Japanese rally car have a rich history in motorsport.
Manufacturers like Subaru and Mitsubishi have produced iconic rally cars, such as the Subaru Impreza WRX and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution.
These cars are known for their all-wheel-drive systems, turbocharged engines, and rally successes.
Rally racing in Japan is popular, and the country has also hosted events like the Rally Japan. These cars have gained a global following among motorsport enthusiasts for their performance and reliability.
The Japanese battled fiercely for 1990s Group A supremacy. Subaru won three straight manufacturer’s crowns from 1995-1997 with the Impreza WRX thanks to rally-bred boxer engines and symmetrical all-wheel drive. Drivers Colin McRae and Tommi Mäkinen pushed the Subarus to the limit.
For Japanese car enthusiasts on a budget in the early 1970s, the Datsun 1800 SSS delivered legitimate sports car thrills without the often unreachable price tag. Produced from 1970-1972, the rear-wheel drive 1800 SSS disproved the notion that sports cars had to be expensive and impractical. With its rev-happy 1.8 liter engine, finely tuned suspension,…
The Nissan 200SX sports coupe carved out a niche emphasizing style, customization, and value across three generations spanning two decades. While affordably priced, intelligent engineering made the 200SX a favorite among driving enthusiasts worldwide. Let’s explore the 200SX formula through the years. Nissan 200SX S12 Debuts the Concept Nissan established the 200SX formula in 1975…
Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 sedan stood apart in 1990s lineup thanks to its potent turbo powerplant and advanced all-wheel drive system. Developed for domination, the VR-4 opened new possibilities for family sports sedans. Let’s examine this icon of Japanese sports sedans. World Rally Inspired Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 Development Mitsubishi drew from its motorsport programs when developing…
Marlboro Rally Car – During motorsport’s tobacco sponsorship era, cigarette brand Marlboro backed some of the world’s most successful rally cars. Vivid red and white Marlboro livery became synonymous with rally racing across teams like Toyota, Peugeot, Mitsubishi, and Audi campaigning Marlboro-branded machines to victory. Group B Supercars Marlboro sponsorship soared most prominently in the…
Subaru Forester JDM carved out an impressive niche in Japan as the country’s go-to adventure mobile thanks to standard all-wheel drive, a comfortable cabin, and solid capability. JDM versions pushed the envelope further to create a cult classic. Let’s explore the Forester’s significance in Japanese car culture. Subaru Forester JDM – All-Wheel Drive Goes Mainstream…
The Mazda Protege JDM entered the 1990s import tuner scene with an aftermarket-friendly chassis and affordable price. While a econobox overseas, JDM versions unlocked the Protege’s full potential with turbo engines, a rally pedigree, and advanced suspension. Let’s explore the Protege’s march to tuner stardom. Mazda Protege JDM Proving Ground in Rally Racing Like rival…
Toyota JDM truck and SUV developed specifically for Japan occupy a special place in enthusiasts’ hearts. Robust models like the Hilux, Land Cruiser, and Dyna highlight Toyota’s engineering at its toughest. Let’s examine the trucks that conquered Japan’s demanding commercial duties and wilderness expeditions. Toyota Hilux – Legendary Light Toyota JDM truck Debuting in…
Subaru’s unique horizontally opposed “boxer” engines hold an esteemed position among JDM enthusiasts. Models tuned specially for Japan produce cult-favorite powerplants combining the boxer’s innate torque, smoothness and sound with extreme output. Let’s spotlight the most legendary JDM-only Subaru engines. EJ20G/EJ20K – The Impreza WRX STI Beating Heart The turbocharged 2.0-liter EJ20 defined Subaru’s rally…