12 Fastest JDM Sports Cars of All Time

Japan’s automotive industry is renowned for precision and reliability, yet its performance vehicles stand out for their thrilling blend of speed and style.

From street racers to track legends, these turbocharged or naturally aspirated machines, whether AWD or RWD, have captivated enthusiasts worldwide. Adorning posters and dominating races, they’ve redefined performance benchmarks.

Here are 12 of the quickest JDM sports cars ever crafted, vehicles that didn’t just set standards but roared beyond them.

1. Nissan GT-R R35 (2007–Present)

Nicknamed “Godzilla” for good reason, the R35 GT-R is a twin-turbocharged, AWD beast that rewrote the rules of modern performance. Its 3.8L V6 engine produces up to 600 hp in NISMO form, launching it from 0–60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. Top speed? Around 205 mph.

It’s a tech-laden track weapon that still leaves supercars shaking. The R35’s cutting-edge features and raw power make it a favorite among enthusiasts.

2. Toyota Supra MK4 (1993–2002)

The MK4 Supra earned its iconic status with the 2JZ-GTE inline-six, hitting 0–60 mph in 4.6 seconds and topping out near 155 mph stock. Tuners push it beyond 1,000 hp with ease.

Immortalized by Fast & Furious, it remains a symbol of speed and swagger in car culture.

3. Honda NSX (1990–2005)

Honda’s mid-engine masterpiece combined Italian styling with Japanese precision. The NSX’s 3.0L (later 3.2L) V6 made around 290 hp, launching it to 60 mph in about 5 seconds.

It was the lightweight aluminum body and F1-inspired handling that made it feel faster. Even Ayrton Senna helped tune it. A true driver’s car with timeless appeal.

4. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR (2005–2007)

The Evo IX MR, a rally-bred icon, featured a 2.0L turbo inline-four with 286 hp and AWD with an active center differential. It sprinted to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

Its razor-sharp handling and relentless traction made it a versatile legend on any surface.

5. Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 (1999–2002)

The R34 GT-R is a holy grail among JDM fans, thanks to its RB26DETT twin-turbo inline-six and cutting-edge ATTESA E-TS AWD system. With a top speed around 165 mph and 0–60 in 4.9 seconds, it was fast.

But it was also precise. Featured in Gran Turismo and Fast & Furious, it became the dream car of a generation.

6. Subaru Impreza WRX STI (2004–2007 “Blobeye” & “Hawkeye”)

Born from rally glory, the WRX STI’s 2.5L turbocharged flat-four made 300 hp and sent it to all four wheels via a six-speed manual. It could hit 60 mph in just under 5 seconds.

But its real strength was relentless grip on twisty back roads. With a wing large enough to launch a drone, it was both outrageous and capable.

7. Mazda RX-7 FD3S (1992–2002)

The FD RX-7, with its sleek design and twin-rotor rotary engine, delivered 276 hp under Japan’s power cap. Its lightweight chassis hit 0–60 mph in 5.3 seconds.

Perfectly balanced, it excelled in corners, remaining a tuner’s delight with enduring appeal.

8. Lexus LFA (2010–2012)

Built with aerospace-level precision and priced like an exotic, the LFA featured a 552 hp 4.8L V10 that could scream to 9,000 rpm. 0–60 mph took just 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 202 mph.

But numbers don’t do it justice. The sound alone was enough to give goosebumps. Only 500 were made, making it a coveted JDM beast.

9. Toyota GR Supra (A90, 2020–Present)

While co-developed with BMW, the A90 Supra still carries JDM blood in its aggressive stance. Its turbocharged inline-six delivers 382 hp, getting it to 60 mph in around 3.9 seconds.

It’s a new-age Supra with old-school respect. Whether you love or hate the collaboration, you can’t deny it’s quick and packs a punch.

10. Honda Civic Type R (FK8, 2017–2021)

The FK8 Civic Type R, a front-wheel-drive hot hatch, defies norms with a 306 hp turbo 2.0L engine and a Nürburgring-tuned chassis. It hits 60 mph in under 5 seconds.

Sharp and practical, it proves AWD isn’t essential for monstrous performance.

11. Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB Mazdaspeed, 2004–2005)

While the Miata isn’t known for straight-line speed, the Mazdaspeed edition gave it turbocharged bite. With 178 hp and a featherweight chassis, it could do 0–60 in about 6.7 seconds.

Not supercar fast, but serious fun in the corners. What it lacked in raw power, it made up for in driver connection. It’s the essence of lightweight simplicity.

12. Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z32, 1990–1996)

The twin-turbo Z32 was a ’90s powerhouse, boasting 300 hp from a 3.0L V6 and a slick 5-speed manual. 0–60 mph came in around 5 seconds, with a top speed limited to 155 mph.

It blended luxury, performance, and advanced tech like four-wheel steering. A perfect grand tourer with serious speed credentials and timeless design.