When one thinks of Japanese cars, the mind often conjures iconic images of speed, precision, and innovative design. The nation has created so many notable cars that singling out just one to represent the country might be impossible. Nevertheless, that’s your challenge in today’s QOTD.
The Mazda 787B deserves some attention as the very first Japanese car to ever win the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It also happens to remain the only rotary-powered car to win the famed race. The wild noise it makes, that wacky engine, and its winning performance all give it serious historical gravitas.
However, pondering this achievement might be a pursuit reserved for the most dedicated enthusiasts. Japan has built a reputation for itself with a wide range of practical models, from the sturdy Toyota Hilux to everyday favorites like the Honda Civic, Accord, Toyota Corolla, Camry, Suzuki Swift, Mitsubishi Lancer, and the list goes on and on.
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If you’re geared more towards performance cars, a more notable option is the Toyota Supra. Its fourth generation is still lauded as a proper halo car. It combines great exterior design, a wildly robust power plant, and advanced technology to make it both great to look at and great to drive. Who can forget its iconic roles in multiple Fast and Furious films?
Beyond the Supra, other popular Japanese cars often come to mind. The Mazda RX-7, known for its rotary engine and agile handling, has left an enduring legacy in sports car history. While the FD version will likely get the majority of the votes, we think that each generation deserves some credit for where the RX-7 ended up. There’s also the iconic Mitsubishi Lancer EVO series and who can forget the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
The Nissan GT-R, with its cutting-edge technology and dominating performances on the track, is another Japanese automotive gem that captures attention. It too has multiple generations to consider that are all iconic but the R34 will likely end up getting the victory here we bet.
All of this is to say that Japanese automakers have consistently produced vehicles that blend reliability with innovation. From the iconic Honda / Acura NSX to the Prius and the Isuzu VehiCross, Japan has gifted the world with a diverse range of automobiles that cater to various tastes and preferences. The question then is, which singular vehicle comes to mind when you think of the land of the rising sun?
