Unearthing JDM Gems: 10 Forgotten Japanese Coupes and Roadsters Primed for Tuner Glory

Alright, gearheads, let’s talk about the absolute goldmine that is lurking in the shadows of automotive history. We’re not just talking about any old cars here; we’re diving deep into the often-overlooked, yet utterly fascinating, world of forgotten Japanese coupes and roadsters. For the discerning tuner hobbyist, these aren’t just relics; they’re blank canvases waiting for a visionary touch, offering a unique blend of heritage, distinctive engineering, and undeniable cool factor that’ll set your project apart from the usual suspects. If you’re tired of seeing the same builds everywhere, then buckle up, because we’re about to show you where the real treasures are hidden.

Japan’s automotive landscape has always been a hotbed of innovation, often pushing boundaries with designs and engineering solutions that were far ahead of their time, or delightfully eccentric. However, many of these brilliant machines, especially those primarily focused on the domestic market or sold in limited numbers, never quite got the global recognition they deserved. This means that today, with the advent of import laws and a growing appreciation for niche JDM culture, a whole new frontier of potential builds has opened up, especially for those looking to craft something truly special and performance-oriented.

So, what makes these particular forgotten Japanese coupes and roadsters so special for tuner hobbyists? It’s simple: they combine rarity with a solid foundation. Whether it’s a lightweight chassis, a unique engine, or a captivating design, each of these vehicles offers a distinctive starting point that lends itself beautifully to customization and performance upgrades. Forget the run-of-the-mill, and prepare to be inspired by these ten incredible machines that are practically begging for a second life on the streets, on the track, or as the undisputed star of your next car show. Let’s unearth some future legends!

1. **Isuzu 117 Coupe**When you think of classic Japanese sports coupes, Isuzu might not be the first name that springs to mind, and that, my friends, is precisely why the 117 Coupe is such a phenomenal find for a tuner hobbyist. This isn’t just a car; it’s a testament to audacious design and early Japanese ambition, a machine that, as the context so eloquently puts it, “was never offered on the American market, which is a shame.” Indeed, it’s a crying shame because this “gorgeous” piece of automotive art has all the ingredients for a truly bespoke build.

Isuzu, in a bold move, decided they needed a “halo car to turn the industry’s attention to Isuzu and present them in the best possible light.” And boy, did they deliver. They took an “existing passenger car rear-wheel drive platform with a 1.6- and 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine,” a solid foundation if ever there was one for a tuner, and then did something truly inspired: they went straight to Italy. Not for an engine, not for a chassis, but for a “fashionable suit,” commissioning the legendary designer Giorgetto Giugiaro. The result? “An elegant, cool-looking coupe design” that still turns heads today.

This isn’t just about looks, though that stunning Giugiaro design is certainly a huge part of its appeal. The fact that it’s a rear-wheel-drive platform from the get-go makes it incredibly appealing for performance modifications. While its production run from “1968 until 1981” meant it was “sold in reasonably large numbers” domestically, its absence from major export markets makes it a rare bird elsewhere. For a tuner, this means you’re getting a unique canvas with classic RWD dynamics, ready for engine swaps, suspension upgrades, and a performance transformation that honors its elegant roots while unleashing its hidden potential.

Imagine a modern, high-revving engine nestled in that sleek bay, hooked up to a finely tuned suspension, all wrapped in that timeless Italian-Japanese design. The Isuzu 117 Coupe is more than just a forgotten classic; it’s an opportunity to create a truly one-of-a-kind tuner masterpiece, combining classic aesthetics with contemporary performance. It’s an influential model that deserves a second act, and a skilled tuner is exactly the person to give it one.

Car Model Information: 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation
Caption: 1968–1973 Isuzu 117 Coupé
Name: Isuzu 117 Coupé (PA)
Manufacturer: Isuzu
Production: 1968–1981
Assembly: Kawasaki, Kanagawa
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Successor: Isuzu Piazza
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupé
Engine: unbulleted list
Transmission: unbulleted list
Related: Isuzu Florian
Designer: Giorgetto Giugiaro
Length: unbulleted list
Abbr: on
Width: 1600 mm
Height: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: 2500 mm
Weight: unbulleted list
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles with short description, CS1 Japanese-language sources (ja)
Summary: The Isuzu 117 Coupé is a compact Gran Turismo type 2-door fastback coupé which was produced by the Japanese automobile manufacturer Isuzu between 1968 and 1981. 117 was the codename for a common development program of Isuzu mid-size cars, involving a coupé, sedan, and station wagon. The latter two eventually became the Isuzu Florian, but the coupé kept the original name. The two ranges shared mechanicals, including the complete FR layout chassis with recirculating ball steering. The 117 Coupé was styled by the famous Giorgetto Giugiaro, being one of the first Japanese cars designed by an Italian stylist. It was among the first Japanese cars with a DOHC engine, and the first with electronic fuel injection. The 117 can be regarded as the world’s first sports car to be available with a diesel engine. It was quite an exclusive vehicle during its lifetime, and is a rare collectible now, but thanks to its unusually long lifecycle, Isuzu manufactured 86,192 units. The 117 Coupé was replaced by the Isuzu Piazza in the Isuzu lineup.

Get more information about: Isuzu 117 Coupé

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Isuzu Model: 117 Coupe
Price: $41,993 Mileage: 13,205 mi.

2. **Honda S600/S800 Roadster**Before Honda became synonymous with VTEC and wildly popular Civics, they were carving their path in the automotive world, driven by an ambition to move beyond motorcycles. And what a way to start! The Honda S600 and its more potent sibling, the S800, are definitive proof that Honda’s passion for lightweight, high-performance machines runs deep, right to their earliest days of car production. These aren’t just “cute little roadsters;” they’re engineering marvels that practically scream for a tuner’s attention.

Introduced in “1964, the S600 was a two-seater convertible with extremely compact dimensions, light weight,” and a spirit that belied its size. Powered by a tiny “600cc engine” making “57 HP,” it wasn’t about raw power, but about the purity of the driving experience. Crucially, it weighed a mere “1500 pounds,” a figure that immediately catches the eye of any tuner looking to build a nimble, agile machine. Less weight means less power needed to go fast, and more importantly, incredibly responsive handling.

But here’s where it gets truly fascinating for the technically-minded enthusiast: the S600 had a “chain drive, a primitive drivetrain system from motorcycle production.” This isn’t just a historical footnote; it’s a direct link to Honda’s roots and an engineering quirk that makes these cars utterly unique. While a chain drive might sound old-school, for a tuner, it represents a conversation starter, a challenge, and an opportunity to explore unusual power delivery systems or upgrade it in creative ways. It’s a raw, mechanical connection to the road that modern cars rarely offer.

The evolution to the “S800 in 1967” brought an “upgraded and more powerful version with a bigger 800 cc engine and 70 HP,” and the option of a coupe body style, further expanding the possibilities. For a tuner, the S600/S800 roadsters are a dream. Imagine these featherlight chassis, already boasting incredible balance, with modern suspension components, brake upgrades, and a highly tuned engine (or even a creative engine swap that maintains the lightweight ethos). These cars are all about spirited driving, and with a bit of tuning magic, they can punch far above their weight class, delivering an exhilarating experience that few other machines can match.

3. **Nissan Silvia CSP 311**When the name Silvia comes up, most of you are probably thinking of the late ’90s S14s and S15s – the definitive drift machines, right? Iconic cars, no doubt. But for the truly deep-diving enthusiast, the Silvia lineage traces back much, much further, to a car that laid the groundwork for Nissan’s future sports car dominance: the Silvia CSP 311. This isn’t just an ancestor; it’s a foundational piece of Nissan’s performance puzzle, and an absolute stunner of a project car for anyone looking to build something with serious historical cachet and undeniable style.

Dubbed “one of the first modern and proper sports cars from this brand,” the Silvia CSP 311 made its grand entrance in “1964 at the Tokyo Motor Show.” And what an entrance it must have been! The context highlights its “European looks and proportions,” a clear signal that Nissan wasn’t just building cars; they were building aspirational, stylish machines designed to compete on a global aesthetic stage. It was a “luxurious (for the Japanese standards of the times) sports coupe with rear-wheel drive” – and those three words, ‘rear-wheel drive,’ should be ringing like a bell in every tuner’s mind.

Underneath that elegant skin lay a “1.6-liter four-cylinder with 96 HP,” which, in its day, delivered “decent performance.” Now, 96 horsepower might not sound like much in our modern era of hyper-tuned engines, but this is exactly where the tuner hobbyist comes in. This is a robust, simple, and inherently balanced rear-wheel-drive platform, ripe for intelligent modification. Think about how a modern, compact, turbocharged engine could transform this car, or how finely tuned suspension geometry could elevate its handling to contemporary standards, all while retaining its exquisite vintage charm.

For a tuner, the CSP 311 offers an incredibly rare opportunity to own and customize a piece of Nissan history that most enthusiasts don’t even know exists. You get the prestige of the Silvia name, the timeless beauty of its design, and the raw, engaging mechanics of a classic RWD sports coupe. It’s a car that screams for a restomod treatment – preserving its iconic looks while injecting it with thoroughly modern performance. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, a nod to history, and a future legend waiting to be reborn by the right hands.

Car Model Information: 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation
Name: Nissan Silvia
Caption: Nissan Silvia Autech Version (S15, Japan)
Manufacturer: Nissan
Production: unbulleted list
Class: Sports car
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, All articles needing additional references
Summary: The Nissan Silvia (Japanese: 日産・シルビア, Hepburn: Nissan Shirubia) is the series of small sports cars produced by Nissan. Versions of the Silvia have been marketed as the 200SX or 240SX for export, with some export versions being sold under the Datsun brand. The Gazelle was the twin-model of Silvia sold in Japan at different dealerships for the S110 and S12 generations; the Gazelle name was also used in Australia for the S12 generation. For the S13 generation in Japan, the Gazelle was replaced with the 180SX, which was a hatchback model of the Silvia with pop-up headlights that was also sold as the 200SX and 240SX for export purposes.

Get more information about: Nissan Silvia

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Nissan Model: Silvia CSP 311
Price: $41,993 Mileage: 13,205 mi.

4. **Mazda RX-3 Coupe**Alright, rotary fanatics, listen up! While Mazda’s Wankel engine often carries a reputation for “problematic durability, and unusual driving dynamics,” for a certain breed of tuner, that’s not a bug – it’s a feature. The unique exhaust note, the high-revving nature, and the sheer distinctiveness of a rotary engine make it a cult favorite, and the “small but lively RX-3 Coupe” from the early ’70s is a prime candidate for an exhilarating rotary-powered project car that will absolutely stand out from the crowd.

The RX-3 wasn’t just about the engine, though. It was a “nicely styled fastback coupe with modern design cues,” offering a sleek, compact profile that still looks sharp today. It was a smaller, more agile alternative to the muscle cars of the era, and its design laid some groundwork for Mazda’s future sporty offerings. But let’s be honest, the star of the show was always under the hood: “a two-rotor, 1.1-liter Wankel unit with 91 HP.”

Now, here’s a crucial detail for tuners with a keen eye for potential: the domestic market’s “91 HP” was a victim of “domestic emissions regulations choked this little Rotary motor.” Foreign markets, by contrast, “got the same engine with 115 HP.” This immediately signals a clear pathway for performance enhancement: uncorking that choked engine! A proper rebuild, modern intake and exhaust, and a skilled rotary tune could easily see those horsepower figures climb, transforming the already “lively performance” into something truly thrilling.

Beyond the engine, the RX-3’s lightweight platform (inherent to many early Japanese compacts) makes it a fantastic chassis for suspension and braking upgrades. Imagine an RX-3 with a properly ported rotary, upgraded turbo (if you want to get serious!), a sorted suspension, and sticky tires. This car isn’t about brute force; it’s about surgical precision, high-revving excitement, and that unmistakable rotary scream. For the tuner who appreciates engineering distinctiveness and a spirited driving experience, the Mazda RX-3 Coupe is more than just a car; it’s an invitation to join an exclusive club of Wankel enthusiasts, crafting a vehicle that’s as much a sonic experience as it is a performance machine.

Car Model Information: 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation
Name: Mazda Grand Familia
Caption: Mazda Grand Familia Coupé
Manufacturer: Mazda
Aka: Mazda Savanna
Production: 1971–1978
Assembly: Hiroshima (Mazda factory),Hiroshima,Japan,Hwaseong, Gyeonggi,South Korea
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Related: Mazda Familia
Engine: Mazda C engine#TC,Straight-four engine
Wheelbase: 2310 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4075 mm
Width: 1595 mm
Height: 1375 mm
Weight: 930 kg
Predecessor: Mazda R100
Successor: Mazda RX-7
Categories: Articles containing Japanese-language text, Articles with short description, CS1 Indonesian-language sources (id), CS1 Japanese-language sources (ja), CS1 Korean-language sources (ko)
Summary: The Mazda Grand Familia (Japanese: マツダ・グランドファミリア, Matsuda Gurando Famiria) is an automobile which was produced by Mazda in Japan from 1971 to 1978. It was sold as the Mazda 808 in some export markets including Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, and as the Mazda 818 in many others – this was mostly due to Peugeot having trademarked three-digit numbers with a middle zero in many markets. The body style configurations offered were a two-door coupé, a four-door sedan, and a five-door station wagon. The Grand Familia offered only inline four cylinder engines. The largely identical rotary-powered versions were marketed as the Mazda Savanna (マツダ・サバンナ, Matsuda Sabanna) in Japan, with export markets taking this model as the Mazda RX-3. The Grand Familia/Savanna were originally intended to replace the smaller Mazda Familia to better compete with the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sunny, and Mitsubishi Colt. With the onset of the 1970s energy crisis however, the Familia sold better due to its fuel economy. Since Mazda had already developed the Grand Familia/Savanna, it was sold globally as a somewhat larger, more upscale alternative to the Familia/1000/1300 and in North America it was Mazda’s smallest offering.

Get more information about: Mazda Grand Familia

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Mazda Model: RX-3 Coupe
Price: $41,993 Mileage: 13,205 mi.

5. **Autozam AZ-1**Okay, prepare yourselves, because if you’ve never heard of the Autozam AZ-1, you’re about to discover what some consider the holy grail of Kei cars – a machine so unique, so utterly bizarre, and yet so brilliantly engineered, that it practically redefines what a compact sports car can be. For the tuner hobbyist looking for an undisputed showstopper that drives as wildly as it looks, the AZ-1 is a non-negotiable addition to your must-import list. This isn’t just small; it’s epic, pint-sized performance.

“If you don’t know what this is, nobody could blame you.” That line from the context says it all. This “tiny sports car” was a collaborative effort, “built by Mazda and sold by Suzuki in limited numbers from 1992 to 1995,” with “fewer than 5000” ever made. This rarity alone makes it a prized possession, but it’s the package that truly captivates. We’re talking about a “turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 660 cc and 64 hp.” Yes, you read that right, 64 horsepower. But here’s the kicker: it weighs a mere “1500 pounds” and boasts a “perfect chassis.”

This isn’t just some novelty car; the context boldly states, “some consider it the only supercar in the Kei Car segment.” That’s not hyperbole for a car this size. What sets it apart immediately are those jaw-dropping “gullwing doors” – yes, *gullwing doors* on a Kei car! This car screams exotic, yet it’s wrapped in a package that’s barely bigger than a go-kart. Its “bizarre styling but lively driving dynamics give the driver a unique driving experience,” an experience that tuners can amplify to stratospheric levels.

The AZ-1’s “perfect chassis” is the ultimate playground. With such a lightweight and balanced foundation, performance gains from engine tuning, suspension modifications, and tire upgrades are massively impactful. Imagine squeezing every last pony out of that turbocharged three-cylinder, or even considering a truly wild engine swap to create a pocket rocket that would embarrass cars ten times its size. The fact that it “was never officially sold outside of Japan” but “you can now import it in the USA since it is older than 25 years” means the time is now to snap up one of these “little gem[s].” For maximum impact, maximum fun, and a truly unique build, the Autozam AZ-1 is simply unmatched.

Alright, gearheads, if you thought the first batch of forgotten Japanese gems was exciting, prepare yourselves for the next wave of mechanical marvels! We’re diving even deeper into the obscure, the eccentric, and the downright brilliant, uncovering compact wonders and truly bizarre icons that are absolutely begging for a tuner’s touch. These aren’t just cars; they’re canvases for creativity, offering unique driving dynamics and undeniable cool factor that will make your next project truly legendary.

6. **Mitsuoka Orochi**Hold onto your lug nuts, because if you’re looking for a project car that utterly defies convention and guarantees a double-take at every corner, the Mitsuoka Orochi is your ticket to automotive eccentricity. This isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, a rolling sculpture that some describe as a “dragon-like creature from somebody’s worst nightmares,” yet it’s a regular production model from Japan, sporting those incredible “Lambo doors” and a truly “controversial design.” For the tuner with a taste for the utterly bizarre and unique, the Orochi is a magnet for attention.

What’s hiding beneath that wild exterior? Well, this groovy-looking two-seater comes with an intriguing pedigree. It’s “based on the Honda NSX platform,” a solid foundation if ever there was one for dynamic performance. Powering this beast is “Toyota’s 3.3-liter V6 engine with 240 HP.” Now, 240 horsepower might not scream ‘supercar’ in today’s world of thousand-horsepower monsters, but the Orochi is “light and nimble,” meaning its “performance is satisfying, to say the least.” This blend of Honda chassis and Toyota power offers a unique starting point for performance enhancements, allowing a tuner to really push the boundaries.

The Orochi’s mystique is only deepened by its exclusivity. This was a machine “never intended to be sold outside of Japan or selected Asian markets, especially not in the USA.” Furthermore, it was “only made in right-hand configuration,” and Mitsuoka themselves were “not interested in foreign buyers.” This means that for a US tuner, acquiring one is a genuine quest, but the reward is unparalleled: an imported, right-hand-drive masterpiece that ensures absolute exclusivity. Imagine showing up to a car meet in a bespoke Orochi, a truly one-of-a-kind creation that will stand head and shoulders above anything else.

For the visionary tuner, the Orochi isn’t just a car to modify; it’s a concept to refine. The solid underpinnings and robust Toyota V6 are ripe for forced induction, ECU tuning, and a host of suspension upgrades that could transform its already satisfying performance into something truly visceral. This isn’t about blending in; it’s about standing out, and with the Orochi, you’re not just building a car, you’re crafting an automotive legend that challenges every notion of what a sports car should be.

7. **Suzuki Cappuccino**Alright, Kei car connoisseurs, prepare to get excited because the Suzuki Cappuccino is here to remind everyone that some of the biggest thrills come in the smallest packages! If you thought the Mazda Miata was the smallest Japanese convertible, think again – this delightful little roadster is “almost half the size,” making it an absolute featherweight champion in the world of fun-to-drive machines. Crafted “out of aluminum with rear wheel drive,” it’s a perfectly engineered pocket rocket designed for pure driving enjoyment, even if the “cramped interior, and a small trunk” mean you’re not taking much with you.

Under its impossibly petite hood lies a “670 cc three-cylinder unit” churning out “64 hp.” Now, before you scoff at the numbers, remember the golden rule: weight is the enemy of performance. The Cappuccino weighs a mere “1400 pounds,” and with that kind of power-to-weight ratio, it boasts “lively performance and unbelievable driving dynamics.” This little engine “likes to rev,” promising an engaging, high-strung experience that’s all about momentum and cornering precision rather than brute force. For tuners, this is an open invitation to create a razor-sharp, agile machine that can embarrass much larger, more powerful cars on a twisty road.

The exclusivity of the Cappuccino adds another layer of appeal for the discerning tuner. It was “produced in right-hand-drive configuration only and sold in selected markets in Asia and Europe,” making it “quite a rare car with a total production of around 28,000 examples.” The good news? The context tells us that while “prices are not high, but they will gain value when US enthusiasts buy them,” meaning now is the perfect time to snap up one of these future classics. Imagine the pride of owning a uniquely Japanese, RHD micro-convertible that few others possess.

For the tuner hobbyist, the Cappuccino is a dream platform. Its lightweight aluminum construction provides an excellent base for serious weight reduction and structural enhancements. The spirited three-cylinder engine is highly responsive to tuning, with forced induction upgrades or even a clever, lightweight engine swap transforming it into an absolute ballistic missile. Combine that with a thoroughly modern suspension setup and sticky tires, and you’ve got a track-day hero or a stunning, one-off street build that’s guaranteed to put a massive smile on your face every time you drive it.

8. **Honda S660**Prepare to meet the “shrunken NSX,” a title that immediately tells you everything you need to know about the Honda S660’s aspirations and engineering pedigree. The similarities aren’t just superficial; like its legendary older sibling, this tiny powerhouse features a “mid-mounted engine with just three cylinders, 660 cc, and a turbocharger.” The result? A modest “63 HP” but, more importantly, “practically ideal handling.” This isn’t a car designed for straight-line speed; it’s engineered for surgical precision and an intimate connection with the road, qualities any serious tuner can appreciate.

Honda understood that driving engagement is paramount, offering the S660 with a choice of a “6-speed manual or 7-speed CVT automatic.” And despite its seemingly humble power figures, its driving prowess is undeniable. A Japanese journalist, in what can only be described as a glowing endorsement, “declared it one of the best-driving Kei Cars currently on sale.” That’s high praise indeed, confirming that the S660 delivers a genuinely exhilarating experience, making it a perfect foundation for a tuner looking to refine an already exceptional chassis.

The S660’s mid-engine layout and inherent “ideal handling” are absolute gold for a tuner. This platform is crying out for meticulous suspension tuning, lightweight wheel and tire combinations, and perhaps even chassis stiffening to enhance its already impressive agility. While the 63 horsepower might seem restrictive, the turbocharged engine is a prime candidate for performance upgrades. ECU tunes, larger turbochargers, and improved intake/exhaust systems can unlock significant power gains, transforming the S660 into a true pocket rocket without sacrificing its legendary balance.

This car allows for a sophisticated, driver-focused build that exemplifies precision engineering. Imagine a meticulously set-up S660, every component optimized for track performance or spirited mountain drives. It’s more than just a Kei car; it’s a distillation of Honda’s performance philosophy, offering an exotic, mid-engine sports car feel in a wonderfully compact and accessible package. For tuners who prioritize balance, responsiveness, and a truly immersive driving experience, the S660 is an unparalleled canvas, ready to be sculpted into a miniature masterpiece.

9. **Daihatsu Copen**When we talk about Kei cars, Daihatsu is often at the forefront, recognized as one of the “prime manufacturers” with an entire range dedicated to these fascinating small vehicles. Among their offerings, the Copen stands out as their “most interesting model,” a “tiny roadster” that you can visualize as “a Miata, but half the size.” This immediately establishes its appeal for anyone seeking a compact, engaging, and utterly distinctive open-top driving experience, perfect for carving through city streets or winding country roads.

First introduced in the early 2000s, the Copen is now in its second generation, evolving its charming aesthetic and driving dynamics. As expected for a Kei car, it packs a “660 cc engine” under the hood, with power predictably “below the 70 HP mark.” But here’s the crucial detail that makes it a tuner’s delight: the context specifically highlights that “the turbocharged engine is highly tunable.” This means that despite its modest stock power, “this compact roadster can deliver some pretty lively performance” with the right modifications.

The Copen’s “highly tunable” turbocharged engine is its beating heart for any performance enthusiast. Simple ECU re-maps can unlock hidden power, while more aggressive tuners can look to upgraded turbochargers, free-flowing exhaust systems, and improved intercoolers to significantly boost its output. And because it’s so small and light, any increase in power has a disproportionately dramatic effect on its acceleration and overall liveliness. Couple that with its inherently agile chassis, and you have a recipe for serious fun.

Beyond the engine, the Copen’s compact dimensions and lightweight nature make it an exceptional platform for handling upgrades. Swapping in a performance suspension, fitting wider, stickier tires, and enhancing the braking system will transform this tiny roadster into a corner-carving demon. Plus, its unique, often retro-inspired styling, and in some generations, a clever retractable hardtop, give it immense character. For tuners looking for an affordable, customizable, and unique convertible that stands apart from the typical builds, the Daihatsu Copen offers a delightful blend of charm, tunability, and pure driving joy.

10. **Toyota Sports 800**Step back in time to the very genesis of Toyota’s sports car lineage, and you’ll find the Toyota Sports 800, a groundbreaking machine “introduced in 1962.” In an era when “Toyota was a small and totally unknown company,” its ambitions were clear, even if “sales were limited to Asian markets only.” This isn’t just a forgotten car; it’s a foundational piece of automotive history, a testament to Toyota’s early pioneering spirit and a genuinely distinctive project for the tuner who appreciates heritage and lightweight performance.

Underneath its sleek, aerodynamic fastback body, the Sports 800 housed a rather “diminutive 800 cc engine with 45 HP.” Now, 45 horsepower might sound like it belongs on a lawnmower, but here’s the magic: “despite its extremely modest displacement and power, the Sports 800 had some performance credentials since it was extremely light and agile.” This is the quintessential “slow car fast” philosophy, where every ounce of power is savored, and the driving experience is all about momentum, balance, and pure, unadulterated feel.

With “production stopped in 1969 after over 3,100 examples were built,” the Sports 800 is a true rarity, making it a coveted item for collectors and tuners who want something genuinely exclusive. For the discerning hobbyist, this isn’t about shoehorning a massive engine; it’s about meticulously restoring and subtly enhancing a piece of history. Imagine preserving its iconic design while upgrading its suspension, brakes, and potentially a modern, lightweight engine that respects its original ethos, perhaps a finely tuned, small-displacement powerplant that maintains its agile spirit.

This car is an invitation to craft a sophisticated restomod, one that honors Toyota’s first sports car while bringing its dynamics into the modern age. Envision a perfectly balanced chassis, responsive steering, and a high-revving, efficient engine, all wrapped in that timeless design. The Toyota Sports 800 offers a unique opportunity to own a tangible piece of automotive evolution, transforming it into a bespoke machine that showcases both historical reverence and contemporary performance. It’s for the tuner who understands that true cool isn’t always about horsepower; sometimes, it’s about heritage, elegance, and pure, engaging driving.

Car Model Information: 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Elevation
Name: Toyota Sports 800 (UP15)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: April 1965 – October 1969,3,131 produced
Assembly: Yokosuka,Kanagawa Prefecture
Designer: Tatsuo Hasegawa
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Related: Toyota Publica
Engine: Toyota U engine#2U,Flat-twin engine
Powerout: 33 kW
Abbr: on
Transmission: Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2000 mm
Length: 3580 mm
Width: 1465 mm
Height: 1175 mm
Weight: 580 kg
Sp: us
Categories: All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing Japanese-language text, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from June 2009, CS1 Japanese-language sources (ja)
Summary: The Toyota Sports 800 (Japanese: トヨタ・スポーツ800, Hepburn: Toyota Supōtsu Hachihyaku) is Toyota’s first production sports car. The prototype for the Sports 800, called the Publica Sports, debuted at the 1962 Tokyo Auto Show, featuring a space age sliding canopy and utilizing the 21 kW (28 hp; 29 PS) powertrain of the Publica 700, a Japanese market economy car. The Toyota Sports 800 is affectionately called the “Yota-Hachi” (ヨタハチ), which is a Japanese short form for “Toyota 8”. In Japan, the vehicle was exclusive to Toyota Japan retail sales channel called Toyota Publica Store alongside the Publica.

Get more information about: Toyota Sports 800

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Toyota Model: Sports 800
Price: $41,993 Mileage: 13,205 mi.

So there you have it, folks – ten incredible, often-overlooked Japanese coupes and roadsters that are just waiting for the right tuner to unlock their hidden potential. From the elegant lines of the Isuzu 117 Coupe to the mind-bending eccentricity of the Mitsuoka Orochi, and the pure, unadulterated fun of the Kei car trio, these machines offer a rich tapestry of engineering, design, and driving dynamics that go far beyond the usual suspects. If you’re ready to make a statement, to truly stand out from the crowd, and to build something with soul and a story, then start your search now. These aren’t just cars; they’re future legends, and the ultimate reward for the passionate hobbyist looking for their next, truly distinctive project. Happy hunting, and may your wrenches be ever true!