Top Five Most Desirable High-Performance Japanese Cars
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Apr 3
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The Best 90s JDM Convertibles You Can Buy Today
The 1990s were a golden era for Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars, with manufacturers delivering some of the most iconic and beloved vehicles in automotive history. It was a time when innovation met driving passion, giving birth to machines that still stir the souls of car enthusiasts decades later. Among these, convertibles hold a special place. They offered not just performance, but the unmatched thrill of open-air driving. If you’ve ever dreamt of cruising with the top down and wind in your hair, here are some of the best 90s JDM convertibles that you can still own today.
1. Mazda MX-5 (NA)
Known domestically in Japan as the Eunos Roadster, the first-generation Mazda MX-5 isn’t just a car—it’s a statement. Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, and refreshingly simple, the NA MX-5 brought back the pure joy of motoring at a time when cars were getting increasingly complicated. Under the hood, you could choose between a peppy 1.6L or slightly torquier 1.8L inline-four engine. While not massive in power, its 50:50 weight distribution and featherlight chassis make it an absolute blast on twisty roads.But it’s not just about performance. The pop-up headlights, the compact silhouette, and the no-frills interior all ooze 90s charm. Reliability? Nearly bulletproof. Affordability? Still one of the best bang-for-buck classics out there. If you’re looking for a car that feels alive in your hands, the NA MX-5 is a love letter to the art of driving.
2. Honda S2000
Although it rolled off the production line in 1999, the Honda S2000 feels like it belongs to a different realm. This car was Honda flexing its engineering muscles in the best way possible. At the heart of the S2000 is the legendary 2.0L F20C engine, which revs to a screaming 9,000 RPM and delivers 240 horsepower—all without forced induction. It’s one of the most exhilarating naturally aspirated engines ever made.Matched with a close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox and razor-sharp handling, the S2000 offers an experience that’s raw, precise, and incredibly rewarding. Its sleek, elongated body and cockpit-style interior feel futuristic, even by today’s standards. While it’s on the edge of the 90s timeline, its impact on the JDM scene is undeniable—and it’s a modern classic that continues to climb in value and demand.
3. Toyota MR2 Spyder
Officially called the MR-S in Japan, the third-generation Toyota MR2 Spyder took a bold step forward from its predecessors. It swapped the wedge-shaped body for a more curvy and modern design, and, most importantly, embraced a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout—a configuration typically reserved for high-end sports cars.What this meant was perfect weight balance, quick reflexes, and an uncanny ability to carve corners with precision. Powered by a zippy 1.8L inline-four engine, it’s not going to win drag races, but on tight back roads, it’s a pure delight. Plus, its affordable price point makes it a go-to for enthusiasts looking to get the feel of a mid-engine sports car without breaking the bank. It’s fun, it’s agile, and it’s packed with personality.
4. Nissan Figaro
The Nissan Figaro is like something straight out of a vintage postcard. Originally built as a limited-run, retro-inspired car for the Japanese market, it quickly developed a cult following worldwide. Its soft, rounded lines and pastel paint colors evoke the spirit of 1960s European motoring, while hiding the reliable tech of a 90s Japanese machine underneath.Don’t expect high-speed thrills—its 1.0L turbocharged engine is more about smooth cruising than hard acceleration. But that’s not the point of the Figaro. It’s about enjoying the ride, waving at pedestrians who can’t help but smile, and turning heads wherever you go. With only about 20,000 units ever produced, owning a Figaro is as much a fashion statement as it is a driving choice.
5. Mazda RX-7 Convertible (FC)
If you’re after something with a bit more bite, the Mazda RX-7 FC Convertible brings a wilder energy to the mix. This version of the RX-7 features the legendary rotary engine—specifically, the 13B rotary—that delivers smooth, high-revving power in a way that’s totally unique in the car world. It’s light, sleek, and offers a visceral driving experience that few cars can match.The convertible version of the FC RX-7 adds another layer of enjoyment, letting you soak in the sun while listening to the rotary engine sing. These are relatively rare compared to the coupe models, making them even more desirable for collectors. If you’re looking for a car that combines oddball engineering with timeless style, the RX-7 Convertible checks all the boxes.Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing the adrenaline of a rear-wheel-drive roadster or simply want to relive a nostalgic era of top-down motoring, these 90s JDM convertibles offer something truly special. They represent a time when cars were designed with heart, soul, and a focus on driving joy. Today, they’re not just vehicles—they’re rolling time capsules of a golden era. If you’re in the market for a classic with style, spirit, and a touch of open-air magic, these JDM legends deserve a spot on your radar.
