10 Japanese models the world has never seen

Have you tried sushi? This traditional Japanese way of eating fish flooded the world like a tsunami just a few years ago. Today there is not a single European capital in which one could not find at least a few sushi restaurants.

In the opinion of many Japanese, sushi simply will not be to the taste of foreigners, but, despite radically different cultures, raw fish is liked not only by Europeans, but also by Americans. Could the same be the case with vehicles intended only for the Japanese market?

Each country that produces cars has its own specific models that it saves only for its market. The first place among these countries in terms of the number of so-called home models is most likely Japan, followed by the United States. 

Autozam AZ-1

Power 64 hp doesn't sound particularly interesting when it comes to a sports car. But if we add a weight of less than 600 kg, a mid-engine, rear-wheel drive, a limited-slip differential and a manual transmission, we have a classic combination that provides driving pleasure. The Autozam AZ-1, manufactured by Mazda, managed to assemble all of this in its 3,3 meter length. This is the weak point of the mini-supercar - inside it is narrow enough for anyone who is taller than 1,70 cm.

toyota century

The Toyota Century is a car that has been driven by the Japanese imperial family since 1967. To date, there are only three generations of Century: the second began in 1997, and the third in 2008. The second generation is interesting for its V12 engine, created after the merger of two six-cylinder engines that Toyota was producing at the time. In the rear seat armrest, in addition to the TV remote located between the front seats, there is also a sound recorder with a microphone and a mini-cassette. About 300 hp The Century isn't exactly fast, but picks up speed at will.

Nissan leopard

In the 1980s and early 1990s, Japan experienced an economic boom that freed automakers from producing ever more luxurious and faster models. Two-door luxury coupes with powerful engines were especially popular. One of the brightest representatives of the 80s is the Nissan Leopard. A 6-inch screen and front bumper-mounted sonar that monitors the road and adjusts the suspension for bumps are just two of the Leopard's technological additions. As an engine, you could choose a three-liter V6 with two turbines and a power of 255 hp.

Daihatsu Midget II

If you've ever complained that your truck isn't maneuvering or parking well, then the Daihatsu Midget is the perfect solution. This mini truck is mainly used by breweries in Japan because the cargo bed is perfect for placing beer kegs. Versions with one or two seats were offered, as well as with all-wheel drive. Yes, there are many similarities with the Piaggio Ape, but the Midget is much less likely to break.

Toyota Caldina GT-T

What happens when you combine an engine and chassis like the Celica GT4 with the body of a discreet Toyota Avensis station wagon? The result is an unexpectedly successful combination of 260 hp, 4x4 Toyota Caldina GT-T. Unfortunately, this model is only intended for the Japanese domestic market, as Toyota justifies it by being too aggressive in appearance for fast van buyers. It may have been true at the turn of the century, but today, against the backdrop of the latest Audi RS4, the Caldina seems even more understated.

Mazda Eunos Cosmo

If you think that the Mercedes CL is one of the first luxury coupes, then you should pay attention to the Mazda Eunos Cosmo. This four-seater is the first vehicle to feature a touchscreen multimedia system with GPS navigation with a map. In addition to an interior filled to the brim with technology, the Eunos Cosmo was also available with a three-rotor engine that produces less than 300 liters and over 300 hp. The rotary engine offers a smoother distribution of power even compared to the V12 engines of European competitors, but on the other hand, it is not inferior to them in terms of traction to gasoline.

Nissan president

The second generation Nissan President is closest to the Jaguar XJ in terms of performance, but has a much lower chance of failure. The 4,5-liter V8 under the hood of the President develops 280 hp. Enough for the early 90s to get out of any situation. The President is the first car to feature a rear leg airbag, which Japanese CEOs especially like. The downside of the President is that the comfort-tuned suspension can't match the precision of a BMW 7 Series, for example.

Suzuki hustler

After World War II, Japan needed to mobilize its impoverished population, and to do this, a special class of cars was created that enjoyed tax breaks and free parking. The so-called "Kay" car class, which are still super popular in Japan. One of its brightest representatives is Suzuki Hustler. This mini carrier is sure to cheer up everyone on the street who sees his happy face. Despite its small size, the Hustler can also be converted into a lounger by converting the seats into a bed for two.

Subaru Forester STI

Although Subaru offers almost its entire range worldwide, there are still models that are only for the domestic market. One of them is the Subaru Forester STI and probably the most versatile model with the STI designation. The combination of ample space for passengers and luggage, decent ground clearance and an explosive engine with a pleasant sound and more than 250 hp. sounds irresistible, which is why many Forester STI models are bought in Japan for export.

Toyota Vellfire

The narrow streets and even tighter parking lots in Japan are the reason their vans are so boxy. One of the advantages of this shape is the spaciousness in the interior, so these vans continue to be popular with buyers in Japan. Inside, you'll find all the extras found in the latest S-Class, and even the mysterious yakuza bosses now prefer the throne-shaped rear seats in the Vellfire limousines they drove until the turn of the century.