The Best JDM Cars Turning 25 in 2027

The Best JDM Cars Turning 25 in 2027

The 25-year rule is the single most important regulation governing the JDM import market in the United States. Under this federal provision, any motor vehicle that is at least 25 years old is exempt from the safety and emissions standards that would otherwise prevent its importation and registration. Every January, a new model year becomes eligible, and the 2002 class is one of the most significant in JDM history. Here are the cars turning 25 in 2027 that you need to know about.

Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 V-Spec II and V-Spec II Nur

The 2002 model year brings the most anticipated R34 variants: the V-Spec II and the ultra-rare V-Spec II Nur. The standard V-Spec II adds carbon fiber rear diffuser, additional chassis bracing, and refined ATTESA E-TS Pro calibration over the base V-Spec.

The V-Spec II Nur (Nurburgring) is the pinnacle. Limited to approximately 750 units, it features the N1-spec RB26DETT with gold-tinted cam covers, N1 turbos, and additional engine strengthening. The factory rated it at 280 PS like every GT-R, but the N1 engine reliably produces 300-310 PS on stock boost.

Expected US pricing:

• V-Spec II: $150,000-250,000
• V-Spec II Nur: $300,000-500,000+
• M-Spec Nur: $350,000-500,000+

These will be the headline imports of 2027 and the most scrutinized for authenticity. Documentation will be essential -- expect a significant authentication industry to develop around verifying Nur production numbers.

Mazda RX-7 Spirit R (Final Production)

The Spirit R was Mazda's farewell to the FD3S RX-7, and it represented the absolute best the platform could be. Three types were offered: Type A (two-seater, BBS wheels, red Recaro seats), Type B (two-seater, standard seats), and Type C (2+2 with rear seats).

All Spirit Rs received a hand-assembled 13B-REW twin-turbo engine, Bilstein dampers, Type RS-spec Torsen LSD, lightweight battery, and exclusive 17-inch BBS wheels (Type A). Total production was approximately 1,500 units across all types.

The Spirit R is already recognized as the definitive FD RX-7. Type A models, with their distinctive red Recaro seats and BBS wheels, are the most collectible.

Expected US pricing:

• Type A: $100,000-150,000
• Type B: $70,000-100,000
• Type C: $60,000-85,000

Nissan Silvia S15 (Final Year)

The 2002 model year was the last for the Silvia nameplate, ending a lineage that began in 1965. While earlier S15 models (1999-2001) are already import-eligible, the final-year cars carry the emotional weight of being the last Silvias ever produced.

Two variants deserve special attention: the Autech Version, which featured unique bodywork, leather interior, and a more refined character, and the Varietta, a factory-converted convertible that is among the rarest S15 variants.

The standard Spec R with its SR20DET producing 250 PS remains the most popular choice for enthusiasts. The final-year cars are mechanically identical to earlier S15s but command a modest premium among collectors who value the historical significance.

Expected US pricing:

• Spec R: $35,000-55,000
• Spec S: $20,000-35,000
• Autech Version: $40,000-65,000
• Varietta: $45,000-75,000

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII

The Evo VII (CT9A) introduced the third-generation Lancer Evolution platform with several significant improvements over the Evo VI. The Active Yaw Control (AYC) system was upgraded to Super AYC with a more responsive rear differential, the chassis was stiffer, and the interior was substantially improved.

The GT-A variant is particularly interesting -- it featured a five-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, making it one of the few turbocharged AWD Japanese performance sedans available with an automatic. While purists prefer the manual, the GT-A's rarity gives it collector appeal.

The standard Evo VII GSR with the five-speed manual and 280 PS 4G63 remains the enthusiast choice. It offers all the Evo fundamentals at prices well below the Evo VI TME.

Expected US pricing:

• GSR: $30,000-50,000
• RS: $35,000-55,000
• GT-A: $25,000-40,000

Honda Integra Type R DC5 (First Year)

The DC5 Integra Type R arrived in 2001 for the Japanese market and continued through 2006. The 2002 model year represents the earliest DC5 Type Rs entering US import eligibility, bringing one of Honda's most celebrated engines to the American market.

The K20A engine in JDM spec produces 220 PS at 8,000 RPM -- a remarkable specific output of 110 PS per liter from a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The engine features VTEC with variable timing control (i-VTEC), individual throttle bodies, and a 8,400 RPM redline that defines the Honda Type R experience.

The DC5 has lived in the shadow of the DC2 Type R, but that is changing. The K20A is a more modern, more powerful engine than the B18C, and the DC5's chassis is more refined and capable. As the DC2 has priced itself into collector territory, the DC5 represents the more accessible Honda Type R experience.

Expected US pricing:

• Type R (JDM spec): $30,000-50,000
• Type S/Si (non-Type R): $15,000-25,000

Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Bug-Eye)

The 2002 WRX STI in "bug-eye" form (the first STI available on the GD platform) introduced the 2.0-liter EJ207 with AVCS variable valve timing, producing 280 PS. While the US received the WRX in 2002, the STI was Japan-only, with distinct differences from the US-spec car.

The JDM STI features the stronger EJ207 block (closed-deck), more aggressive turbo calibration, Brembo brakes, DCCD center differential, and a more aggressive suspension tune. These are meaningfully different cars from their USDM counterparts.

Expected US pricing:

• STI (GDB): $25,000-40,000
• STI Spec C: $30,000-50,000
• STI S202 (limited, 400 units): $50,000-80,000

Toyota Altezza RS200 / Lexus IS200

While the US received the IS300 with the 2JZ-GE inline six, Japan got the Altezza RS200 with the 3S-GE BEAMS engine -- a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder producing 210 PS at 7,600 RPM. Combined with a six-speed manual transmission and approximately 1,300 kg curb weight, the RS200 is a significantly different and more sporting proposition than the American IS300.

The Altezza RS200 is still undervalued relative to its driving merits. As the JDM market matures beyond the flagship turbo models, well-engineered naturally aspirated cars like the RS200 are beginning to attract attention.

Expected US pricing:

• RS200 (6-speed manual): $12,000-22,000
• RS200 Z-Edition: $15,000-28,000

Planning Your 2027 Import

For any of these cars, start your research now. Build relationships with reputable importers, study the Japanese auction market, and understand the specific variants and options that affect desirability and value. The best examples will be claimed quickly once they become eligible, and the information advantage you build today will pay dividends in 2027.

The 2002 class represents one of the most exciting import-eligible cohorts in the history of the 25-year rule. Whether you are seeking a flagship investment piece or an accessible driver, this class has something remarkable to offer.