Top 10 Most Underrated Classic Asian Cars of All Time

Japanese carmakers have gifted the world with icons like the Toyota Supra, Nissan Skyline, and Mazda RX-7 – but what about the ones that slipped under the radar? Behind the big names lies a treasure trove of models that never got the attention they deserved, despite innovative designs, technical prowess, and solid performance.

Here’s our take on the 10 most underrated classic Japanese cars ever built. From the slightly overlooked to the completely forgotten, this list is sure to surprise you – and at least one of these hidden gems will have you saying, “Wait, what?”

Honda Prelude – A Fusion of Tech and Style

Often overshadowed by the Civic and Integra, the Honda Prelude blended cutting-edge technology with sleek design as early as 1978. Later models introduced four-wheel steering and razor-sharp handling – way ahead of their time. Still, it never quite earned the respect it deserved.

Mazda 929 – The Unsung King of Comfort

While the MX-5 and RX-7 stole the limelight, the Mazda 929 quietly offered premium build quality, rear-wheel drive, and an effortlessly smooth ride. It was a car for those who craved Japanese reliability wrapped in European-style luxury – and yet the market ignored it.

Toyota Soarer – Japan’s Forgotten Grand Tourer

Known later as the Lexus SC, the Toyota Soarer was a sophisticated and powerful GT machine. Equipped with a buttery-smooth V6 or a punchy 1JZ engine, and a lavish interior, it rivaled German contenders with ease. But as it was mostly reserved for the Japanese domestic market, Western gearheads often missed it.

Mitsubishi Starion – Turbo Pioneer

The Mitsubishi Starion was ahead of its time, boasting turbocharged power, rear-wheel drive, and widebody styling. Overshadowed by flashier competitors like the 300ZX and Supra, the Starion now stands as a raw, old-school sports car brimming with character.

Nissan Pulsar GTI-R – Rally DNA on the Street

This was a true “pocket rocket”. Built with rally in mind, the Pulsar GTI-R featured AWD and a fierce SR20DET engine. Unfortunately, its bland hatchback looks meant many dismissed it without realizing its potential – making it a true sleeper today.

Subaru XT – A Futuristic Oddity

With its wedge-shaped body and airplane cockpit-inspired interior, the Subaru XT looked like it came from another planet. Advanced features and AWD made it unique, but its quirky aesthetics scared off the masses. Today, it’s a cult classic among collectors.

Suzuki Cappuccino – The Tiny Titan

The kei-car scene never gained traction in the West, but the Suzuki Cappuccino deserved more praise. This ultra-light, turbocharged roadster with RWD was full of soul and driving joy. Many mistook it for a toy – a major misjudgment.

Toyota Cressida – Understated Luxury

The Toyota Cressida had it all: comfort, reliability, and a rear-wheel-drive layout beloved by tuners. Its silky six-cylinder engines were a joy, yet it never developed a cult following – maybe because it looked like just another corporate sedan.

Datsun 510 – The Japanese BMW 2002

This compact sports sedan was a racetrack warrior and earned the nickname “the poor man’s BMW.” With incredible handling and rock-solid engineering, it’s criminally under-discussed in mainstream circles, despite its legacy.

Isuzu 117 Coupé – The Unknown Design Icon

Designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, the rear-wheel-drive Isuzu 117 Coupé offered hand-built craftsmanship and timeless beauty. It was elegant and refined – yet nearly no one remembers it. A true hidden gem.

Our team may have used AI to assist in the creation of this content, which has been reviewed by our editors.