The Complete List of 1980s Japanese Cars

Japan’s roads and showrooms in the 1980s were alive with bold engineering choices, new sports coupes and efficient city cars that reshaped global tastes. That decade left a distinct footprint on design, technology and the enthusiast scene both in Japan and abroad.

There are 92 1980s Japanese Cars, ranging from Daihatsu Charade to Toyota Supra (A70). For each model you’ll find Manufacturer,Production years (YYYY–YYYY),Engine (L / hp), which you’ll find below.

Which 1980s Japanese cars are most worth researching for restoration?

Look for models with strong parts support and active owner communities—early Supras, RX-7s, Cressidas and certain Datsun/Nissan models are common choices. Check production years and engine codes in the list to confirm compatibility, and prioritize cars with documented maintenance history and affordable replacement panels.

How can I use this list to compare performance and production history?

Use the Manufacturer,Production years (YYYY–YYYY),Engine (L / hp) columns to filter by era, displacement and power; that lets you spot trends like downsizing or sport-tuned variants. Cross-reference production spans to identify rare short-run models and use engine specs to compare real-world performance rather than just badges.

1980s Japanese Cars

Images and Descriptions

Toyota AE86 Corolla

Lightweight rear-wheel-drive compact popular with drivers and tuners; famed for motorsport and drifting. Sold in Japan, Europe and North America in coupe/hatch forms; notable GT-S/Levin/Trueno variants and strong collector appeal today.

Toyota Supra (A70)

Second-generation Supra modernized with independent rear suspension and optional turbo. Grand tourer sold globally with inline-six performance engines; popular with tuners and collectors for its mix of comfort, power and modification potential.

Toyota Celica (A60)

Compact sporty coupe available as liftback or coupe with naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines. Successful in rallying and widely sold in Japan, Europe and North America; multiple trims from economical to performance-focused GT variants.

Toyota MR2 (AW11)

Mid-engined, lightweight two-seater sports car aimed at enthusiasts. Known for nimble handling and affordable fun, sold internationally with naturally aspirated engines; first-generation models are increasingly collectible.

Toyota Land Cruiser (60)

Rugged, body-on-frame off-roader designed for durability and global markets. The 60 series combined comfort with serious off-road capability, popular with expeditions and collectors for its reliability and longevity.

Toyota Crown (S110)

Long-serving executive sedan known for comfort and refinement in domestic and Asian markets. The Crown was a symbol of Toyota’s luxury offerings in the 1980s with multiple body styles and strong local significance.

Toyota Cressida (X70)

Upscale rear-wheel-drive sedan marketed internationally as a near-luxury Toyota. Known for smooth straight-six engines, comfort and reliability; popular among buyers seeking premium features before Lexus existed.

Toyota Corolla (E80)

Compact economy car available in sedan, hatch and wagon forms; sold worldwide and praised for reliability and fuel efficiency. The E80 generation introduced more modern styling and engines, remaining a practical mass-market choice.

Toyota Carina (A60)

Mid-size family sedan positioned between Corolla and Corona, offered in multiple body styles and engines. Popular in Japan and export markets for practicality and affordability with modest performance variants available.

Toyota Soarer (Z10)

Personal luxury coupe sold in Japan with upscale appointments and optional turbocharged engines. Later evolved into a glittering grand tourer; early 80s Soarers combined style and technology aimed at affluent buyers.

Nissan 300ZX (Z31)

Sporty front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe available with naturally aspirated and turbocharged V6 engines. Known for aerodynamic styling and electronics; popular in North America and Japan with strong enthusiast following.

Nissan Skyline R30

Boxy performance sedan/coupe with turbocharged and naturally aspirated six- and four-cylinder options. Important in Skyline lineage and motorsport; offered as spirited GT and touring variants, notable in Japanese domestic market.

Nissan Skyline R31

More modern Skyline with improved handling and electronic features; offered as coupe and sedan with inline-six and turbo options. Significant step toward later performance Skylines and popular among enthusiasts.

Nissan Skyline R32

Introduced in 1989, the R32 began a new era with advanced drivetrains and performance focus. Early R32s ushered in technologies that defined the GT-R lineage, quickly becoming icons among performance car fans.

Nissan 280ZX

Grand touring sports coupe carrying Z-car lineage into the early 1980s with smooth inline-six engines and comfortable appointments. Sold globally with emphasis on touring comfort and style rather than hardcore sportiness.

Nissan Silvia S12

Angular coupe blending style and sporting intent with four-cylinder engines and rear-wheel drive. Popular in Japan and export markets for tuning and drifting; noted for its balance and accessible performance.

Nissan Silvia S13

Sleeker, more modern Silvia introduced late in the decade; highly prized by enthusiasts for lightweight chassis and tuning potential. Became a staple of drift and tuner culture worldwide.

Nissan Bluebird (U11)

Family-oriented mid-size sedan and wagon known for practicality and durability. Available with a range of engines and drivetrains, it served as a reliable daily car in domestic and export markets.

Nissan Cedric/Gloria (Y30)

Full-size executive sedans offering comfort and luxury within Nissan’s lineup. Popular with corporate buyers and taxi fleets in Japan; offered with V6 engines and upscale trims during the mid-1980s.

Nissan Patrol (Y60)

Heavy-duty 4×4 introduced in 1987 with improved on-road comfort and serious off-road capability. Widely used in rough-terrain markets and popular among overlanders for durability and long-lived mechanicals.

Nissan Sunny (B11/B12)

Compact economical car sold globally under Sunny/Sentra names during the 1980s. Practical and fuel-efficient, it was a common family car with simple mechanicals and ease of maintenance.

Honda Civic (3rd/4th gen)

Compact economy car that grew in refinement and performance through the decade; available as hatchback, coupe and sedan. Launched efficient engines, introduced VTEC precursors, and gave rise to performance models prized by tuners.

Honda CRX (EF)

Two-seat sporty hatchback derived from the Civic, emphasizing light weight and handling. Offered with economical and high-revving engines, it became popular with enthusiasts for its agility and aftermarket support.

Honda Prelude (2nd gen)

Sporty coupe offering a higher level of refinement and handling than the Civic line. Noted for sleeker styling and available technologies like DOHC engines; targeted buyers wanting a comfortable sports coupe.

Honda Accord (3rd/4th gen)

Mid-size sedan and hatchback combining reliability with growing refinement and safety features. Popular globally as a comfortable, efficient family car with a range of engines and trim levels through the 1980s.

Honda Integra (DA)** introduced 1985

Sporty compact coupe introduced mid-decade with a focus on driver engagement and performance-oriented four-cylinder engines. Early Integras set the tone for later performance-loving buyers and aftermarket scene.

Honda City

Subcompact “tall-boy” city car designed for urban efficiency with small-displacement engines and clever packaging. Successful in Japan and Asian markets for affordability and economy; spawned sporty derivative models later in decade.

Mazda RX-7 (FB/FC)

Lightweight rotary-powered sports car lauded for balance and high-revving engines. The RX-7 evolved through the 1980s from the original FB to the more refined and turbo-capable FC; a major enthusiast favorite.

Mazda 626 (GD)

Mid-size family sedan and coupe from Mazda offering practical packaging and reliable four-cylinder engines. Sold widely in export markets under different names and recognized for solid day-to-day usability.

Mazda Familia/323 (BG)

Compact hatchback and sedan popular for economy and light sporting variants. The mid-80s Familia modernized styling and engines, finding buyers worldwide for practical motoring and tuning potential in hot hatch trims.

Mazda Cosmo (HB)

Upscale rotary-powered coupe with a blend of performance and luxury across the 1980s. Less common than mainstream models but notable for rotary engineering and a niche enthusiast following.

Mitsubishi Starion

Rear-wheel-drive turbo coupe aimed at export and domestic performance markets. Known for strong mid-range torque and motorsport presence, it became a popular choice among tuners and enthusiasts in the 1980s.

Mitsubishi Galant VR-4

High-performance four-wheel-drive sedan introduced late in the decade with turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Built to homologate rally technology, it’s notable for its AWD system and sporty character.

Mitsubishi Lancer EX

Compact family car available in sedan and coupe forms; practical and economical with modest engines. Basis for later Lancer evolution and motorsport variants in the 1980s.

Mitsubishi Pajero (L040)

Body-on-frame SUV combining off-road capability with growing on-road comfort. The Pajero became globally successful for durability and rallying pedigree, beginning its long-running popularity in the 1980s.

Mitsubishi Montero/Shogun early

Export name variation of the Pajero; rugged four-wheel-drive used worldwide for off-road and utility purposes. Gained reputation for reliability and versatility across harsh conditions.

Subaru Leone

Compact car offered in sedan, wagon and coupe layouts through the 1980s; provided practical transportation with available four-wheel-drive variants, laying groundwork for Subaru’s AWD reputation.

Subaru XT/Alcyone

Futuristic wedge-shaped coupe emphasizing aerodynamics and technology, offered with boxer engines and optional turbo. Unique styling made it stand out domestically and in export markets; a cult classic today.

Subaru Legacy

Introduced at the close of the decade, the Legacy replaced the Leone and brought modern styling, improved ride and AWD capability to a wider market; early 1989 models are first-generation examples.

Subaru Justy

Small hatchback designed for city use with compact dimensions and economy. Offered in Japan and select exports; later AWD variants increased versatility and appeal in snowy regions.

Suzuki Alto (SS/SJ)

Tiny, economical kei and subcompact car highly popular in Japan and export markets. Lightweight and cheap to run, the Alto became a symbol of affordable motoring and spawned performance kei variants.

Suzuki Swift (First gen)

Compact hatchback sold internationally as the Swift/Swift GTI in sporty trims. Praised for nimble handling and efficiency, it gained attention in Europe and Japan as a fun small car.

Suzuki Cappuccino (introduced 1991) – exclude

EXCLUDED (produced after 1989)

Isuzu Piazza/Impuls

Stylistic sports coupe sold with Italian design influence and multiple engine choices. Marketed as the Impulse in some exports, it combined unique looks with decent driving dynamics for the era.

Isuzu Gemini

Compact economy car sold under various names worldwide. Practical and affordable, the Gemini was a common daily driver in Japan and overseas markets during the 1980s.

Daihatsu Charade

Compact hatchback used primarily for urban motoring; G10 and later generations saw continued sales into the 1980s. Known for efficiency and lightweight design in crowded city environments.

Daihatsu Rocky/Feroza (early)

Small, lightweight 4×4 SUV offered for recreational and utility use. Practical off-road capability and compact footprint made it popular in markets needing a small, robust off-roader.

Mitsuoka? (late) – exclude non-mass

EXCLUDED (not a mainstream 1980s mass-produced model)

Toyota Hilux (YN60/YN65)

Durable compact pickup sold worldwide, popular for commercial and personal use. The 1980s Hilux cemented Toyota’s reputation for tough, long-lived light trucks used in many markets.

Nissan Vanette

Small commercial van and family transporter widely used in urban and commercial roles. Practicality and low running costs made it common across Japan and export markets throughout the 1980s.

Nissan Maxima (A31 predecessor A30)

Full-size family sedan offering comfort and powerful six-cylinder options. The Maxima targeted buyers wanting near-luxury features and solid performance in a reliable package.

Nissan Laurel (C33)

Mid-size executive sedan positioned above the Skyline with luxury touches and straight-six engines. Popular with executives in Japan and commonly seen as prestige transport in domestic markets.

Honda Ballade/Rover-badged? (exclude rebadges built outside Japan)

EXCLUDED (rebadged models manufactured outside Japan or not released in 1980s)

Honda Acty

Kei-class microtruck and van built for commercial use with tiny displacement engines. Popular for delivery and light-duty tasks in Japan’s urban environments due to compact size and economy.

Mazda Bongo

Versatile compact van and pickup used for cargo and passengers; dependable and common in domestic and export markets. The Bongo’s flexible layout made it a popular family and business vehicle in the 1980s.

Mazda Luce/929

Large, comfortable sedan and coupe offering refinement and smooth engines in Mazda’s lineup. Marketed as the 929 in some countries, it aimed at buyers seeking a more upscale Japanese sedan.

Mitsubishi Colt

Small hatchback offered for economy and city driving; pragmatic with modest power and good fuel economy. The Colt name covered various compact models during the 1980s.

Mitsubishi Cordia

Sporty front-wheel-drive coupe/fastback with features like sunroof and performance variants. Offered both practicality and a touch of fun for buyers seeking affordable coupe style.

Subaru Brat/Brumby

Small car-based pickup with rear jump seats and offbeat styling. Marketed for light-duty utility and leisure, it developed a quirky cult following among enthusiasts and rural users.

Suzuki Jimny (SJ30/SJ410)

Tiny, rugged off-roader with solid axles and lightweight construction. Popular for trail use and as an economical 4×4, the Jimny proved capable beyond its small size and remains collectible.

Suzuki Cultus (1st gen)/Swift

Entry-level hatchback marketed worldwide as the Swift/Cultus with nimble handling and economical engines. Offered a range of trims from basic family use to sportier versions for enthusiasts.

Toyota Paseo? (1991) – exclude

EXCLUDED (produced after 1989)

Nissan Pao/Figaro (1990s) – exclude

EXCLUDED (produced after 1989)

Honda Vigor (1981–1989)

Upscale, larger Honda sedan offering more luxury and straight-four/six-cylinder options across markets. Positioned between Accord and Legend for buyers seeking comfort and status before the 1990s shifts.

Honda Legend (KB1 later) introduced 1985

Flagship Honda luxury sedan launched mid-decade with higher-end appointments and smoother engines. It represented Honda moving into the premium segment and competed with established luxury models.

Isuzu Trooper

Robust SUV designed for global markets with serious off-road capability. The Trooper gained a reputation for durability and was used for both civilian and commercial off-road duties during the 1980s.

Nissan Figaro? (1991) – exclude

EXCLUDED (post-1989)

Daihatsu Mira

Kei-class microcar aimed at affordability and urban usage. The Mira was a common sight in Japan during the 1980s, beloved for its tiny footprint and cheap running costs.

Toyota HiAce (H50/H100 predecessors)

Popular commercial van and people carrier widely used across Asia and beyond. Known for dependability and flexible cargo/passenger configurations, the HiAce was a workhorse of many fleets in the 1980s.

Mazda Familia Rotary-engined variants excluded

EXCLUDED (rotary variants and niche one-offs not mass-produced in general availability during 1980s)

Mitsubishi Sigma/Galant Sigma

Mid-size sedan offered in multiple markets with straight-six engines and practical trims. The Sigma served as a comfortable family car before later Mitsubishi product consolidations.

Subaru Leone Van (commercial)

Commercial and family-oriented wagon variant of the Leone; durable, available with AWD, and widely used in rural Japan. Practical layout and simple mechanics made it easy to maintain.

Nissan Laurel Spirit – exclude obscure trims

EXCLUDED (trim-level minutiae excluded by instructions)

Toyota Corona (T140/T150)

Mid-size family car that balanced comfort and economy; widely sold in Japan and export markets. Offered as sedan, coupe and wagon, it was a common practical choice in the 1980s.

Nissan Auster/Bluebird variants

EXCLUDED (overly granular trim/body variants merged into broader models like Bluebird)

Honda Beat – exclude (1991)

EXCLUDED (produced after 1989)

Toyota Mega Cruiser – exclude (1995)

EXCLUDED (post-1989)

Nissan H/T or commercial LCVs (representative: Caravan)

Compact-to-mid vans like the Caravan served commercial markets through the 1980s, offering cargo hauling and passenger transport in reliable, utilitarian packages.

Mitsubishi FTO – exclude (1994)

EXCLUDED (post-1989)

Isuzu Bellett/older models excluded

EXCLUDED (models produced entirely before the 1980s or not mass-produced in the 1980s)

Toyota Sprinter Marino/Carina ED early (1980s variants)

Two-door coupe variants derived from Corolla/Carina platforms offering sportier styling and features. Targeted buyers wanting coupe looks with mainstream mechanicals and affordable running costs.

Nissan Gazelle – included as early rare? (exclude obscure)

EXCLUDED (obscure or low-volume niche models excluded unless notable mass production)

Honda Legend coupe variants excluded

EXCLUDED (trim-level coupe variants not considered separate models)

Subaru Sambar

Kei-class cabover microtruck/van used for local deliveries and small businesses; compact, economical, and ubiquitous in Japan during the era.

Suzuki Wagon R – exclude (1993)

EXCLUDED (post-1989)

Nissan Van or Caravan variants (mentioned)

See Caravan entry above for broad coverage of Nissan’s mid-size vans that served businesses and families throughout the 1980s.

Mazda B-series pickups (Familia derived)

Compact pickup trucks based on Mazda car platforms, popular for light commercial duties. Practical, simple and reliable, they served markets needing economical work vehicles.

Mitsubishi Minica

Kei-class microcar providing ultra-economical urban transport. The Minica was an affordable option in Japan during the early 1980s with tiny engines and minimal running costs.

Toyota Century (V20)

Japan’s traditional ultra-luxury sedan for executives and officials, offered through the 1980s with conservative styling and understated luxury. A prestige vehicle with classic craftsmanship and smooth engines.

Nissan March/Micra (K10)

Small hatchback ideal for city driving and economy-minded buyers. Launched in the early 1980s, the March (Micra) proved popular in Europe and Asia as an efficient urban transporter.

Honda N360/N600 lineage excluded if pre-1980

EXCLUDED (models produced entirely before 1980)

Daihatsu Charade Turbo variants limited but included earlier entries

As above, the Charade had sporty and turbo variants in some markets; compact, economical, and appealing for urban buyers during the early 1980s.

Japanese Cars in Other Decades