Classic Cars: The JDM / Drift Tax Cars

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The Nissan 350Z (Z33)

Imagine standing on the asphalt of a sun-drenched racetrack, the distant roar of engines echoing through the grandstands. You hear it—the unmistakable howl of a Nissan 350Z, its VQ35 engine singing a siren song that resonates with every car enthusiast's heartbeat. The 350Z was not just a car; it was a revival, a declaration from Nissan that the Z-car legacy was alive and well. Launched in 2002, it marked a return to affordable rear-wheel-drive sports cars, a genre that was waning in the face of rising fuel prices and tightening emissions regulations.

The heart of the 350Z was its VQ35DE V6 engine, producing 287 horsepower in its early iterations and later 306 horsepower in the 2007 HR variant. This engine is not just known for its power; it’s revered for its reliability and melodious exhaust note, particularly when equipped with test pipes. Behind the wheel, the 350Z delivers an experience that’s both engaging and exhilarating. The steering is direct; the handling is nimble, making it a thrilling companion on twisty roads or the drift circuit. The 0-60 mph time of around 5.5 seconds is just the start; the real joy comes from the way it communicates with the driver, inviting you to push the limits.

As the early 2000s unfolded, America was in the throes of a unique car culture renaissance. The Fast and Furious franchise reignited a passion for import tuning, and the 350Z quickly became a symbol of that movement, embodying the spirit of drifting that was taking root in grassroots events. YouTube saw an explosion of drift compilations featuring the 350Z, turning it into a star of the digital age. It became the car of choice for many Formula DRIFT teams, with nearly every contender at some point piloting this agile machine.

“The VQ35 engine was on Ward's 10 Best Engines list for an astonishing 14 consecutive years.”

When it debuted, the original MSRP of the 350Z was around $26,000. Today, clean examples that once hovered around $5,000 have skyrocketed to $15,000 to $20,000, driven by what enthusiasts now refer to as the “drift tax.” Modified examples, once the pride of the aftermarket scene, have seen their values dip as collectors now seek out unaltered specimens. The HR model commands even higher prices, as enthusiasts recognize the rarity of pristine examples. If you were to invest that same $20,000 today, you might find yourself in a brand-new compact SUV—far from the visceral experience of a 350Z.

True gearheads know that the 350Z was the first Z-car to feature a V6 instead of the traditional inline-six, a bold move that has paid off in spades for Nissan. With its intuitive layout and accessible performance, the 350Z became a gateway for a new generation of enthusiasts, forever changing the landscape of Japanese sports cars.

The Nissan 370Z (Z34)

Step back to 2009, and the automotive world was abuzz with the introduction of the Nissan 370Z. Building on the foundation laid by its predecessor, the 370Z took everything that made the 350Z special and cranked it up a notch. With a 3.7L VQ37VHR V6 engine generating an impressive 332 horsepower in the base model and 350 hp in the Nismo variant, the 370Z was a beast ready to tear up both the streets and the track. It was faster, more refined, and better equipped to handle the demands of both enthusiasts and casual drivers alike.

Driving the 370Z feels like a symphony of mechanical harmony. The VQ37 engine provides a robust power delivery that pushes you back in your seat while the chassis, honed over a 12-year production run, offers a level of handling that is nothing short of exhilarating. The 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.0 seconds is just the tip of the iceberg; the car begs to be driven hard, and its rev-matching technology makes for seamless downshifts that enhance the overall driving experience.

As the recession loomed large in 2009, the introduction of the 370Z was a beacon of hope for car enthusiasts who craved performance without the exorbitant price tag. The Nismo edition, with its race-inspired enhancements, quickly garnered a following among track day warriors. Content creators flocked to the 370Z, showcasing its prowess in countless comparison videos against rivals like the Mustang and BRZ, cementing its place as a modern icon.

“Chris Forsberg won three Formula DRIFT championships in a 370Z-based car, solidifying its status as a drift legend.”

Initially priced around $29,000, the 370Z's value has remained surprisingly stable, with current market values hovering around $21,562 for clean, low-mileage examples. The Nismo models have seen significant appreciation, with some fetching upwards of $40,000, especially as production ended in 2021. With this amount, you could consider a compact luxury SUV today, yet it wouldn’t provide the same thrill of a well-balanced sports car. The 370Z occupies a unique niche—affordable enough for Gen Z yet appreciating steadily as the years pass.

A detail that many may overlook is that the 370Z features one of the most reliable performance V6 engines ever made, offering not only speed but peace of mind for those willing to push it to the limits. With a long production run and minimal changes, the 370Z has become a timeless classic, embodying the essence of what a true sports car should be.

The Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ

In a world increasingly filled with turbocharged engines and hybrid technology, the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ emerged as a breath of fresh air in 2012. These cars celebrated the joy of pure, unadulterated driving, offering enthusiasts a lightweight, naturally aspirated sports car that harkened back to the simplicity of the past. With a 2.0L flat-four engine producing 200 horsepower, they were designed to be the perfect entry point for those looking to hone their driving skills.

The driving experience is nothing short of intoxicating. At just over 2,700 pounds, the 86/BRZ feels nimble and responsive, with a perfect 50/50 weight distribution that enables it to dance through corners with grace. The engine, while not overwhelmingly powerful, rewards drivers with an engaging high-revving character, encouraging you to push it to the redline. The sound of the flat-four engine—distinctively throaty—adds to the driving experience, making every rev feel like a celebration.

Launched during a time when the economy was slowly recovering from the 2008 recession, the 86/BRZ was positioned as an affordable sports car for the masses. It quickly gained traction within the grassroots motorsport community, becoming a staple in drift events and autocross. Its lightweight design and rear-wheel-drive layout made it a favorite among those eager to learn car control, and its connection to the legendary Toyota AE86 from the Initial D anime series cemented its status among enthusiasts.

“Despite having 'only' 228 hp, professional drivers say it is one of the best-handling cars at any price.”

The original MSRP for the 86 and BRZ was around $25,000, a price point that resonated with many young enthusiasts. Today, the second-generation models, now boasting a 2.4L flat-four and 228 horsepower, are valued around $28,000, while first-generation models have seen a marked increase in price due to their growing popularity in the tuning and drifting community. Clean examples of the original models can fetch anywhere from $20,000 to $30,000, while new models offer a more refined experience.

True gearheads appreciate that the 86 and BRZ were built in the same factory, resulting in a unique collaboration between two automotive giants. The distinct tuning differences—Toyota's more playful approach against Subaru's slightly more stable setup—offer enthusiasts a choice that reflects their driving style. The passion and philosophy behind these cars have ignited a new generation of drivers eager to experience the thrill of driving.

The Infiniti G35 (V35)

In the early 2000s, luxury was transforming, and the Infiniti G35 emerged as a game-changer in the luxury sport coupe segment. Launched in 2002, the G35 blended the performance pedigree of the 350Z with the refinement and comfort expected from a luxury brand. Equipped with the same robust VQ35DE V6 engine found in the 350Z, the G35 offered between 260 and 306 horsepower, making it a powerful yet sophisticated option for buyers seeking performance without sacrificing comfort.

Behind the wheel, the G35 delivers a driving experience that balances power and luxury seamlessly. The VQ engine roars to life with an exhilarating growl, and the car's handling is surprisingly agile for a luxury coupe. The ride quality is smooth, yet it retains enough feedback to satisfy enthusiasts. The G35 can sprint from 0-60 mph in about 5.4 to 5.7 seconds, providing a thrilling experience every time you put your foot down.

Debuting during a time when the luxury car market was evolving rapidly, the G35 stood out by proving that you could have a luxury car that also embraced performance. The mid-2000s saw a shift in consumer preferences, with many buyers looking for vehicles that offered both comfort and excitement. The G35 quickly found its place in the market, with its luxurious interior and sporty handling making it a popular choice among young professionals.

“The G35 is essentially a 350Z with a luxury interior — same FM platform and VQ35 engine.”

The G35’s original MSRP was around $30,000, but today, prices have been rising as clean examples become increasingly rare, with values ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 depending on condition and modifications. If you were to invest that same $20,000 today, you might find yourself in a new compact sedan, far removed from the engaging driving experience of the G35. However, the G35’s shared platform with the 350Z keeps the modding community alive, and insurance is often cheaper than that of its sportier sibling.

One detail that enthusiasts treasure is Calvin Wan's twin-turbo G35, which achieved notable success in Formula DRIFT, proving that this luxury sports car could also dominate on the track. As the G35 continues to appreciate in value, it stands as a testament to Infiniti's ability to balance luxury and performance without compromise.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata ND

As the sun sets on a warm summer evening, you can hear it—the unmistakable thrum of a Mazda MX-5 Miata, a sound that is music to the ears of driving purists. The ND generation of the Miata, which debuted in 2016, encapsulates the essence of what a sports car should be: lightweight, agile, and utterly joyful to drive. Weighing in at just over 2,300 pounds and powered by a 2.0L Skyactiv-G I-4 producing 181 horsepower, the Miata is proof that less can indeed be more.

The driving experience in an ND Miata is a tactile delight. The steering is precise, the throttle response is immediate, and the chassis feels alive, begging you to attack corners with zeal. The 0-60 mph time hovers around 5.5 to 5.7 seconds, but it’s not about the numbers; it’s about the connection between the driver and the car. With a six-speed manual transmission, each shift feels like an extension of your will, making every drive an event.

Launched amidst a growing concern for environmental sustainability and fuel efficiency, the ND Miata was a refreshing nod to the past, inviting drivers to enjoy the pure joy of driving without the distractions of modern technology. It resonated with both millennials and baby boomers, who fondly remembered the original Miata’s charm. The ND’s modern tech and safety features, coupled with its lightweight philosophy, made it a hit on both the street and the racetrack.

“At 2,366 lbs, the ND Miata weighs less than most modern crossovers' spare tires feel like.”

The original MSRP for the ND Miata started around $28,985, and today, prices for clean examples generally range from $22,000 to $30,000, with manual transmission models holding their value exceptionally well. If you were to spend that same amount today, you might land a compact crossover or a fully loaded sedan, neither of which would deliver the same visceral connection to the road. The ND Miata remains a symbol of automotive purity, a reminder of the joy that comes from driving for the sake of driving.

One detail that true enthusiasts appreciate is that the ND Miata is the best-selling roadster in history, with over 1.2 million units sold since its debut in 1989. Mazda’s engineers meticulously accounted for every gram, ensuring that the Miata remains an exhilarating experience that transcends generations.

The Nissan 240SX (S13/S14)

When discussing drift culture, one car stands above the rest: the Nissan 240SX. Debuting in the late 1980s and continuing into the mid-1990s, the S13 and S14 variants have become synonymous with the sport. This car didn't just contribute to the drifting scene; it built it. With a 2.4L KA24E I-4 engine producing between 140 and 155 horsepower, the 240SX may not have been fast in stock form, but it was the perfect canvas for aspiring drifters.

Behind the wheel, the 240SX is a delightfully balanced machine. Its RWD layout and almost perfect weight distribution make it a natural when it comes to sliding sideways. While the stock engine may not provide neck-snapping acceleration, the car's lightweight chassis and responsive steering create an exhilarating driving experience, especially when you learn to harness its potential. The tuning community has embraced the 240SX, with countless engine swaps—like the SR20DET or a 2JZ—turning it into a performance monster.

During the 1990s, the United States was experiencing a cultural shift, with drifting gaining traction through underground events and the rise of Japanese car culture. The 240SX was featured prominently in drifting videos, video games, and even the anime series Initial D, which romanticized the art of drifting and solidified the 240SX's legendary status among enthusiasts.

“A bone-stock 240SX is now worth MORE than a modified one — clean examples are that rare.”

Originally priced around $15,000, the 240SX has become a collector's item, with prices for clean, unmodified examples soaring to between $15,000 and $50,000, depending on the model and condition. If you were to spend that same amount today, you might find yourself in a new economy sedan, but you’d be missing out on the thrill of driving a car that started a movement. The drift tax is very real, with some S14s selling for more than a new Nissan Z, a testament to its enduring legacy.

One detail that only true enthusiasts might know is that the Japanese versions of the 240SX, the 180SX and Silvia, came equipped with turbocharged engines, while the US market received the naturally aspirated KA24. This disparity adds to the allure of the 240SX, as enthusiasts often seek to replicate the performance of the JDM models through swaps and modifications.

The Honda Civic EK (6th Generation)

In the world of tuning, one car has stood the test of time as the quintessential entry-level hero: the Honda Civic EK. Launched in 1996, the EK generation quickly became the foundation of import car culture in America, particularly with the introduction of the B16A2 VTEC engine in the Si trim. With 160 horsepower and a silky-smooth rev range that peaks at 8,000 RPM, the Civic Si became the dream car for many aspiring tuners.

Driving an EK Civic Si feels like a celebration of all things automotive. The lightweight hatchback body, weighing around 2,300 pounds, allows for agile handling and quick acceleration. The sound of the VTEC engaging is a symphony for enthusiasts, and the car's low center of gravity makes it feel glued to the pavement during spirited drives. It's a car that encourages you to push it hard, rewarding you with a thrilling driving experience that few modern cars can replicate.

During the late 1990s and early 2000s, the rise of import tuning culture was in full swing. The EK Civic became the poster child of this movement, appearing in movies like The Fast and the Furious and inspiring countless build series on YouTube. Its modifiability and lightweight design made it a favorite among enthusiasts, and it quickly became the go-to choice for young car fans looking to make their mark.

“The EK generation is considered the peak of the lightweight, analog Honda driving experience.”

The original MSRP for the Civic Si was around $15,000, but clean examples today can fetch anywhere from $25,000 to $40,000, particularly for rust-free hatches. If you were to invest that same amount today, you might end up with a compact crossover, but you’d miss the connection to the golden age of Japanese tuning. The EK Civic’s values have skyrocketed as more enthusiasts seek to recapture the joy of their youth.

A fascinating detail for gearheads is that the EK9 Type R, a JDM-only variant, produced 185 horsepower from its 1.6L engine, making it one of the highest specific outputs of its era. This model has become a holy grail for collectors, commanding prices upwards of $40,000 in pristine condition, further illustrating the deep-seated passion for the EK Civic.

What These Cars Meant

These cars were more than just machines; they were symbols of freedom, identity, and rebellion. For baby boomers, the car you drove was a reflection of who you were, a statement of your personal style and aspirations. The thrill of the open road was a siren call that seduced you into a world of horsepower and adrenaline, where every turn was an opportunity to embrace the essence of driving.

For the next generation—those who inherited this passion from their parents—these vehicles represent a bridge to the past, a connection to the stories and experiences that shaped their family's automotive legacy. They are not just cars; they are memories of summer nights spent cruising with friends, of first dates, and of the thrill of mastering the art of driving. Each model tells a story, a chapter in the ever-evolving narrative of car culture, and as the years go by, their significance only deepens.

As you reflect on your own experiences, consider this: you insure your classic car because you know what it's worth. But the most valuable thing in your garage isn't the car—it's the person who drives it home to their family every night.

What was YOUR dream car? The one on the poster in your bedroom, the one you'd still buy tomorrow if you could?

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Valuations & FAQ

Nissan 350Z (Z33) — What's it worth now?

Original MSRP: N/A. Current market value: N/A. Market trend: Prices have risen significantly due to 'drift tax.' Clean, stock examples that were $5K five years ago now fetch $15-20K. Heavily modified examples are worth less than stock ones — a reversal from the past. The HR engine (2007+) commands a premium. Expect continued appreciation as clean examples become scarcer..

Nissan 370Z (Z34) — What's it worth now?

Original MSRP: N/A. Current market value: N/A. Market trend: Market benchmark value sits around $21,562. Nismo versions have appreciated significantly. Production ended in 2021 after a remarkably long run. Clean manuals with low miles are climbing in value. The 370Z sits in a sweet spot — affordable enough for Gen Z but appreciating steadily..

Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ — What's it worth now?

Original MSRP: $28,055 (GR86 base) / $30,095 (BRZ base) — 2nd gen. Current market value: N/A. Market trend: The 2nd gen's power bump to 228 hp solved the biggest complaint about the 1st gen (the torque dip). Used 1st gen prices have risen as the drift/enthusiast community absorbs clean examples. The car is a Toyota-Subaru joint venture — truly unique in the market. Manual transmission take rate is extremely high..

Infiniti G35 (V35) — What's it worth now?

Original MSRP: N/A. Current market value: N/A. Market trend: Prices are rising as clean examples become rare — many have been drifted, modified, or abused. The manual coupe is the most desirable configuration. Shared platform with 350Z means interchangeable parts keep the modding community alive. Insurance is cheaper than a 350Z despite similar performance..

Mazda MX-5 Miata ND — What's it worth now?

Original MSRP: $28,985 (Sport base) - $40,160 (Grand Touring RF). Current market value: N/A. Market trend: Miatas hold value incredibly well — especially manuals. The ND is considered one of the best Miata generations ever. Rumors of the next-gen Miata going hybrid or electric have made the ND more desirable. Used ND prices are strong at $22-30K for clean examples..

Nissan 240SX (S13/S14) — What's it worth now?

Original MSRP: N/A. Current market value: N/A. Market trend: EXTREME drift tax. A stock 240SX with 119K miles can cost $31,000. Clean S14s have sold for $50,000+. Prices went from $2-5K ten years ago to $15-50K+ today. The S15 Silvia (never sold in the US) can now be legally imported (25-year rule) and commands $40-60K. Prices will never return to what they were — the drift tax is permanent..

Honda Civic EK (6th Generation) — What's it worth now?

Original MSRP: N/A. Current market value: N/A. Market trend: Prices have skyrocketed for clean examples. A standard EK Civic is worth $2-5K, but a clean Si hatchback can fetch $25-40K+. Rust-free examples are disappearing rapidly. The JDM Civic Type R (EK9) with the B16B engine is a holy grail car commanding $40-80K. Anyone who wanted one in high school but could not afford it now has the money — driving prices up..