JDM Cars for Under $5K

​When it comes to cars, the Japanese Domestic Market (or JDM) means a lot of things. It is not unusual for people to assume that all JDM cars cost beautiful bucks, especially with the iconic features, unique makes, and revolutionary technology associated with Japanese machines. The truth, however, is that you do not have to spend so much money to own some of the JDM cars. Long gone is the myth that you should settle for something boring if you are not ready to spend a lot of money on a vehicle. In fact, with a budget of below $5,000, you can buy yourself a JDM car. It is true that some JDM cars, especially the rare collectibles, can be costly, but there are plenty of other cars that are suitable for any budget and will still give the sense of JDM pleasure. For next to nothing, you can still experience the same magical superior Japanese performance. And if you think the cheaper JDM cars do not look good, you are wrong. Most of these cars have a pretty mean look, with amazing features in comparison to other cars. Here is a list of 7 JDM cars for under $5,000:

​    •    Mazda MX-5/ Miata for $2,000

​Miata is among the most common cheap fun cars. The MX-5 has possibly the world's most extensive aftermarket support. While it may not be very convenient, its driving experience is good enough to cover up for this. This car can be described as small, reliable, elegant, fun, and with excellent handling. For those who enjoy more power, you can make use of the Superchargers and Turbo kits. It is one of the best JDM cars that are good for drifting.

​•    The Lexus IS200 First Gen/ Lexus IS300 for $2,500

​You should definitely consider this Lexus if you are looking for a cheap, luxurious, and reliable JDM car for daily use. It is a fun car because of its 207HP and Rear Wheel Drive. It is also suitable for drifting, and the Toyota reliability makes this car one of the best cars on this list.

​•     6th Generation Honda Civic for $1,200 or less

​This car is a favorite for many. These cars are very cheap; you can even get one for $500, especially if you need a project car. It is a perfect fit for anyone who is okay with the Front Wheel Drive and has one of the best aftermarkets, a community of owners, and the parts are easy to find.

​•    2nd Generation Mitsubishi Eclipse for 3,200

​This iconic all-wheel-drive JDM car is like the Supercar for the 'poor man.' It has the same engine as EVO, a legendary engine with 4 cylinders. This Mitsubishi is a dream, and it was actually featured in the first Fast & Furious – the more reason to buy one of these! It is easy to find one at an affordable price and has reliable aftermarket support.

​    •    3rd Generation Acura Integra for $2,700

​It drives almost like the Miata. It has a reliable engine that can last for many miles. At 140HP or 170Hp for later models, these cars have a dedicated community of enthusiasts and good aftermarket support. It, however, does not have drift capabilities and might not be the car for drift lovers.

​•    4th and 5th Generation Honda Prelude for $2,300

​With a Front Wheel Drive, this car is excellent and reliable for daily driving. It is spacious with a refined look. There are also models with 4- Wheel’s steering.

​    •    4th Generation Honda Accord for $2,000

This is a perfect, practical choice for a cheap JDM car. It has excellent aftermarket support and has a power potential starting from 130 to 140 horsepower by its 2.2L engine.