has one of the most eclectic car markets in the world. Unfortunately, some of the most interesting models don’t make it to the U.S. Even worse, the ones that don’t are banned from America for 25 years, thanks to the Department of Transportation’s

import

regulations.

Lately though, that ban has inadvertently created a surge of interest in sports cars built by and for Japan in the ‘90s. As it lifts off a new group of vehicles each year, U.S. drivers are given access to another batch of cars from the golden era of Japanese domestic models (JDM).

Jerry

, your car insurance super app, took a look at the 1997 JDMs available for import this year to give you an idea of what we’ve been missing out on.

The cream of the 1997 JDM crop

Thanks to

Paul Walker

and the rest of the Fast and Furious cast, most Americans who know the term “JDM” first think of modified sports cars when they hear it.

JDMBuySell’s

list of the most anticipated ‘97 models available for import continues that reputation.

Of the nine vehicles highlighted, seven belong in the sports car category. Some, like the Honda Civic Type R and Subaru WRX STI Type R, are simply trims of familiar models that never made it across the ocean. Others, like the Mitsubishi Lancer, are altogether new to U.S. drivers.

Many of these would interest car enthusiasts looking for a project, but others are best left untouched. The 1997

Nissan Skyline

GT-R Nismo 400R, for example, had a production run of only 44 units. In good condition, Hagerty says it’s worth nearly $2,000,000.

Not all JDMs are sports coupes

JDM culture definitely favors two-door coupes, but they aren’t the only kind of vehicle getting attention from importers. Japan also produced another beloved ‘90s body type—the station wagon.

The wagon that first springs to mind might be the boxy family transporter that was the Volvo 240, but Japan’s idea of the seven-seater hatchback is a little different.

The Nissan Autech 260RS, for example, gives the sports car performance of its sibling, the Skyline, while also offering enough cargo space for any Costco run.

The 1997 Toyota Caldina GT-T holds a similar position in its automaker’s domestic lineup, offering a similar driving experience to the

Toyota Celica

Finding coverage for JDM imports

It might seem unfair that we have to wait 25 years to access some of Japan's best vehicles, but the ban comes with one perk: the wait means that every once-banned JDM is old enough to qualify for classic car coverage, which is generally much cheaper than regular car insurance.

That said, prices for coverage still vary depending on the car you own and the provider you choose. To make sure you’re getting the best price, go to Jerry.

A licensed broker that offers end-to-end support, the Jerry app gathers affordable quotes, helps you switch plans, and can even help you cancel your old policy.

And to ensure you always have the lowest rate, Jerry will send you new quotes every time your policy comes up for renewal, so you’re always getting the coverage you want at the best price.

MORE:

These JDMs Deserve Some Recognition

Are you overpaying for car insurance?

Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.

Try Jerry