Konnichiwa, fellow car enthusiasts and lovers of all things eccentric! The realm of weird Japanese cars is populated with eye-catching designs that defy convention and outlandish features that sometimes have no real justification. Japan has produced some automotive oddities that will make you do a double-take.
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1. Daihatsu Midget (1957)
And no, this is not a vehicle from Cars that was brought to life, this was a real-life car. This front-wheel classic car has a funny look and a funny name.
2. Subaru 360 (1958)
The Subaru 360, a mix between VW beetle and a fiat 500, is a compact car that captures the essence of cuteness. With its rounded body and petite size, it looks like a friendly insect ready to zip around town. This quirky little car might not be the fastest on the road, but it’s guaranteed to turn heads and put a smile on your face.
3. Dome Zero (1978)
Straight out of a sci-fi movie, the Dome Zero was a prototype for a futuristic sports car that screams “zoom into tomorrow.” With its sleek, angular design and gull-wing doors, this beast was created by Minoru Hayashi, a racing aficionado. Whether you’re dreaming of intergalactic adventures or simply want to feel like a racing champion, the Dome Zero is a head-turner in any era.
4. Toyota FXV concept (1985)
5. Honda Today (1985)
The Honda Today is a tiny urban car that proves good things come in small packages. Its compact size made it perfect for zipping through narrow city streets, while its adorable looks added a dose of charm to the daily commute.
6. Nissan S-Cargo (1989)
If you’re looking for a car that breaks the mold, the Nissan S-Cargo is a great contestant. This peculiar van resembles a snail, complete with a shell-like exterior and curvy lines. Packing a sliding side door and a very roomy interior, it was a unique choice for those who dared to stand out from the crowd and embraced their inner quirkiness.
7. Nissan Boga Concept (1989)
The Nissan Boga is a true oddball that blends elements of a sports car and a pickup truck. Its elongated body and sleek design give it a distinctive appearance, while the open cargo bed at the back adds a touch of versatility. It was like the automotive equivalent of a chameleon, capable of adapting to various driving adventures with ease. A concept car that looked so modern and cool!
8. Nissan Pao (1989)
Meet the Nissan Pao, a retro-inspired hatchback that was manufactured between 1989 and 1991. With its vintage styling, round headlights, and funky colors, it transports you back to a bygone era. The Pao is a delightful reminder that cars can have personality, and this one is overflowing with character and charm if you’re part of the right crowd.
9. Mitsubishi Minica Toppo (1990)
The Mitsubishi Minica Toppo is quite an unusual sight. This funky mini wagon proves practicality doesn’t have to be boring. Designed as a compact car so it can blend well in the urban living scenario, its unique boxy shape and cheerful color choices make it impossible to ignore.
10. Mitsubishi MUM 500 (1990)
The Mitsubishi MUM 500 is a compact car that looks like it belongs in a cartoon. With a round shape and bubbly appearance, it radiates a sense of playfulness and eco-consciousness since it’s not a bulky SUV.
11. Nissan Figaro (1991)
The Nissan Figaro is a retro-styled convertible that oozes vintage charm. With its nod to classic European designs, this compact car is a head-turner
While some may see these unconventional vehicles as mere curiosities, they embody the spirit of experimentation and individuality. From retro-inspired hatchbacks to futuristic concept cars, Japan has proven time and again that it can push the boundaries of automotive design and ignite our sense of wonder. Remember, the world of weird Japanese cars is a testament to the power of imagination and thinking outside the box.
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Watch The Video of 11 Weird Japanese Cars You’ll Either Love Or Completely Hate
FAQ
What are some weird Japanese car names?
Mazda Bongo Friendee. This name brings together a playful twist on the word “friend” with the idea of a versatile and spacious vehicle. It’s like having a reliable buddy on your adventures.
Honda That’s. This name is both confident and whimsical, as if the car itself is saying, “Hey, I’m unique and fabulous. Deal with it!”
Daihatsu Naked. Don’t worry, this car isn’t actually bare. The name plays on the idea of being stripped down to its essentials, embracing simplicity and honesty.
Nissan Dayz Roox. With a name that sounds like it’s straight out of a cartoon, the Dayz Roox brings to mind a small, agile creature ready to hop around the city streets.
Suzuki Mighty Boy. This name combines strength and cuteness, giving the impression of a little car with a big heart, ready to take on any challenge.
Mitsubishi Town Box Wide. It’s like they took a standard box and made it wider, emphasizing the practicality and roominess of this quirky vehicle.
Toyota Deliboy. Delivering goods with a touch of playfulness, the Deliboy is the delivery van that can brighten anyone’s day.
Subaru Sambar Dias Wagon. The name suggests a vehicle that can carry you on exciting journeys, even if it means going off the beaten path. It’s a wagon for exploring life’s adventures.
Honda Life Dunk. This name brings to mind a car that’s ready to “dunk” into any situation with style and confidence, standing out from the crowd.
Mazda Scrum Wagon. While “scrum” usually refers to a rugby formation, in this case, it implies a compact and maneuverable vehicle that can navigate through tight spaces with ease.
