The Coolest Cars You Can Legally Import to the U.S. in 2025

For global car enthusiasts, the United States has always offered a treasure trove of rare and classic performance cars. This opportunity exists thanks to the country’s relatively lenient import regulations. Specifically, the “25-Year Rule” allows vehicles aged 25 or older to be legally imported and registered without the need for stringent safety and emissions certifications.

The year 2025 marks a particularly special milestone. For the first time, a batch of legendary performance cars produced before 2000 becomes eligible for import. From Japan’s rotary wonders to Germany’s handling masters, each model possesses its own unique charm and historical significance.

1. Honda Civic Type R (EP3) – The First Type R Hatchback

Honda produced the Civic Type R EP3, the first Type R model with a hatchback design, from 2001 to 2005. Its famous K20A i-VTEC engine delivers 200 horsepower. Paired with a precise 6-speed manual transmission, it offers a pure Honda high-performance experience.

The EP3 Type R’s most striking features include its unique center-mounted instrument cluster and iconic red Honda badge. Although Honda never officially sold this model in the United States, it now meets the 25-year import eligibility. Regarding pricing, well-maintained examples in the Japanese market range from approximately $15,000 to $25,000, depending on their condition and modifications.

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2. Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 – The Legendary Godzilla

Many enthusiasts regard the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 as the pinnacle of Japanese performance cars. It boasts the legendary RB26DETT inline-six twin-turbocharged engine, officially rated at 276 horsepower (though actual output is higher). The car also features the ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system and Super HICAS four-wheel steering.

Its most famous feature is a multifunctional display that shows real-time performance data. For import hopefuls, 2025 is a milestone year because the final R34 units rolled off the line in 2002, making all of them eligible for U.S. import.

It’s important to note that the starting price for the 2025 Nissan GT-R in Japan is $97,700, but this refers to the newer R35 model. Conversely, the price of a classic R34 depends on its condition and rarity. For instance, right-hand-drive versions in Japan range from approximately $80,000 to $150,000.

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3. Toyota Supra (A80) – The King of Straight-Line Acceleration

The fourth-generation Toyota Supra (A80) achieved legendary status partly thanks to its appearance in the Fast and Furious film series. This car uses the famous 2JZ-GTE inline-six twin-turbocharged engine, renowned for incredible tuning potential that can easily exceed 1,000 horsepower.

Toyota produced the A80 Supra from 1993 to 2002, meaning all versions are eligible for U.S. import in 2025. Its design remains highly recognizable, especially the retractable rear spoiler and unique double-bubble roof.

The starting price for a 3.0T Toyota GR Supra in the United States is $49,990, but this refers to the newer model. In contrast, the price of a classic A80 Supra varies greatly. Key factors include its condition, transmission type (manual versions cost more), and whether it is a rare twin-turbo variant, with prices ranging from approximately $50,000 to $120,000.

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4. Mazda RX-7 (FD3S) – The Rotary Engine Masterpiece

Many consider the third-generation Mazda RX-7 (FD3S) the pinnacle of rotary engine technology. It is equipped with the 13B-REW twin-rotor twin-turbocharged engine, producing 252 horsepower. However, the driving experience feels even more thrilling than the numbers suggest.

The FD3S RX-7 is renowned for its perfect weight distribution and precise handling, thanks to a 50:50 front-to-rear weight balance that makes it exceptional in corners. Produced from 1992 to 2002, all versions can be legally imported into the United States in 2025.

Models from 1993 to 1995 are typically priced between $60,000 and over $80,000. Furthermore, versions modified by renowned tuners like VeilSide command even higher prices due to their modification costs and rarity.

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5. BMW M3 (E36) & Alpina Versions – German Precision Handling

The third-generation BMW M3 (E36) perfectly blends luxury and performance. BMW initially equipped it with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine, later upgrading to a 3.2-liter unit. These produced 286 and 321 horsepower respectively, making it one of the most balanced performance coupes of the 1990s.

In addition to the standard M3, the Alpina B3 based on the E36 is an even rarer gem. Alpina versions typically feature unique wheel designs, luxurious interiors, and optimized engine tuning, offering a driving experience distinct from the standard M3.

Note that the starting price for the 2025 BMW M3 in the United States is $76,000, which again refers to the newer model. On the other hand, classic E36 M3s are relatively more affordable. Well-maintained examples in the U.S. range from approximately $25,000 to $50,000, while Alpina versions are rarer and more expensive.

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6. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI – Rally Legend

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI dominated rally stages in the late 1990s, and its road-going version is equally impressive. It is powered by the 4G63T 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing 276 horsepower, and paired with Mitsubishi’s famous all-wheel-drive system.

The most famous version is the “Tommi Mäkinen Edition,” released to commemorate driver Tommi Mäkinen. It features unique white wheels, red seats, and additional cooling vents. Mitsubishi produced the Evo VI from 1999 to 2001, so all versions are eligible for import in 2025.

In the Japanese market, the Evo VI ranges from approximately $30,000 to $60,000, depending on condition and whether it is a special edition. It is worth noting that some Southeast Asian markets, such as Cambodia, also have Evo models for sale, but buyers must carefully verify their condition and legality.

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7. Volkswagen Lupo GTI – Big Fun in a Small Package

The Volkswagen Lupo GTI is an often-overlooked but highly charming “hot hatch.” A 1.6-liter 16-valve engine producing 125 horsepower powers this car. While the numbers may not seem impressive, its outstanding power-to-weight ratio comes from a curb weight of less than 1 ton.

Highlights include its unique three-spoke steering wheel, sport seats, and iconic “smiling” front grille design. Volkswagen produced it from 2000 to 2005, making early 2000 models eligible for import in 2025.

Due to relatively low production numbers and special positioning, well-maintained Lupo GTIs in the European market range from approximately $10,000 to $20,000. Ultimately, this car is an ideal choice for small car enthusiasts, offering pure driving pleasure without sacrificing practicality.

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8. Holden HSV VX ClubSport – Australian Muscle Car

The Holden HSV VX ClubSport represents Australian muscle cars. Based on the Holden Commodore VX, it uses a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine producing 302 horsepower. Its rear-wheel-drive layout delivers a driving experience reminiscent of traditional American muscle cars.

The HSV version features more aggressive exterior styling, improved suspension, and upgraded interiors. For American enthusiasts, this car offers a unique alternative to domestic muscle cars, combining Australian design philosophy with American powertrains.

Since the Holden brand never officially entered the U.S. market, importing this car requires careful attention to regulatory compliance. In terms of pricing, well-maintained VX ClubSports in Australia range from approximately $20,000 to $35,000.

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9. Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GC8) – The Charm of the Boxer Engine

The first-generation Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GC8) is a significant representative of 1990s Japanese performance cars. It is powered by a 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 276 horsepower, paired with Subaru’s iconic all-wheel-drive system.

The most notable version is the 22B STI, which Subaru produced to celebrate three consecutive WRC manufacturers’ championships. Limited to 400 units, it features widebody styling and a 2.2-liter engine. The standard GC8 STI was produced from 1994 to 2000, so all versions are eligible for import in 2025.

In the Japanese market, standard GC8 STIs range from approximately $25,000 to $50,000, while rare 22B versions can exceed $150,000. For those seeking more affordable options, it is possible to find GC8 models for sale in markets like Cambodia, but condition and legality must be carefully verified.

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10. Toyota Celica GT-Four (ST205) – Rally Technology for the Road

The sixth-generation Toyota Celica GT-Four (ST205) applies Toyota’s WRC technology to the road. It is powered by the 3S-GTE 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, producing 239 horsepower (255 horsepower for the Japanese market), and paired with an all-wheel-drive system.

Its most unique feature is a retractable spoiler hidden in the front bumper—an innovative technology for its time. Produced from 1994 to 1999, all versions can be legally imported into the United States in 2025.

In the Japanese market, the ST205 GT-Four ranges from approximately $20,000 to $40,000, depending on condition and special editions. Finally, this car is an excellent representative of 1990s all-wheel-drive performance cars, offering reliable performance and a unique driving experience.