26. Mazda RX-7
The resurgence of Japanese sports cars from the 1970s to the 1990s is one of the biggest news in the classic car world in recent years. Those forgotten models, some even with RHD-only configurations, are popular with U.S. enthusiasts who import them from Japan or Australia. So if you are looking for a genuine JDM example, you’re late since the prices are in the stratosphere and the choice of models is limited. However, there is an alternative in the form of the Mazda RX-7. In fact, this first generation of this compact Mazda sports car has all the right ingredients to become a cult classic. Even though it’s 40 years old, the RX-7 has rear-wheel drive and a specific design. Also, the RX-7 includes popup headlights and interesting technology.

Also, it’s affordable and plentiful, and it even had some racing success. They introduced the first generation in 1978, and it stayed on the market until 1985. And during that period, they made almost 500,000 RX-7s, selling most of them in America. Under the hood, you could get a 1.1 to 1.3-liter Wankel rotary engine, which was the RX-7’s most notable feature. The extremely compact and light engine produced 102 to 135 HP, which was more than enough for the lively performance of this little coupe. But this interesting feature can be the biggest problem of the RX-7 since Wankel engines are uncommon. So sourcing parts and servicing them could be a problem. If you are fit for the challenge of owning a classic Japanese Wankel sports car, you can find the RX-7 for as little as $2,000. Just be sure to check the engine for leaking oil as a sign of potential trouble.