Classic Car Market Report: Japanese Legends Lead Growth

The collector car market is experiencing a notable shift, with Japanese performance cars from the 1990s and early 2000s leading value appreciation in 2025.

CarVault.ai data reveals that the Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 V-Spec II has seen average auction prices climb to approximately $450,000, up from $350,000 just two years ago. The Toyota Supra MK4 Turbo (manual transmission examples) now regularly achieves $120,000-$150,000, while pristine Honda NSX Type R examples have broken the $250,000 barrier.

Market analysts attribute this growth to several factors: the cars are now reaching the 25-year import threshold for US buyers, the generation that grew up with these cars in video games and media now has significant purchasing power, and production numbers were inherently limited.

The trend shows no signs of slowing, with Mazda RX-7 FD Spirit R editions and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI TME also showing strong appreciation. Collectors are advised that condition and documentation remain paramount, with verified low-mileage examples commanding substantial premiums over average cars.