Obsession toward JDM

The car world is brilliant miscellaneous place in the universe. Everyone has their own reasons for liking what they want. The quote “Eat Sleep JDM” bring a massive impact in the motorsports industry. The meaning of JDM is Japanese Domestic Market. How does JDM influence Malaysian’s car scene?

Let’s talk about the heart transplant that often happened down in Malaysia. The engine over engine. A small modification action of here and there will multiply into big savings once the car is on the road. There have been some crazy people who want torque more than speed, they input the YRV engine into a 1.0 Perodua Kelisa. From 1000cc to 1300cc Turbo, you are likely to see the YRV turbo comes with power and excellent speed for a car that weight approximately a ton. Or more superbly known for crazy JDM lovers on liking a SR20 in the chassis of KE70. 

Take my argument to the next level, JDM is all about varieties. Growing up with DC2 and EVO IV, learning the Japs can be crazy enough to have 4WD in a sedan car. Which makes no sense to me back then. The technological masterpiece of improvement on every generation of Nissan Skyline GTR proven the facts that the Japs knows what their customers want in worldwide. JDM…the varieties basket of Rear-Wheel drive, All-Wheel drive, Front-engined, Mid-Engined. Which means that, there is always something for everyone.


We may complain the price hike on cars and petrol but JDM enthusiastic are way too hard core. Willing to go through huge financial hurdles just to own that one ride. A track car with daily driver is far and distant dream for many. Owning any of the JDM car isn’t a dream in Malaysia. With approximately RM 65000, you could own a Nissan Fairlady 350z. Averagely, RM 4000/year for roadtax. With mild modification, 19’ of rims, nonetheless, tyres could easily cost up to another RM 3000 +- for 4 pieces. Hence, the rebuilt and maintenance will kill one that living under cost. However, majorities’ diehard JDM enthusiastic will take the risk.

The diversities of a JDM owner on owning a 350z could easily fall into a temptation of Veilside bodykit to Rocketbunny, it is just like looking at your wife changing into different outfit on daily basis. If you are hardcore, you will pay for it. Where are those bodykits from? None other than, Japan.

While the rest of the world was driving in straight lines or mooing their way uphill, the Japs were being insane by racing downhill /uphill. A subtle different, but when racing with gravity pushing you along, the car always feels on the edge of losing control.

We, Malaysian literally adapted the meaning of Touge from the land of the rising sun. The obsession of JDM will continue to run the blood of Motorsports.