In 2025, the global automotive trade faces unprecedented challenges due to aggressive tariff policies. While modern vehicles endure a 25% import duty in the U.S. and retaliatory tariffs in Japan, classic cars have emerged as a rare bright spot. The 25-year exemption rule in the U.S. and Japan’s zero-tariff policy on imported vehicles have created a thriving niche market for vintage automobiles, with savvy collectors and dealers capitalizing on these exemptions to bypass punitive trade barriers. This article explores how classic cars are reshaping US-Japan auto trade, offering actionable strategies for enthusiasts and investors.
The U.S. grants a critical exemption for vehicles over 25 years old:
2.5% import duty (vs. 25% for modern cars)
No EPA/DOT compliance required
Simplified customs clearance with minimal documentation
Example Savings: A 1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 valued at $85,000 pays $2,125 in duty (2.5%) instead of $21,250 (25%).
Japan maintains a 0% tariff on all imported vehicles, including classics. Key benefits:
No emissions or safety compliance for pre-1990 models
Growing demand for American muscle cars and European classics
Nostalgic reimportation of JDM vehicles that spent decades abroad
Since the April 2025 tariff implementation, the U.S. has seen a 37% year-over-year surge in classic car imports, driven by:
1999–2000 Models: Newly eligible under the 25-year rule (e.g., Honda S2000, Toyota Celica)
JDM Demand: Japanese classics now account for 61% of all U.S. vintage imports
Investment Potential: Auction prices for eligible models rose 15-40% in 2025
| Model | 2024 Avg. Price | 2025 Avg. Price | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 Nissan Skyline R34 | $85,000 | $120,000 | +41% |
| 2000 Honda S2000 AP1 | $28,000 | $38,500 | +37.5% |
| 2000 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R | $65,000 | $92,000 | +41.5% |
Japanese collectors are repatriating classic JDM vehicles originally exported to the U.S.:
1990s Icons: Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX, and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
Cultural Value: Vehicles featured in Initial D and Fast & Furious command premium prices
Logistics Advantage: US-sourced classics often have detailed service records and lower mileage
Japan’s zero-tariff policy and weak yen make U.S. classics highly attractive:
Muscle Cars: 1960s Mustangs and Camaros up 22% in Japanese auction value
Pre-1980 Luxury: Cadillac Eldorado and Lincoln Continental demand grows 18% YoY
Off-Roaders: 1970s Jeep CJ-5s and Ford Broncos surge 35% due to overlanding trends
The 25-year exemption unlocks iconic Japanese models for American collectors:
Nissan Skyline GT-R R34: Only 11,578 produced; U.S. prices exceed $120k
Toyota Supra (A80): Unmodified examples fetch 20% premiums over modified ones
Honda NSX NA1: Low-mileage examples now trade at $150k+
Check our Article on the best JDM legends to impor to the US
A California dealer imported six 1999 Skyline GT-R R34s from Japan in Q1 2025:
Cost: $85,000/unit (Japan) + $2,125 duty
Resale: $120,000/unit (U.S. auction)
Profit Margin: 34% after shipping and compliance
A Tokyo collector imported a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro SS from Texas:
US Cost: $75,000
Japan Value: ¥14M ($127k)
Key Factor: Original 396ci V8 and matching-numbers documentation
A Porsche dealer used a Temporary Import Bond (TIB) to display a 2000 911 GT3 Clubsport at Monterey Car Week, avoiding $73,750 in duties before re-exporting to Germany.
Prioritize vehicles crossing the 25-year threshold in 2025:
2000 Honda S2000: AP1 chassis with F20C engine
1999 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VI: “Tommi Mäkinen Edition”
2000 Toyota MR2 Spyder: Lightweight roadster gaining cult status
Source components from Mexico/Canada to avoid tariffs:
Engine Rebuilds: USMCA-compliant machine shops save 18-22%
Body Panels: Mexican suppliers replicate JDM parts at 30% lower cost
Export/Reimport: Buy U.S.-stored JDM cars for Japanese collectors
Currency Plays: Time purchases during JPY/USD fluctuations
Our services streamline cross-Pacific classic car logistics:
Age Verification: Confirm eligibility via factory records and VIN decoding
Customs Expertise: File HS-7/EPA forms for seamless clearance
Secure Transport: Enclosed containers from Yokohama to Long Beach
For broader context, see our article:
Japan's Zero-Tariff Policy: Impact on US Car Exports
In an era of escalating trade tensions, classic vehicles have become a rare conduit for tariff-free auto trade between the U.S. and Japan. By focusing on 25+ year-old models and leveraging bidirectional exemptions, collectors can acquire appreciating assets while bypassing punitive duties.
Contact us for tailored strategies to maximize your US-Japan automotive investments.