Popular Right-Hand Drive Car Models Around the World

Much of the world drives on the right-hand side of the road, including all of China, Europe, and North America but there are countries where drivers drive on the left-hand side of the road, including the United Kingdom, Australia, India, and South Africa. To cater for this, cars sold in these countries have their driver controls on the right side of the car. Some of these cars never got a left-hand drive version, and some of them are incredibly popular and sought after. As these incredibly popular car models age past 25 years old, we’re finally able to import them thanks to a piece of legislation from the 1980s.

What the Law Says

Because of import laws, some of the most popular right-hand drive cars weren’t available to you if you are looking in the USA and that’s because many of the most popular and sought-after cars that were only made with this right-hand drive layout haven’t been legal in the US. This is because of the Imported Vehicle Safety Compliance Act of 1988. It was introduced to increase vehicle safety and to try and protect the industry. The law banned the import of cars not designed for the US market into the US. You can, however, still import cars that were classics or vintage, if they are more than 25 years old.

Nissan Skyline

It would be wrong not to start this list with the iconic Nissan Skyline. It’s almost certainly the most popular imported right-hand drive sports car, and has gained a cult following worldwide. Renowned for its sleek and daring design and more than impressive performance given its price, it’s a favorite among car enthusiasts who crave the style and speed it offers.

Toyota Sera

Toyota manufactured the futuristic-looking Sera for just six years, from 1990 to 1996. There wasn’t much under the hood and when it came to performance, it shipped with just a 1400cc engine four-cylinder engine that barely scraped above 100 horsepower, but it more than made up for it with its looks that were ahead of its time. The Toyota Sera featured modern sports car curves, exciting gull wing doors and a full-glass trunk that you must see to truly appreciate.

Mitsubishi Lancer

Anyone who has had even a passing interest in rally cars will be familiar with the Lancer Evolution III, one of Mitsubishi’s most respected and successful cars. While The Lancer has been available in the US from 2003 until it ceased production, it’s still a difficult car to find. Also, the popularity of specific models means many Mitsubishi Lancer Evo drivers have opted for imported right-hand drive versions, with the Lancer Evolution III being the most popular thanks to its massive 266 horsepower engine.

Nissan Figaro

Japanese cars remain popular with car enthusiasts the world over, and the Nissan Figaro is no exception to this. It was manufactured for just one year in 1991, but it remains perhaps one of the most out-there and sought after cars amongst those who want a deep cut car for their collection. When it was launched, it was so popular that Nissan had to randomly choose those who wanted to buy one via lottery. Considering it had just 77 horsepower, the Figaro is a strange yet wonderful car to only ever be made in right-hand drive and, thanks to being so lightweight, it has a zippy performance profile to go along with its good looks.

These are just four of the many right-hand drive cars that enjoy massive popularity the world over. Other imports like the Ford Falcon GT and options from lesser-known manufacturers like TVR are coveted by car enthusiasts from around the country.