Sakura Steel - Japanese Car Insights
Welcome to Sakura Steel, your ultimate source for in-depth information on Japanese cars. Explore the history, performance, and comparisons of iconic brands like Toyota, Mazda, Nissan, and Lexus.
The Bizarre Adventure of Toyota
Toyota was founded in 1937 by Kiichiro Toyoda as a spinoff of the Toyoda Automatic Loom Works, entering the automotive industry with a vision of producing reliable, affordable vehicles for the masses. The company’s first car, the Toyota AA, debuted in 1936, laying the foundation for its future success. After World War II, Toyota adopted lean manufacturing principles and developed the Toyota Production System (TPS), which revolutionized global manufacturing with its emphasis on efficiency and quality control. In the 1960s, Toyota expanded internationally, introducing models like the Corolla (1966), which became the world’s best-selling car. The company later pioneered hybrid technology with the launch of the Prius (1997), the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. Today, Toyota remains a leader in automotive innovation, reliability, and sustainability, with its GR performance lineup, advanced hybrid systems, and new EV models like the bZ4X, continuing its mission to build vehicles for a better future. 🚗🌱
Nissan's Performance Excellence
Nissan was founded in 1933 as the Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., though its origins trace back to Kaishinsha Motor Car Works (1911), Japan’s first car manufacturer. Early on, Nissan produced vehicles under the Datsun name, gaining popularity with affordable, reliable cars like the Datsun 510. In the 1960s, Nissan made a global impact with the launch of the 240Z (1969), a stylish, high-performance sports car that offered impressive performance at an affordable price, particularly in the U.S. Nissan also became a motorsport powerhouse with the Skyline GT-R, earning the nickname "Godzilla" for its dominance in racing. In the 1990s, Nissan pioneered electric vehicle technology with the Tama Electric Car and later the Nissan LEAF (2010), the world's best-selling electric vehicle at the time. Today, Nissan is known for its innovative engineering, performance-focused NISMO division, and advancements in EVs and autonomous technology, while continuing its legacy with models like the GT-R R35 and the Ariya electric crossover. ⚡🏎️
Lexus' sport and style
Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, was established in 1989 with the goal of creating world-class luxury vehicles to compete with established European brands. The brand's debut model, the LS 400, impressed the automotive world with its refined V8 engine, exceptional build quality, and smooth ride, setting new standards in the luxury segment. Lexus quickly gained a reputation for reliability, comfort, and innovative technology, expanding its lineup with popular models like the ES, RX, and GS. In the 2000s, Lexus introduced performance-focused models under the F division, such as the LFA supercar with a Yamaha-tuned V10 engine. More recently, Lexus has embraced electrification with its Lexus Hybrid Drive and Lexus RZ EV, combining luxury with sustainability. Today, Lexus remains synonymous with premium craftsmanship, advanced technology, and unparalleled reliability in the global luxury car market. 🚗💎
Mazda's Jinba Ittai
Mazda was founded in 1920 in Hiroshima, Japan, originally as Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd., producing cork and later transitioning to machine tools and vehicles. The company introduced its first car, the Mazda R360 microcar, in 1960, marking its entry into the automotive world. Mazda gained global recognition with its development of the rotary engine, culminating in the Cosmo Sport (1967) and later the legendary RX-7. In 1991, Mazda became the first Japanese manufacturer to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the rotary-powered 787B. The brand also revolutionized the lightweight sports car market with the launch of the MX-5 Miata (1989), which remains the world’s best-selling two-seater sports car. Today, Mazda is known for its "Jinba Ittai" philosophy, focusing on a harmonious connection between car and driver, and continues to innovate with its SkyActiv technology and modern designs while staying true to its fun-to-drive ethos.