HJMides

HJMides is a term that refers to a specific, though not widely standardized, classification of mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports cars. The acronym HJ is believed to stand for "High-performance Japanese," implying a focus on vehicles originating from Japanese manufacturers that exhibit sporty characteristics and a particular engine-chassis configuration. The "Mides" part of the term directly denotes the mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout.

This classification is often used in enthusiast communities and automotive forums to group together a select set of vehicles that share these key attributes. Examples that might fall under this umbrella term include iconic models like the Toyota MR2, Honda NSX, and Mazda RX-7 (though the latter's rotary engine placement can sometimes be debated within this specific context). The emphasis is on the dynamic advantages that a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive setup typically provides, such as improved weight distribution and handling balance.

The HJMides designation is not an official manufacturer term or a universally recognized automotive segment. Instead, it is a more informal way for enthusiasts to categorize and discuss vehicles that possess this appealing combination of origin and engineering. The popularity of this term can fluctuate within different online communities, serving as a shorthand for a particular driving experience and design philosophy.