In regard to the JDM:
* The 'facelift' import started in 96.5 not 97.. and in 97.9 the VVTI engine was introduced, actually the JDM went through quite a few minor changes up to and possibly past 98, but generally they 'facelift is considered to have started in 96.5.
* I've seen a late model JDM SZ-R with traction control.
* The 6 speed / big brakes / wheels was standard fit on the SZ-R in 96.5, not sure when they stopped this wierd version, but it was before 99.
* The JDM SZ-R does not come in aerotop.
* There are 3 types of "JSpec suspension", normal, bilstein and REAS. Off the top of my head REAS was introduced in 98.
* The 'Facelift' imports (SZ, SZ-R, RZ-S) had a new design of cloth seats, not black leather.
* Fold in mirrors were on the 96.5 SZ-Rs, so I would also assume RZ/GZs.
* There is more complexity to the abs systems. But I don't have set dates on when what was introduced.
* Steering wheels. Early model, 3 spoke == no airbag, 4 spoke = airbag. Sometime after 96.5, not exactly sure when: 3 spoke is introduced with bumps above the thumb points and have airbags, RZ models have a carbon fiber finised 3 spoke with airbags. (N.B. The late model steering wheels are alot better).
* There is no JDM VVTI SZ or SZ-R