1991 | Honda Beat

Highlights:

• One previous owner
• Well-maintained
• Kei Car

Make & Model History:

Small Giant from Japan: The Honda Beat – Cult Roadster of the 90s

Among the small, agile roadsters that took Japan’s streets by storm in the 90s, few have sparked as much enthusiasm as the Honda Beat. Built by Honda between May 1991 and February 1996, this charismatic sports car embodies the essence of the Kei Car class: compact dimensions, impressive power, and tax benefits. However, the Beat was not just another Kei Car. It’s an homage to pure driving pleasure and a testament to Honda’s engineering legacy.

A Unique Powerhouse: The MTREC Three-Cylinder

Under the hood lies a truly thrilling heart: a 656 cc three-cylinder petrol engine delivering a respectable 47 kW (64 hp) at 7,800 rpm. This power was the maximum allowed for Kei Cars at the time, and Honda pushed this engine to its limits. The MTREC system (Multi Throttle Responsive Engine Control) offers especially responsive throttle control and precision, with each cylinder having its own throttle body. This setup brings the Beat alive at higher RPMs, giving it a sporty sound that’s more reminiscent of racing than a small car. The mid-engine placement, just ahead of the rear axle, provides near-perfect weight distribution and excellent handling.

Kei Car Meets Roadster: A New Concept

The Honda Beat and its strongest competitor, the Suzuki Cappuccino, were the first roadsters to take advantage of the Kei Car class. Kei Cars were rewarded with tax breaks and insurance reductions in Japan, but Honda had more than just economy in mind with the Beat. Equipped with a crisp manual transmission and available only in Japan, the Beat quickly became a sought-after collector’s item. Its production was strictly limited – only 33,600 units were built, adding to its iconic status.

When production of the Honda Beat ended, it seemed the chapter of Kei roadsters had closed. But in 2003, Daihatsu revived the small roadster spirit with the Copen, following the concept Honda and Suzuki had pioneered in the early 90s. However, the Beat remains unique—a piece of Japanese automotive history that combines passion and precision in a small, agile package.

Condition & History:

This Honda Beat is in pristine condition and accident-free. It comes with air conditioning, and electric windows. The owner recently added new tires and a new battery, and everything else is original. Registered as a classic, it has had only one previous owner.