This Small Honda Sports Car Gives the Sensation of a Motorcycle with Four Wheels | Carscoops

      A lightweight S800 M coupe featuring a high-revving engine and a recent restoration is set to go up for auction in Japan shortly.

      The vehicle is equipped with a 791cc engine that produces 69 hp.

      Initially delivered to Belgium, this Honda S800 has since returned to Japan where it underwent a comprehensive restoration.

      While you may not encounter many Honda S800 M Coupes on the roads today, car enthusiasts who appreciate small, lightweight Japanese sports cars should take a closer look at this one.

      Compact and full of character, the coupe version was designed with exports in mind, competing with the likes of the Austin-Healey Sprite and Triumph Spitfire. It is arguably more engaging than anything Honda currently offers.

      This diminutive sports car is scheduled to be auctioned in Japan this January, with the possibility for international export available. Although originally intended for the Belgian market, it eventually returned to Japan where it received a complete restoration.

      Thanks to this restoration, the car maintains its factory appearance from 1968, which explains why it is anticipated to sell for between 7-9 million yen (approximately $44,000 to $57,000 based on current exchange rates).

      Tiny Engine with a Big Personality

      Power is generated by a small 791 cc (0.8-liter) naturally aspirated inline-four engine, originally rated at 69 horsepower. While modest by today's benchmarks, this power is sufficient for the S800 to reach speeds of 99 mph (160 km/h). However, the true appeal lies in the driving experience.

      The notable feature of this engine is its high-revving nature, a characteristic stemming from Honda's motorcycle engineering heritage. The S800’s engine could exceed 8,500 rpm, with some models reportedly reaching 9,500 rpm. It is a spirited little engine, always eager to reach its redline.

      Additionally, the S800 is incredibly lightweight, weighing in at only 1,587 lbs (720 kg), making it an exhilarating ride on twisty mountain roads. The small engine is paired with a four-speed manual transmission that drives the rear wheels.

      The design also exudes a genuine dose of 1960s charm. Despite the petite engine, the S800 features an unexpectedly long hood, highlighted by a distinct bulge on the passenger side. Chrome accents are abundant, gracing the headlights, outlining the grille, and encircling the rear bumper. It sits on a stunning set of small black wheels that complement its proportions perfectly.

      The odometer shows just 66,438 kilometers (41,282 miles), which is remarkably low for a car of this age. This, along with the restoration, makes it an appealing choice for collectors or anyone interested in acquiring a piece of Japan's sports car legacy.

      For those enamored with small engines and high redlines, this little Honda might just be your perfect dream car. Don’t miss the opportunity to view the listing before someone with a better eye snatches it up first.