1991 Honda Beat

History

Originally designed by Pininfarina, Honda bought the rights to build the car and called it the Beat.The idea was to produce a kei car, or the smallest possible vehicle that can be built while meeting road safety requirements. Powered by an engine under a certain size, the entire package allows customers to enjoy a huge level of efficiency and avoid certain taxes on overall vehicle size and engine displacement. Initially a hit, it was introduced in 1991, which was also the year with the highest number sold – sales quickly slid after that, until the car ceased production in 1996. With a transversely mounted rear engine driving the rear wheels, the diminutive roadster proved to be a fun car that revved freely and provided spirited performance.

This 1991 Beat has been with the seller for 18 months and shows just 54,514 km (33,873 miles), roughly 500 of which the seller added during their time with the car. Sporting the original engine, the car was imported from Japan to Alberta where it resided for 10 years. The seller bought the car in 2020, passed inspection and safety at the SAAQ and registered it. Repainted in the factory color, even the side vents, which should be yellow, were shot and painted black. The previous owner did all the work himself, so service records are scarce, but the car is going in for service in February 2022 which will include an oil and filter change.