Honda Z600 – 1971

Honda was becoming increasingly well-known in the USA for its line of fun and reliable motorcycles in the 1950s. The N600 was the first sedan Honda sold in the United States in 1967. The same car with a smaller 360cc engine satisfied Japan’s Kei (light automobile) class, and was popular there. Both engine sizes were based on Honda’s 1965 CB 450 motorcycle engine. In the case of the 360cc engine, the motor displacement was decreased, and the 600cc engine was an enlargement of the motorcycle engine. All Honda coupes that were imported to the US had the larger 600cc engine because of the higher speeds and longer distances inherent to America’s wide open landscape.

The Z600 coupe was introduced in 1970 as a slightly sportier version of the N600 sedan. It was nicknamed “the ski boot” or “the clown shoe” by some. The Z600 remained in production until 1974, although importation stopped in 1973 to make room for the new Honda Civic. Sales were good, with about 41,000 coupes and sedans being sold in the United States from 1967-1972.

Specifications:

Manufacturer:  Honda Motor Co. Ltd., Tokyo

Country of Origin:  Japan

Drivetrain Configuration:  Front engine, front wheel drive

Engine:  597cc, 2-cylinder, air-cooled,36 HP

Transmission:  4 speed manual

Top Speed:  75 MPH

Years of Production:  1970-1974

Number Produced:  15,500 (Z600 coupe)

Original Cost:  $1,630.00