North America was never privy to the Kei class of micro cars that Japanese automakers unleashed on their domestic market. Part of that makes sense: most Americans do highway driving, and most highway driving here is fast, hard and furious; in other words, impractical for all but the biggest and toughest of cars. On the other hand, there is something undeniably alluring about the compact dimensions, frugality and efficiency of cars like the Honda City.
The is a first generation City that debuted in 1981. The body was designed to be as tall as possible to fit four seated adults comfortably. It is over 6 inches shorter than the Civic of the same time.
Styling takes inspiration from the classic subcompact cars of Austin Cooper and Fiat but with a stark and an angular twist. No space is wasted, and everything is placed where it should be.
This particular example is the coveted Turbo II, which feature a wider track, flared fenders, special paint and matching alloy wheels. Underneath the hood is a turbocharged 1,231cc inline 4-cylinder ER engine that produces 108 horsepower to the front wheels.
It was also available with the Honda Motocampo, a tiny foldaway scooter that fit in the trunk. The seller has one such Motocampo and will include it in the sale for the right price. I can't ascertain whether it was the original unit sold with the vehicle or not, but it could be a neat inclusion if it's of use to the next owner.
The City was never officially sold in North America, so it's extremely unusual to see one here. The seller says this example was imported in 1987 and has a VIN from New Hampshire and a clear title and registration from Arizona.
The seller says they have restored the vehicle and it now has new fluids, timing belt, water pump and fuel system cleaned.
This is a rare car in above average condition. Japanese car collector's take extra notice.
Available here on ebay in Phoenix, Arizona with a Buy-It-Now of $15,000 and the Make Offer option.
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