When you hear the name Honda Beat, you might think of either the iconic 1990s sports car or the popular scooter dominating Southeast Asian streets. In this blog post, we will explore both versions of the Honda Beat: the compact sports car and the scooter.
The Honda Beat Micro Sports Car (1991-1996)
The sports car is a famous model that was manufactured from 1991 to 1996. It belongs to the kei car category, which includes small, lightweight vehicles that were very popular in Japan.
Key Specs of the Sports Car
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 656 cc, 3-cylinder, naturally aspirated |
| Power | 63 hp (47 kW) |
| Torque | 59 Nm (43.5 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Top Speed | 140 km/h (87 mph) |
| 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) | 13.7 seconds |
| Dimensions | Length: 3,295 mm (129.7 inches) |
| Width: 1,395 mm (54.9 inches) | |
| Height: 1,225 mm (48.2 inches) | |
| Weight | 700 kg (1,543 lbs) |
| Fuel Economy | 20-25 km/l (47-59 mpg) |
Design and Styling: A Timeless Classic
It featured a sleek, low-slung body with sharp lines and compact proportions. The car’s design was inspired by the iconic Honda S600 and also a car that was well-known in the 1960s.
It had a convertible roof, allowing drivers to enjoy an open-air driving experience. The car’s headlights were round, giving it a playful and approachable look.
Honda Beat Exterior Features
- Lightweight Construction: The Honda Beat used lightweight materials to keep the car agile and quick.
- Stylish Wheels: It came with 13-inch wheels that added to its sporty appearance.
- Pop-Up Headlights: A unique feature that made the Honda Beat stand out from other cars of its time.
- Convertible Roof: The soft top allowed for an open-air driving experience, making it perfect for sunny days.
Honda Beat Performance and Driving Experience
The Honda Beat was a very fun car to drive. It had a small, 656cc engine that produced just 63 horsepower. While this might not sound like much, it was enough to make the car feel quick and nimble. The lightweight design and small engine made the car ideal for city driving, and the 5-speed manual transmission gave the driver full control of the performance.
Despite its size, the Honda Beat could reach speeds of up to 140 km/h (87 mph) and could accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 13.7 seconds. This was impressive for a car of its size and class.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Honda Beat was basic but comfortable enough for a small sports car. It had two seats, which made it perfect for a driver and a passenger. The dashboard was simple, with all the essential controls in easy reach.
The small cabin meant there wasn’t much space for luggage or personal items, but it was ideal for city driving or weekend trips.
Pros and Cons of the Honda Beat Micro Sports Car
Pros:
- Compact Size: Easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces.
- Fun to Drive: Lightweight and sporty, making it enjoyable on twisty roads.
- Unique Design: The pop-up headlights and convertible roof make the Beat stand out.
- Efficient Fuel Economy: Great fuel economy for its time, ideal for city commutes.
Cons:
- Limited Space: Only two seats and very little cargo room.
- Not Ideal for Long Trips: The small size and limited comfort make long drives less enjoyable.
- Expensive to Maintain: Being a classic car, it can be costly to maintain or restore.
The Honda Beat Scooter
The Honda Beat Scooter is very popular in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines and is known for being practical, affordable, and fuel-efficient.
Key Specs of the Honda Beat Scooter
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 108 cc, single-cylinder |
| Power | 6.4 hp (4.8 kW) |
| Torque | 8.8 Nm (6.5 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | Automatic (CVT) |
| Top Speed | 90 km/h (56 mph) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 4.0 liters (1.1 gallons) |
| Fuel Economy | 50-60 km/l (118-142 mpg) |
| Dimensions | Length: 1,877 mm (73.9 inches) |
| Width: 669 mm (26.3 inches) | |
| Height: 1,058 mm (41.6 inches) | |
| Weight | 94 kg (207 lbs) |
Design and Styling: Modern and Practical
The Honda Beat scooter has a modern design that is both practical and stylish. It features sleek lines and a compact body, making it easy to navigate through busy streets. The scooter has a sharp, angular front end that gives it a futuristic look.
The headlights are modern and bright, providing good visibility while riding. The scooter is available in a variety of colors, making it easy for riders to choose a look that suits their personality.
Engine Performance and Fuel Economy
The Honda Beat scooter is powered by a 108cc single-cylinder engine that produces about 6.4 horsepower.
One of the best features of the Honda Beat is its fuel economy. It can deliver up to 50-60 km/l (118-142 mpg), which makes it extremely cost-effective for daily use. The automatic CVT transmission makes it easy for riders to focus on the road without worrying about shifting gears.
Comfort and Convenience
It comes with a spacious seat, and it is ideal for both short and long rides. The large under-seat storage offers enough space to store your helmet, bag, or groceries, which is perfect for daily use.
The ride quality is smooth, and the scooter’s small size makes it very easy to handle, especially in heavy traffic. The scooter’s lightweight design ensures that it is easy to park, even in crowded areas.
Pros and Cons of the Honda Beat Scooter
Pros:
- Great Fuel Economy: Very affordable to run, especially for city commuting.
- Compact and Lightweight: Easy to maneuver through traffic and park in tight spaces.
- Stylish Design: Modern look that appeals to younger riders.
- Affordable Price: One of the most budget-friendly scooters in its class.
Cons:
- Limited Power: Not suitable for long highway trips or carrying heavy loads.
- Small Storage Space: While there is storage under the seat, it’s not enough for larger items.
FAQs
1. What is the top speed of the Honda Beat sports car?
The sports car can reach a top speed of 140 km/h (87 mph).
2. Is the Honda Beat scooter fuel-efficient?
Yes, the scooter is very fuel-efficient, with an average of 50-60 km/l (118-142 mpg).
3. What is the engine size of the Honda Beat sports car?
The sports car features a 656cc, 3-cylinder engine.
4. Can the Honda Beat sports car be used for long trips?
The sports car is more suited for city driving and short trips. It lacks space and comfort for long-distance driving.
Conclusion
The Honda Beat has earned a special place in the hearts of car and scooter enthusiasts alike. Whether it is the fun-to-drive sports car or the practical and fuel-efficient scooter, the Honda Beat continues to be a popular choice. The scooter remains a top choice for daily commuters in Southeast Asia. Both versions of the Honda Beat prove that small can be mighty when it comes to style, performance, and efficiency.