Kei automobiles are synonymous with Japan. The
very first ones began popping up within the 1950’s after the conflict ended. It was a
approach for automakers to get extra clients. These tiny automobiles resulted in decrease
costs and smaller street taxes for the Japanese folks. Through the years, the Kei
automotive has developed fairly a cult following and are actually very wanted right here in
North America.
Now we have curated an inventory of the High 5 Kei automobiles that are actually out there for import.
Mazda Autozam AZ-1
The AZ-1 was Mazda’s reply to the tiny sports activities automotive motion in Japan within the early 90’s. This scaled-down model of a mid-engine, RWD automotive had all of the DNA of a supercar, simply on a smaller scale. It was fitted with a 660cc engine from Suzuki tht produced a whopping 66hp. This may not sound like a lot, however when you think about that it solely weighed round 1,500 lbs, the AZ-1 might positively maintain its personal.
They’re turning into more and more rarer as Autozam solely made 5000 of them. Persons are drawn to its distinctive styling and compact measurement. The truth that they’re now out there for import is simply going to drive the worth up, so snag one up when you can.
View Mazda Autozam AZ-1 Listings For Sale
Suzuki Cappuccino
Suzuki constructed this nice little automotive between 1991-1998. Sticking inside the Kei automotive guidelines, it got here with a 657cc turbocharged, three-cylinder engine that made 63hp. Couple that with the right 50/50 weight distribution and also you’ve obtained your self a correct sports activities automotive.
The Cappuccino took cues from many
full-size automobiles of that period. As you possibly can in all probability inform, it appeared so much like
the Mazda Miata. As well as, the folding roof could possibly be taken aside to disclose
both a T-top or Targa-top, similar to Porsches of that point interval. It was
this hanging design that saved it in manufacturing longer than its rivals.
Seize one when you can, because the Cappuccino is slowly turning into a future collectible.
Read our Cappuccino Buying Guide
View Suzuki Cappuccino Listings For Sale
Honda Beat
After all, Honda couldn’t be disregarded of this record. They produced their very own model of the pint-sized automotive. Produced from 1991-1996, the Beat featured a 656cc inline-three engine which pumped our 63hp at a tremendous 8100 rpm.
It wasn’t significantly quick, but it surely was certain to place a smile in your face each time you drove it. And now that it’s over 25-years outdated, it’s out there for import Stateside. Get your fingers on one when you can, as a result of Honda fanboys might be grabbing these shortly.
Read our Honda Beat Buying Guide
View Honda Beat Listings For Sale
Nissan Figaro
This retro-inspired Kei automotive was produced by Nissan for just one 12 months again in 1991. There was a complete of simply over 20,000 constructed, so discovering one shouldn’t be that troublesome.
It featured a 987cc turbocharged engine from the Nissan March and it produced a good 76hp. The Figaro is unquestionably an acquired style, however in order for you one thing that appears outdated, is half the dimensions, and has expertise from the ’90s, then this automotive is for you!
View Nissan Figaro Listings For Sale
Daihatsu Hijet
This little workhorse was in manufacturing from the 60’s all the way in which as much as 2014. It got here in a number of completely different configurations: from vans to vans, and all the way in which to motorhomes, simply in a smaller measurement.
The seventh-generation may be presently imported to the States. Engines vary from a 547cc inline-three and go all the way in which as much as 1.3L inline four-cylinder. They’re nonetheless common in Japan to this present day because of their compact measurement and also you’ll see many within the truck or van configuration. So, for those who’re on the lookout for a small workhorse in your small enterprise or a compact expedition automobile, then the Daihatsu Hijet is for you.
View Daihatsu Hijet Listings For Sale
Yamaha Ami
Chances are high that you’ll by no means see considered one of
these in particular person, not to mention have the possibility to buy one as there have been solely
three of them ever constructed. Look shut sufficient and also you’ll see a resemblance to the
well-known Ferrari F-40. That’s proper, this little 600cc, 55hp Kei automotive took so much
of stilling cures from the well-known Italian automaker.
We all know that this mini Ferrari F-40 is principally a prototype, however we needed to put it on the record because of the sheer wow issue it has.
We hope that you simply loved this assortment of
the High 5 Kei Automobiles. Make sure to take a look at our different articles presently out
on JDMBuySell.com.
Sources:
- https://www.autocar.co.uk/slideshow/history-kei-car#2
- https://motor-junkie.com/tiny-giants-from-japan-20-greatest-kei-cars-of-all-times/16348/8/
- https://www.hotcars.com/kei-cars-qurky-wish-got-in-america/
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_Figaro
- https://drivetribe.com/p/yamaha-amithe-ferrari-f40-wannabe-MbQ8nyyySFq6cnxwZtCSzw
- https://driving.ca/suzuki/auto-news/information/the-tiny-autozam-az-1-delivers-fun-in-small-doses
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