1991 Honda Beat E-PP1
As fun as a supercar at a fraction of the cost! The Honda Beat mini midship roadster.
| Year: | 1991 |
| Make: | Honda |
| Model: | Beat E-PP1 |
| Mileage: | 75,497km |
| Fuel Type: | Gasoline |
| Drivetrain: | RWD |
| Engine: | 660cc |
| VIN Number: | PP1-1001*** |
The Honda Beat is a cross between a Honda NSX and go kart, and the most beloved JDM minicar ever produced.
Now that first-generation Honda Beats have reached their 25th birthday, Americans can finally discover what they’ve been missing all these years by importing Honda Beats from Japan under the 25-year rule.
The Beat was designed by Pininfarina and developed by a particularly young and passionate team of Honda engineers. It was also the last automobile Soichiro Honda the founder of Honda ever approved for production.
When released in 1991, the Beat stole the hearts of millions and sold like hotcakes in the Japanese market until a major recession took its toll. After producing two domestic models and selling fewer than 34,000 units in 6 years, Honda sold the design to MG (which used it to produce the MG F) and ended production of the Beat in 1996.
Despite boundless enthusiasm from an ever-hopeful fan base, Honda never released another Beat. However, Honda did launch its spiritual successor, the S660, in 2015. Both cars are tax-friendly minicars from Japan’s domestic “kei” car category that limits specifications to a maximum 3.4m length, 1.5m width, 660cc engine displacement, 63hp output and 87mph vehicle speed.
When these specifications were released in 1990 together with tax and insurance incentives for driving kei cars, Japanese car makers launched numerous models with performance-enhancing features like turbos, superchargers, 4-wheel drive and 4-wheel steering. But Honda matched their performance without resorting to such technologies.
The Beat’s naturally aspirated 656cc E07A engine with 3 inline cylinders, 12 valves and a single overhead camshaft is basically borrowed from a JDM Honda Today. However, it features an 8,500 redline, 10:1 compression ratio and drive-by-wire MTREC (Multi Throttle Responsive Engine Control) with one throttle valve per cylinder for smoother intake, sharper throttle response and more linear power delivery.
The engine revs high like a motorcycle’s with an exciting 3-cylinder rumble that combines with the low riding height and wind flowing through your hair to make driving feel fast and exciting. This is partially an illusion, since the maximum 63hp (47kW) at 8100 rpm actually takes anywhere from 9 to 13 seconds to propel the Beat from 0 to 60 mph. But the adrenaline rush is real.
While top speed is electronically limited to 84 mph (135 km/h), you can remove the limiter and enjoy freeway driving at over 100 mph. Torque is 44 lbft (60Nm, 6.1kgm) at 7000 rpm.
Honda mounted the engine transversely just above the rear axle and slightly to the left to make room for a right-mounted 24-liter fuel tank. While the tank is small, the highly fuel-efficient Beat delivers anywhere from 40 to 60mpg (17.0 to 27.0 km/liter) depending on how gently you rev the engine.
The monocoque body, the world’s first in a midship convertible, is extremely lightweight (around 750kg / 1,650 lbs) yet extraordinarily stiff thanks to a box style floor tunnel and dual-structure side sills.
Its classic lines strike an attractive balance of simplicity and sportiness, with headlights that sweep back into the sides; a soft top that folds like an accordion and buckles down with a handsome cover; sporty door lines that merge in a subtle intake vent; 13-inch front and 14-inch rear wheels in standard steel or optional alloy; and a simple rounded tail with engine vents and a low spoiler that barely interrupts the body’s smooth lines.
There is also a small “Beat” logo on the side of the vehicle with the words “Midship Amusement” expressing the fun-to-drive concept, a quirky reminder that the Beat was built for the Japanese market.
Storage is limited to a small area under the hood shared with the spare tire and wiper fluid, a small area in the trunk shared with the battery and midship engine, a tiny glove box in the dashboard, a magazine rack behind the seats and very little more. But Honda reserved spacious dimensions for the driver and passenger.
Even taller than average men drive so comfortably in the supportive bucket seats that the white tiger upholstery starts looking attractive after a few drives. The standalone instrument cluster, seemingly straight from a superbike, features a sporty speedometer and tachometer with red lettering on white backgrounds as well as a redline extending from 8,500 to 10,000 revolutions! The five-on-the-floor stick shift on the slim center console features such tight throws that you can practically shift with a flick of your fingers. The engine is noisy, but it makes you feel like you’re driving a racing car.
Handling is simply fantastic. Every turn is a pleasure because the Beat handles like a go kart with very tight steering, a low center of gravity, midship-enhanced balance, a front stabilizer and MacPerson struts at all four wheels. Not only can you slip into smaller parking spaces along busy roads, but you can do it effortlessly.
Despite the deceptively frugal design, Honda didn’t skimp on standard amenities, which include air conditioning, power windows, 3-point seatbelts and an excellent audio system with CD player. The driver’s side airbag is optional.
The “MTREC” message on the doorstep and “Open Air Motoring” message on the floor mats are further JDM reminders that you’re driving something very special never intended for foreign markets.
This fun little Honda Beat in Honda racing red is in outstanding condition with all original parts and no modifications. The owner gave it regular maintenance and extra care to minimize wear and tear. Considering the great driving pleasure Honda Beats can bring, you may be surprised at how affordably they can be imported directly from Japan.
At Japan Car Direct, we can help you find the best deals in Japan through our vast network of connections with specialist dealers, private sellers and auctions. We can also arrange a trustworthy inspection and have your vehicle exported to your nearest port — anywhere in the world.
Whether you’re an American taking advantage of the 25-year rule to purchase a Honda Beat, an enthusiast in the UK seeking a high-performance JDM drift car, or an Australian looking for a German luxury car with left or right hand drive, JCD can help you realize your dream affordably and with ease.
Japan Car Direct provides friendly, honest, efficient service. Get the vehicles you want today at a price you can afford!!
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Browse through a selection of vehicles that we have recently sold and exported.
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I'd been looking to buy an RF series Honda Stepwagon to convert into a mini camper for a while but the UK prices always seemed too high. I had joined a few JDM import sites to get an idea of auction prices and costs (including Japan Car Direct) but just couldn't bring myself to take the next step, it seemed such a risk ! Finally after reading so many good reviews for JCD (and Mathew in particular) I took the plunge and contacted Mathew. After he answered my many questions regarding costs, fees etc I felt confident enough to pay the deposit and start hunting the Japanese auctions for my Steppy. My budget for the Steppy was pretty low (pathetic even !) but I felt Mat still put the same effort into replying to my questions and queries as he would have done if my budget had been into the tens of thousands. The result was I now have a very tidy Stepwagon with lower mileage than any vehicle I've ever owned, I've paid far less for it then I would have done buying in the UK and I've got a bigger budget now for the camper conversion. I wouldn't hesitate to buy through them again, and hope to do so soon. 
Matt B
9/30/2019 5 star experience from start to finish. Transparent and easy process, and Mat was very patient to answer plenty of questions I had during the purchase! Can’t wait to do it again because the Japanese cars from this era are pure automotive art and these guys hold the keys to the museum! 
Ross C
9/13/2019 After an initial inquiry several years ago, I still wanted to get a Japanese Delica or Hiace. Matthew was immediately in contact and helped with all the details. His videos were perfect for my search. Matthew was able to answer all of my questions and my wife and I were able to make decisions based on the great information he provided. I would recommend Japan Car Direct to anyone interested in getting the right car at the best price. Zach Matheson
8/27/2019 - The staff at Japan Car Direct made what I thought would a a difficult process very easy. Matt explained every step thoroughly and his advice on details of cars was spot on.
nick creece
8/20/2019 I imported a van though JCD and they made the process super straightforward. They were amazing at communicating and quick to answer any of my questions. If you are looking to import a car I would highly recommended them. William Bender
8/02/2019 Awesome experience !!
Their service was extremely good and efficient. Yoshiro was soo patient with my many requests for information and translations. The vehicle purchased was better than expected. I would definitely consider using their services again. 
Rafael Cuadros
5/20/2019 - All I can say about the experience is AMAZING! I worked with Matthew and he was helpful through the whole process of bidding, purchasing, and shipping the car to me. He had an answer for every question, and was always quick to respond.
Enjoying my new Mercedes and I will be using them again!
chris casali
5/15/2019 All around exceptional experience! Matt was great to work with and guided me through the entire process with ease. As a first timer, importing was a bit nerve racking but JCD did a great job providing a cool little truck I can enjoy here in Delaware. I look forward to picking up the next toy/vehicle through them. 
Jesse Wencius
5/14/2019 The experienced, grizzled veterans of the import scene. They were very accommodating with all my questions and concerns. It was my first time importing, so everything was confusing and intimidating, but I'm happy to report everything went as planned! I'm definitely calling them back when I finally come up with an excuse to import another! 
Joey Rodriguez
4/12/2019 - Mathew was great to work with and made what could be a scary daunting experience very easy. I am super happy with my car and am sure I will be importing with them again!
Kayla D'Ambrosi
3/18/2019 Working with Mathew and his team was an absolute pleasure. I went from never knowing you could import your own vehicle to owning my own Suzuki Cara within 6 months. Mathew was so helpful and completely transparent with me during the entire process. We spoke on the phone and via email and he helped me pick the perfect car exactly within my requirements. He dealt with my excitement and inexperience with patience and understanding. I couldn't be happier with my experience and will absolutely use Japan Car Direct again when it's time for another project. I highly recommend Mathew and Japan Car Direct. 
Tristan Gilbert
3/05/2019 Just purchased my second car through Japan Car Direct. Could not be more pleased with their customer service. Matt went above and beyond to help me find the right car. Translating countless auction sheets, messaging sellers, requesting vehicle inspections, putting up with me and my requests well after his time in the office, etc. I can happily and honestly say that I would recommend this company to anyone looking to purchase a car from Japan and that you will not be dissappinted. Very kind, helpful and professional. Can’t wait for vehicle number 3. 
Tanner Himmel
2/23/2019 - Mathew and the team are amazing. Bought my first Porsche in Japan and they have helped me all the way through. They are competent and honest people, will definitely be doing more business with them. Thanks guys!
Dami Eugi
2/13/2019 Mat is is the best he was right on target and video descriptions are perfect. Shipping was alot faster than I thought it would be, as JCD didn't mess around. My van was at port and ready to go.
I will be using JCD again soon, got my van now I want a car. 
Lee Frye
1/22/2019 I hunted the internet for a broker I could trust with my money. JDC won and I am so happy I went with them. Matt and Yoshi are great. Matt puts up with a very demanding customer in me, I can certainly take up time. Matt sends me cars from the list I sent him, when I don't have time to check the auction. It is scary how accurate Matt is when I ask him to predict a selling price. He is always very close which sometimes is not fun but he really does know pricing. They have walked we through buying two cars now and have held my hand on both. I really apricate all the time and knowledge. After purchase they have also held my hand through the whole import process which can be daunting for a first timer. I am a dealer and Matt is great at suggesting other cars to import as well. I am very satisfied with my choice 
John Holmes
1/19/2019
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