Honda Z 1st Gen

The Honda Z debuted in 1970 as a sporty coupe variant of the N-series sedan. Marketed as the Z600 in the United States and Z360 in its home market of Japan, it featured an air-cooled 2-cylinder engine and distinctive 'coke bottle' styling. Its most notable design element is the large glass rear hatch surrounded by a thick black plastic frame, which earned it the nickname 'TV set' car. The Z offered a more stylish alternative to Honda's other microcars and helped establish the brand's reputation for clever engineering in small packages.

Collectors appreciate the Z for its unique design, historical significance as one of Honda's first cars in America, and its sheer fun factor. It's a tiny car that gets a surprising amount of attention wherever it goes. Because it was built in relatively small numbers and was prone to rust, finding a solid example today can be challenging. This rarity, combined with its undeniable charm, keeps it desirable among microcar enthusiasts and early Honda collectors.

The market for the Honda Z is relatively stable, with an average price hovering under $7,000 for driver-quality cars. Project cars can be found for much less, but restoration costs can quickly add up due to parts scarcity. Pristine, fully restored, or low-mileage examples represent the top of the market, occasionally selling for over $30,000 to serious collectors.

Based on 81 recent sales, prices range from $1,600 for projects to a high of $33,500 for exceptional examples.