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.
Buying Tips
- Rust is the biggest enemy of these cars. Thoroughly inspect the floor pans, rocker panels, suspension mounting points, and the frame around the rear glass hatch.
- The air-cooled 2-cylinder engine is simple but parts are scarce. Check for oil leaks, smoke from the exhaust, and listen for timing chain noise.
- Many trim pieces, rubber seals, and interior plastics are unique to the Z and extremely difficult to find. A complete car is far more valuable and easier to own than a project needing rare parts.
- Verify the car's history and registration status. Many Zs in the US have cloudy import histories or were brought in from Canada, which can complicate titling.
Based on 81 recent sales, prices range from $1,600 for projects to a high of $33,500 for exceptional examples.
100 Honda Z 1st Gen vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 8 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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