Isuzu Impulse
The Isuzu Impulse is a Japanese sport compact famed for its crisp, Giorgetto Giugiaro-penned Italian design. It's a unique collector's find, with early models featuring a rear-wheel drive layout before a later switch to front-wheel drive.
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2 listed in the past year. The last was 2 weeks ago.
Isuzu Impulse prices by year
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
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The Isuzu Impulse began as the striking Ace of Clubs concept car penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro. Isuzu put the design into production with few changes, resulting in a standout Japanese sport compact. The first generation (1983-1989) was rear-wheel drive, while the second generation (1990-1992) switched to a General Motors front-wheel drive platform, though it retained a distinctive hatchback design.
Collectors value the Impulse for its crisp Italian styling and unique features. Later first-generation cars, starting in 1988, received a revised suspension with "Handling by Lotus" tuning, which makes them particularly desirable. The ultimate prize is the second-generation Impulse RS, which combined a 160 hp turbocharged engine with a sophisticated passive-steering all-wheel-drive system.
The market for the Impulse is small, with few examples trading hands publicly. Average prices hover under $9,000, making it an accessible classic. However, the top of the market approaches $19,000, a value reserved for exceptionally clean and rare variants like the RS Turbo AWD.
Buying Tips
- Inspect for rust, especially in the rocker panels, around the wheel wells, and under the battery tray.
- Test all electronics. The unique "satellite" control pods can be difficult to repair, and parts are scarce.
- On turbo models, check for smoke on startup and listen for any unusual noises, which could indicate a failing turbocharger.
- Verify the authenticity of "Handling by Lotus" models (1988-1989); don't just rely on the badge.
- For the rare second-gen RS, ensure the all-wheel-drive system engages properly as parts are nearly impossible to find.
Prices for the Isuzu Impulse range from $2,500 for projects to $18,940 for pristine, low-mileage examples.
23 Isuzu Impulse vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 1 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Isuzu Impulse listings are for sale right now?
There is 1 Isuzu Impulse listing currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.