Honda S800 Coupe
(Featured on 29th March 2013)
Make: Honda
Model: S800
Sellers original description:
Model History:
Introduced at the 1965 Tokyo Motor Show, the S800 would replace the successful Honda S600 as the company's image car and would compete with the Austin-Healey Sprite, MG Midget, Triumph Spitfire and Fiat 850 Spider. Officially available in the UK from 1967 it was Honda’s first 100 mph car but still allowing for 35 mpg. In April 1967 the car was described as the fastest production 1-litre car in the world thanks to its high revving engine (up to 10,000 rpm). Production ended in May 1970. (Source Wikipedia and Honda S800 Sports Car Club).
Equipment:
Rubber mounted bodyshell, detachable chrome bumpers, padded dash, anti-dazzle instrument panel, fresh-air recirculating heating, electric windscreen washer, two-speed windscreen washer, laminated windscreen, headlamp flasher, automatic reversing lamps, lockable steering, glove-box and petrol cap, wood-rim steering wheel, external mirror, courtesy light, centre arm rest.
Exterior:
Finished in stunning Honda Silverstone Silver this rare marvel generates a fabulous reaction by all onlookers. A classic, timeless design with elegant proportions but purposeful sporting intentions. A wonderful polished shine graces the exterior which benefitted from a full body off restoration in 2000 and has only covered 5000 miles since. The chrome bumpers were removed from new to reduce weight for competitions and these remain with the car should the new owner wish to refit and return the original look. Always garaged but showing minor blisters to wing bottoms and a few paint blemishes. The separate structural chassis is perfect and there are no corrosion issues. Detailed photographs of all work carried out are included to reassure the new owner how sound and genuine this historic Honda is.
Interior:
Spectacular in every respect with supportive black leatherette seats in impeccable condition. The carpeting throughout is wear free, still with the neat outer stitching detail and the matching door cards are spotless. The grey headlining is tight and in remarkable condition. All the gauges operate with precision and have amazing clarity. The standard fit wood-rim steering wheel continues the theme of quality and remains undamaged. The courtesy light is inoperative and a later fit radio/cassette, although wired, has never had speakers fitted. An interior representative of the low miles covered.
Engine & Transmission:
The jewel of a Honda S800 is the engine. A well maintained properly set up example is like no other experience and a must drive for all motoring enthusiasts. Double overhead camshafts, two twin-choke carburettors, needle-roller bearing crankshaft and an amazing 70bhp at 8000rpm all from 791cc! Incredibly, a consistent 35mpg is still being achieved while immense fun is being had! The 4-speed manual transmission shames modern offerings with short, precise and beautifully balanced changes time after time.
Wheels, Tyres & Brakes:
Shortly after purchase upgraded Cosmic 13 X 4 1/2J alloy wheels were fitted and these are still retained in excellent condition shod in new AVON CR322 165/70 R13 tyres. The original factory fit steel rims and Honda chrome hubcaps are still included with Michelin XAS tyres. The front discs and finned rear drums offer consistent, safe stopping power.
History File:
Supplied by Honda UK Agents, Haymill Motors Ltd on the 2nd May 1967 to a Mr Paul Barnes, a personal friend of the current owner who has known the car from new! The green Buff Registration Book is still retained showing a total of just three owners, all good friends! Used mainly by the first owner and current owner in competitive events with much success, this prime example has been cherished by him for nearly 40 years and has been impeccably maintained. Many period photos, trophies, rosettes remain as a reminder of great times. A fully documented and photographic restoration was carried out in 2000/01 and the mileage of just 67,901 is warranted. Many invoices and original booklets are included such as the Service Booklet, Workshop Manual and an original brochure from point of sale. The new owner will take reassurance that the current custodian is at hand to discuss any element of this fascinating cars history.
Photos:
