The Honda S800 '66 represents an important milestone in the evolution of Japanese sports cars. Launched in 1966, the S800 was Honda’s answer to the growing demand for nimble, lightweight roadsters. Building on the success of its predecessors, the S500 and S600, the S800 showcased Honda’s engineering prowess and their background in motorcycle technology. Featuring a 791cc inline-four engine equipped with sophisticated dual overhead camshafts and carburetion, the S800 could rev up to 9,500 rpm—an impressive feat for its time and displacement. Its high-revving nature, combined with an agile chassis, made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts seeking an engaging and lively driving experience.
In terms of racing, the Honda S800 '66 made its presence known in local and international competition circles. While it wasn't a dominant force in large-scale endurance racing, the car's sharp handling and feather-light weight gave it an edge in club racing events, hill climbs, and autocross competitions. These attributes endeared it to racing aficiondos who appreciated its direct steering and balanced dynamics. The S800’s performance at competitive events helped solidify Honda’s reputation as an innovative and capable automaker, laying the groundwork for the brand’s subsequent motorsport successes in both two and four wheels.
Commercially, the S800 '66 was a pivotal model for Honda as it continued its transition from motorcycles to automobiles. The S800 garnered attention both in its native Japan and in export markets, notably Europe, where its spirited performance, smooth 4-speed manual gearbox, and reliability offered strong competition to established British roadsters of the era. Sales of the S800 weren’t massive by contemporary standards, but its impact was substantial. The car is now cherished among collectors and automotive historians as a prime example of Honda's early innovation and the broader rise of Japanese sports cars during the 1960s. The S800 paved the way for future icons, including the Honda Civic and the legendary S2000.
