The Honda S660 is one of those rare cars that Americans can’t stop talking about—but can’t easily drive either. This Japanese kei car combines mid-engine sports car balance, retro-inspired design, and real-world practicality in a bite-sized package. It’s a forbidden fruit in the U.S., but one worth waiting for.
With its motorcycle-inspired performance and miniature NSX looks, the S660 delivers a heart-throbbing experience unlike anything sold in America.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A Heritage-Driven Honda You’ve Probably Never Seen
The S660 revives Honda’s legacy of tiny sports cars, from the S500, S600, and S800, all the way to the 1990s Honda Beat. Its lineage also draws from the celebrated S2000, and while smaller, its rear-wheel-drive, mid-engine layout, and manual transmission show it’s serious about performance.
Built between 2015 and 2022, the S660 was a Japan-only model, never officially exported to the U.S. But that hasn’t stopped Americans from importing and collecting it through JDM import channels.
Specs Breakdown: Fun-Sized, Fully Loaded
| Specs | U.S.-Friendly Format |
|---|---|
| Engine | 660cc 3-cylinder DOHC 12-valve |
| Power | 63 horsepower |
| Torque | 77 lb-ft |
| Weight | 1,830 lbs |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or CVT automatic |
| Length | 11.2 feet |
| Width | 4.9 feet |
| 0–60 mph | ~10 seconds |
| Top Speed | 87 mph |
| Tires | 15″ front, 16″ rear |
| Layout | Mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive |
| Balance | 45/55 weight distribution |
Don’t let the numbers fool you. This car isn’t built for drag races—it’s built for corners. Thanks to its lightweight construction, Vehicle Stability Assist, and grippy tires, it handles like a go-kart that’s been tuned by an F1 engineer.
Design, Features & Trim Levels
The S660 isn’t just small—it’s cleverly styled, offering open-air freedom through a removable “temaki” roof that gives you targa-top vibes in a pint-sized package.
Trims available:
- Alpha – Premium interior, CVT available
- Beta – Lightweight with fewer features
- Modulo X – Performance-focused upgrades and body kit
- Concept Edition – Limited to 660 numbered units
Design highlights:
- LED headlamps
- Digital instrument display
- Yokohama Advan Neova tires
- Black-on-yellow license plates (Kei car designation in Japan)
- Staggered wheels and tight cockpit for track-like feel
This isn’t just a microcar—it’s a miniature hero with extreme styling and manic simplicity.
Driving Experience: What It’s Like Behind the Wheel
The Honda S660 isn’t built for straight-line speed—it’s made for twisties, track days, and urban agility. With a buzzy engine note and lively driving dynamics, it feels like a motorcycle in car form.
Whether zipping through downtown streets or hugging canyon corners, it delivers:
- Flat, grippy cornering
- Smooth ride over surfaces
- Unobtrusive city car calm in traffic
- A tiny dancer feel on winding roads
This car might just make your Miata feel big.
U.S. Pricing & Import Regulations
What It Costs in the U.S.
Although never sold new here, S660s can be imported under certain circumstances:
| Trim | U.S. Import Estimate |
|---|---|
| Alpha/Beta | $17,000–$20,000 USD |
| Modulo X | $21,000–$25,000 USD |
| Concept Edition | $26,000+ USD (collector) |
These prices include car cost, shipping, customs, and broker/import fees.
How to Import a Honda S660 to the U.S.
The S660 does not meet U.S. road legality for general use unless:
- It’s 25 years old (eligible from 2040)
- You import under Show or Display exemption (limited driving)
- You register it for off-road or track-only use
Important Tip: Avoid scams. Only use registered importers with NHTSA and EPA approval.
Learn more: How to Import a Honda S660
Collector Value & Investment Potential
Thanks to its unique positioning, the S660 is considered a modern classic. Models like the Modulo X and Concept Edition are already seeing appreciation, especially among JDM collectors and kei car fans.
- Limited production (2015–2022)
- High desirability among enthusiasts
- Future U.S. import eligibility (25-year rule)
If you’re wondering, “Is the Honda S660 worth importing?”—for collector or show purposes, the answer is absolutely.
Aftermarket Mods & U.S. Tuning Culture
American car enthusiasts love customization—and the S660 is no exception. Popular upgrades include:
- Spoon Sports tuning packages
- Mugen performance parts
- Hondata FlashPro ECU tuning
- Liberty Walk body kits for aggressive looks
- Performance upgrades like suspension, brakes, and aero
Explore more: Honda S660 Tuning & Modifications
Living With the S660 in the U.S.
Ownership Considerations
- Fuel efficiency: Excellent
- Maintenance: Simple, but replacement parts availability is limited in the U.S.
- Suspension issues and recall information exist—check import records
- Insurance: Typically low if insurable as a collector or show car
Can You Daily Drive It in America?
If imported for off-road or limited use, yes. But this car isn’t suited for long highway stretches. Its tight cockpit may also be a concern.
Honda S660 for tall drivers? Drivers over 6’1” may find it cramped—but many still enjoy it for shorter drives or weekend fun.
How It Stacks Up Against U.S. Alternatives
While there’s no direct U.S. competitor to the S660, these are similar in spirit:
| Model | How It Compares |
|---|---|
| Mazda MX-5 Miata | Larger, more powerful, but less rare |
| Fiat 124 Spider | Fun, but lacks JDM charm |
| Toyota MR2 Spyder | Similar mid-engine vibe, older |
| Mini Cooper Convertible | Stylish, but FWD and heavier |
For uniqueness, JDM cred, and handling, the S660 wins hearts, not horsepower.
Final Verdict: A Future Classic for American Enthusiasts
The Honda S660 is more than just a kei car—it’s a spiritual successor to Honda’s rich sports car history. For U.S. enthusiasts, it’s a future classic, a tiny dancer, and a rolling piece of automotive passion.
If you’re patient (waiting for 25-year eligibility) or creative (Show/Display route), the S660 offers an ownership experience unlike anything else in the States.
