About the Honda S800
Produced between 1966 and 1970, the Honda S800 was Honda's flagship sports car and the successor to the S600. Powered by a high-revving 791cc four-cylinder engine producing 70bhp, the S800 could reach 100mph and showcased Honda's racing heritage. Available as a coupé or roadster, it featured independent suspension, front disc brakes, and a choice of chain or gear drive transmission. The S800 was revolutionary for its time, offering 10,000rpm performance from a tiny engine with roller bearings and four carburettors. UK examples are predominantly right-hand drive, making them particularly desirable to British collectors.
What Affects Honda S800 Prices
Condition is paramount, with rust being the primary concern for these 50+ year-old vehicles. Restored examples with documented history command premium prices between £20,000 and £30,000, whilst barn finds or projects needing full restoration start around £5,000 to £8,000. Original, unmolested examples are increasingly rare and valuable. Roadsters typically fetch £2,000 to £5,000 more than coupés due to greater demand. Matching numbers cars with original engines and gearboxes add significant value. Chain-drive models are often preferred by purists over the later gear-driven versions. Provenance, history files, and evidence of professional restoration work substantially increase values. Mileage matters less than condition given the age, though genuinely low-mileage examples attract premiums.
Honda S800 Buying Tips
Commission a thorough pre-purchase inspection focusing on chassis and body corrosion, particularly sills, floorpans, and the boot area. Check engine oil for metal particles and listen for unusual bearing noise at high revs. Verify all numbers match and obtain a complete history file. Inspect the chain drive system carefully on early models for wear and correct tension. Test all electrics including gauges, as replacement parts are scarce and expensive. Join the Honda S800 Owners Club for access to specialists and parts suppliers before purchasing. Budget for maintenance as specialist knowledge is essential and parts must often be sourced from Japan. Expect running costs to be higher than typical classic car ownership. Consider trailer transportation rather than long drives given the car's age and value.