1971 Honda N600 “Woodie” Wagon
As Honda’s first mass-market automobile, the N600 played a pivotal role in establishing the brand’s reputation in the automotive industry, particularly in markets outside Japan.
The Honda N600 microcar was introduced in 1967 as an evolution of the N360, which was Honda’s first automobile designed to meet the needs of the urban commuter. The “N” in N600 stands for Norimono, meaning ‘vehicle’ in Japanese, distinguishing it from Honda’s motorcycle lineup.
The N600 featured a larger engine than its predecessor, a 598 cc SOHC inline 2-cylinder engine. This engine produced 45 horsepower at 7,000 rpm, a respectable figure for a car of its size and weight.
The engine was paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, which allowed the car to reach a top speed of around 80 mph.
The N600’s engineering was heavily influenced by Honda’s expertise in motorcycle manufacturing. The engine was all-aluminum, a design choice that kept the car lightweight and efficient. The single 3-barrel Keihin carburetor contributed to the engine’s performance, making the N600 a lively and nimble vehicle.
The suspension system featured coil springs at the front and leaf springs at the rear, providing a good balance between comfort and handling. The braking system included front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, providing the small car adequate stopping power.
One of the most distinctive versions of the N600 was the “Woodie” Wagon seen here. This variant was characterized by its faux wood paneling on the sides, reminiscent of the classic American wood-paneled station wagons.
The “Woodie” aesthetic added a touch of nostalgia and charm to the compact car, making it a standout in the microcar segment. The interior of the N600 “Woodie” was typically finished in two-tone fabric, adding to its appeal and comfort.
The N600 was not just a city car; it was also a competent performer in its class. It was designed to be economical, reliable, and easy to maintain, which made it popular among urban dwellers and young drivers. Its compact dimensions allowed it to navigate through tight city streets with ease, while its efficient engine made it inexpensive to run.
The Honda N600 “Woodie” Wagon, with its unique styling and practical design, remains a beloved classic among microcar enthusiasts. Its combination of innovative engineering, distinctive aesthetics, and practical design elements make it a notable vehicle in automotive history.
Credit: Bonhams|Cars
