Honda has long been celebrated for producing vehicles that masterfully blend refinement with unwavering reliability. From their extensive lineup to the compact yet powerful Acty truck, Honda vehicles are renowned for their exceptional build quality and impressive fuel efficiency. The Honda Acty Truck, a standout in the kei truck category, exemplifies these qualities while offering a surprisingly enjoyable driving experience.
If you’re exploring the market for a Honda Acty Truck for sale, you’ve come to the perfect place. Let’s delve into the world of these charming and efficient urban workhorses, exploring what makes the Honda Kei Truck a unique and valuable vehicle.
Understanding the Honda Kei Truck
The Honda Acty is a prominent kei vehicle manufactured by Honda Motor Company. Its production began in 1977 and continues to this day, solidifying its place in automotive history. The name “Acty” is derived from “Activity,” underscoring its intended versatility and practical nature. Primarily designed for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM), the Acty truck embodies the kei class spirit of compact efficiency and utility.
In the competitive landscape of kei trucks, the Honda Acty Truck stands alongside notable rivals such as the Mitsubishi Minicab, Nissan NT100/NV100 Clipper, Mazda Scrum, Daihatsu Hijet, Suzuki Carry/Every, and Subaru Sambar. In a segment filled with capable contenders, the Acty Truck consistently proves its worth as an incredibly adaptable and compact commercial vehicle, purpose-built for a wide array of utilitarian tasks.
A Journey Through Time: Honda Acty Kei Truck Generations
First Generation Honda Acty Kei Truck (1977-1988)
The inaugural Honda Acty truck debuted in 1977, marking the genesis of this iconic kei vehicle. Honda introduced the first Acty kei truck to succeed earlier models like the Honda TN360 and Honda T360.
Alt text: Side profile of a first generation Honda Acty Kei Truck, showcasing its compact dimensions.
The first generation Acty kei truck showcased a compact design, characteristic of the kei truck class. It featured a small, yet capable engine tailored for diverse driving needs.
Specifically, the original Acty kei trucks adopted a mid-engine layout, housing a 2-cylinder, 545cc engine. This water-cooled engine incorporated a single overhead cam (SOHC) design, producing 28 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 4.2 kg⋅m of torque at 4,000 rpm.
For export models, engineered to meet varied emissions standards, Honda offered a slightly enhanced version of the engine, delivering 30.6 horsepower at the same engine speed, providing a modest power increase for international markets.
These small engines were celebrated for their exceptional fuel efficiency, establishing the 1st-generation Acty kei truck as an economically sound choice for businesses and individual users alike.
Second Generation Honda Acty Kei Truck (1988 – 1999)
The second generation Acty Kei Truck was distinguished by the introduction of the Honda E05 engine. This engine marked an upgrade, featuring an additional cylinder to create a 3-cylinder, 547 cc engine with a Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) configuration.
Alt text: Front angle of a second generation Honda Acty Kei Truck, highlighting its updated design.
A significant change in this generation was the discontinuation of automatic transmission options for 4-wheel drive models (HA-4), focusing on manual transmission to enhance off-road capability.
Another notable addition was the “Acty Attack” variant, a specialized version of the Acty Kei Truck engineered for agricultural applications. This model came equipped with a rear differential lock, significantly improving traction and stability on challenging terrains.
Compared to its predecessor, the second generation offered a wider array of Acty Kei Truck models, each with subtle variations. For instance, the TOWN and SDX2 models featured color-coded (white) speedometers and bumpers, adding a touch of visual distinction.
These enhancements aimed to cater to a broader spectrum of drivers and operational needs, solidifying the Acty Kei Truck’s position as a versatile and efficient commercial JDM vehicle. Production of this generation continued until 1999, paving the way for the next generation model.
Third Generation Honda Acty Kei Truck (1999-2009)
Launched in 1999, the third generation Honda Acty Kei Truck presented a more contemporary and youthful aesthetic compared to the earlier generations.
While previous generations sported a simpler, boxier design, the third generation adopted a smoother and more aerodynamic profile. Although safety was a consideration across all generations, this iteration placed a heightened emphasis on safety features and improved crash protection. This advancement aimed to offer enhanced occupant safety in accidents, marking a significant step forward from previous models.
Alt text: Interior view of a third generation Honda Acty Kei Truck dashboard, showcasing the modern design and controls.
Furthermore, a key differentiator of this generation was the introduction of a 4WD option. This broadened the Acty Kei Truck’s versatility, enhancing its performance in demanding driving conditions—a feature absent in the first two generations. The upgraded 656 cc engine was capable of producing a maximum output of 46 PS (34 kW; 45 HP) at 5,000 rpm, providing ample power for its size and intended applications.
Over time, Honda further refined the engine, culminating in the current 660 cc in-line 12-valve E07Z gasoline engine. In 4WD configurations, it also delivers 6.2 kg⋅m of torque at 4,000 rpm, ensuring optimal performance for diverse operational requirements.
Fourth Generation Honda Acty Kei Truck (2009-2021)
The fourth generation Acty Kei Truck, introduced in 2009, continued the legacy of its predecessors by maintaining a compact footprint, perfectly suited for urban environments characterized by narrow streets and limited parking spaces.
In addition, this generation Acty Kei Truck offered an increased payload capacity while adhering to the dimensional constraints of the kei truck class.
Alt text: Rear perspective of a fourth generation Honda Acty Kei Truck, emphasizing its bed size and utility.
This generation also prioritized driver comfort, incorporating enhanced ergonomics and a more refined cabin design. Drivers could expect a more comfortable and convenient driving experience, even during extended periods behind the wheel.
Each generation of the Honda Acty Kei Truck has consistently contributed to its reputation as a reliable and capable vehicle, proving itself as a dependable transportation solution for drivers worldwide.
The evolution of the Honda Acty Kei Truck demonstrates a commitment to keeping pace with changing times, integrating advanced safety features and technologies to provide a smooth and adaptable driving experience, regardless of the intended use.
Honda Acty Kei Truck Review: A Closer Look (1988-1999)
Before diving into a detailed review, let’s examine the general specifications of the 1988-1999 Acty Kei Truck—one of the most popular generations of the Honda Acty Truck for sale.
General specifications of Honda Acty Truck 1988-1999:
| Manufacturer | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model | Acty Truck |
| Body | Pickup Truck |
| Production | 1988 – 1999 |
| Number of seats | 2 seats |
| Length | 3,295 mm |
| Width | 1,395 mm |
| Height | 1,775 mm – 1,795 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 165 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,875 mm |
| Wheel | 12-inch wheel |
| Curb Weight | 620 kg – 660 kg (1,366 pounds – 1,455 pounds) |
| Bed size (Length/Width) | Length: 1.2 meters – 1.5 meters (4 ft – 5 ft) Width: 1 meter – 1.2 meters (3.3 ft – 4 ft) |
| Towing Capacity | 350 kg (772 pounds) |
| Engine type | 549 cc – 656 cc (3-cylinder engine) |
| Horsepower | 29 – 39 horsepower |
| Torque | 39 – 57 Nm |
| Valve Train | SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) |
| Transmission | 4 – 5 MT / 3 AT |
| Drivetrain | 2WD / 4WD |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 liters (7.9 gallons) |
| Fuel consumption | 15 – 18 km/L (35 – 47 miles per gallon) |
Let’s explore the 1988-1999 series Honda Acty Truck for sale in greater detail, focusing on key aspects.
Exterior & Interior
Honda Acty kei truck models produced from 1988 to 1999 feature a compact, practical, and straightforward exterior design. Prioritizing functionality over elaborate aesthetics, the vehicle’s narrow body facilitates easy maneuvering in urban settings and on constricted roads. Inside the cabin, Honda emphasized functionality and durability.
The Acty’s control panel is characterized by a simple layout, placing essential controls within easy reach for convenient operation on the move. While the interior materials are not luxurious, they are robust enough to endure the rigors of continuous commercial use.
Engine
The second generation Acty Kei Truck is powered by a small-capacity engine, typically a 547 cc – 656 cc in-line 3-cylinder unit. These compact engines are engineered for efficient operation, perfectly matching the vehicle’s size and practical purpose.
Power output varies depending on the specific model and production year, generally ranging from 29 to 39 horsepower. Torque figures span from 39 to 57 Nm.
Performance and Driving
The truck’s performance is calibrated for practicality and nimble, convenient driving. The compact dimensions, lightweight construction, and available front- or four-wheel-drive configurations render the 1988-1999 Actys highly maneuverable and easy to park, particularly valuable in urban environments.
While not designed for high-performance driving, it excels in city and farm environments, where agility, ease of maneuvering, and comfort are paramount.
Safety
The safety features of the 1988-1999 generation Honda Acty Kei Truck are basic by contemporary standards.
These trucks were equipped with fundamental safety elements typical of their era, including seat belts and essential lighting systems such as tail lights, headlights, turn signals, and brake lights, aligning with the safety regulations applicable at the time.
However, advanced safety technologies now commonplace in modern vehicles, such as airbags, anti-lock braking systems, and sophisticated collision avoidance systems, are absent in this generation.
For those prioritizing enhanced safety features in a mini truck, opting for more recent Acty models, such as those from 2019, 2020, or 2021, is advisable. These newer models offer improved safety technologies while retaining the core strengths of the Honda Acty kei truck.
Price
The ’90s Acty kei trucks were economically advantageous, characterized by low initial costs and minimal maintenance requirements.
Numerous domestic and international auto dealers offer discounts on used Honda Acty models. Newer used models, such as 2020-2021 Actys, can range from $10,000 to $25,000.
However, older models can be acquired for under $1,000! The popular 1988-1999 series typically ranges from $1000 to $8000.
Considering these attractive prices, it’s important to factor in potential customs duties and additional fees based on your location. Even with these supplementary costs, the overall price remains highly affordable, regardless of your country of purchase.
Purchasing a used Honda Acty Truck for sale directly from Japan can often present even more significant cost savings.
Final Thoughts on the Honda Kei Truck
In conclusion, the Honda Acty Kei Truck is a resilient and continuously evolving vehicle, consistently adapting to meet the ongoing demand for practical and lightweight cargo transportation. Its enduring appeal lies in its compact size, fuel efficiency, and robust build, making it an ideal choice for various applications, from urban deliveries to agricultural tasks.
If you are in the market for a Honda Acty Truck for sale, be sure to explore reputable suppliers and trustworthy online auto marketplaces like Car From Japan. They offer a wide selection of quality vehicles, ready to help you find the perfect Honda kei truck to meet your needs.
