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How many cylinders does a Honda Beat have?

The Honda Beat has three cylinders. This compact roadster relies on a small inline-three engine to keep weight down and deliver a lively driving experience.


What the Honda Beat is


The Honda Beat is a kei-class, mid-engine roadster produced by Honda from 1991 to 1996. Designed for lightweight performance and nimble handling, it paired a small-displacement engine with a compact, rear-wheel-drive layout to create a distinctive, sport‑oriented city and weekend driver.


Engine specifics


Below are the core engine characteristics that define the Beat’s powerplant.



  • Engine configuration: inline-3 (three cylinders)

  • Displacement: 656 cc (0.656 L)

  • Engine code: E07A

  • Layout: mid-engine, rear-wheel drive

  • Power output: about 63 PS (46 kW) at roughly 8,000 rpm


These specifications reflect Honda’s approach to keeping the Beat within kei-class limits while preserving spirited performance and a compact packaging that suits a roadster concept.


Why three cylinders matter


The three-cylinder layout contributes to lower weight and a compact engine bay, which is crucial for a mid-engine layout in a small roadster. The result is a light, rev-happy character that many owners associate with the Beat’s playful personality.


Summary


The Honda Beat employs a three-cylinder inline engine in a compact 656 cc package, delivering a distinctive combination of light weight, high-rev performance, and agile handling that defines the model.

What is the top speed of the Honda Beat?


The top speed of a Honda Beat is approximately 84 mph (135 km/h), which is electronically limited. This is achieved with its 656cc, 64 hp engine and 5-speed manual transmission.
 
You can watch this video to see a top speed run of the Honda Beat: 47sWayBeforeTheFameYouTube · Jun 25, 2023

  • Top Speed: 84 mph (135 km/h), electronically limited.
  • Engine: 656cc three-cylinder, producing 64 hp at 8,100 rpm.
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual.
  • Acceleration: 0-62 mph (0-100 kph) in about 13.4 seconds. 

This video shows the top speed of a stock Honda Beat: 59sJack CecilYouTube · Aug 31, 2020



What is so special about the Honda Beat?


And then there's the balance. Being mid-engineed it isn't perfect 50/50. But It is almost perfect and crucially the center of gravity. It sits precisely. At the base of the driver's.



What engine does a Honda Beat have?


Honda Beat

Honda Beat (PP1)
LayoutTransverse mid-engine, rear-wheel drive
Powertrain
Engine656 cc (40.0 cu in) E07A MTREC I3
Transmission5-speed manual



What is the top speed of the 1991 Honda Beat?


The 1991 Honda Beat's top speed is electronically limited to 84 mph (134134134 km/h). It has a 656cc, 64 hp three-cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. 
You can watch this video to see the Honda Beat in action on the road: 59sSaabkyle04YouTube · Mar 31, 2019

  • Top speed: 84 mph (134134134 km/h), which is electronically limited.
  • Engine: 656cc, 3-cylinder, 64 hp (63 bhp).
  • Transmission: 5-speed manual.
  • Drivetrain: Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive. 

This video gives a quick overview of the Honda Beat: 1mThe JDM Pit Prestige Imports TampaYouTube · Mar 19, 2025


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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.