How much horsepower does a 1972 Honda Z600 have?
The 1972 Honda Z600 typically delivered about 30 horsepower from its 598cc engine, though the exact figure can vary by market and how horsepower is measured.
Overview of the Z600 powertrain
The Z600 is Honda’s compact two-door from the early 1970s, built on the same family lineage as the N600. It uses an air-cooled, 598cc twin-cylinder engine and a lightweight chassis designed for economical city driving.
Engine configuration and output range
The engine is a small-displacement two-cylinder, usually carbureted, and it commonly produced around 30 horsepower in most markets. Some catalogs list slightly lower or higher figures depending on testing method and market.
Power ratings by market and standard
horsepower figures from that era varied with the testing standard (for example SAE gross vs. SAE net) and by regional market, which is why you may see small differences in reported numbers. The following range captures how sources typically report the Z600’s power.
- Common figure: about 30 horsepower (SAE gross) for many 1972 Z600 models.
- Range observed in some catalogs: roughly 28–31 horsepower, depending on rating method and market.
- In metric horsepower (PS), the figure is typically around 31–32 PS (roughly 29–31 hp).
Before reviewing the specific figures, note that the numbers below come from different catalogs and test standards of the time.
These variations illustrate why the Z600’s horsepower is described as around 30 hp rather than a single fixed figure.
Why the number matters for enthusiasts
For collectors, restorers, and vintage-car historians, understanding the rating method helps interpret the horsepower figure. The Z600’s lightweight design and modest power were aimed at fuel economy and urban usability during an era of rising fuel concerns.
What to verify when researching a Z600
When looking up specifications for a specific car or brochure, check whether the rating is SAE gross, SAE net, DIN (PS), or another standard. This helps explain small discrepancies between sources and confirms whether you’re comparing like with like.
Summary: The 1972 Honda Z600 generally delivers around 30 horsepower from its 598cc twin, with small variations depending on market and measurement standards. This reflects Honda’s emphasis on economical, city-friendly performance in its early-1970s microcar lineup.
