How much horsepower does a Honda S660 have?
The Honda S660 produces about 64 PS (47 kW), roughly 63–64 horsepower, from its 660cc turbocharged engine.
Designed as a lightweight kei-roadster for Japan, the S660’s power output sits at the kei-car limit while prioritizing low weight and nimble handling. Below, we explain the official figures, how they fit kei-car rules, and what this means for performance and ownership.
Power figures and engine specifics
The figures below reflect the official Japanese-spec ratings for the S660, with the car generally equipped with a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Below are the official figures to understand where the horsepower sits within the kei-car framework:
- Engine displacement: 658–660 cc inline-3
- Power output: 64 PS (47 kW)
- Torque: approximately 104 Nm
- Drivetrain: rear-wheel drive (RWD)
- Transmission: 6-speed manual (with a lightweight, communicative shifter)
These figures are consistent across model years that Honda marketed in Japan, aligning with kei-car regulations that cap power at 64 PS to keep weight and tax classifications favorable. The result is a power-to-weight ratio that emphasizes agility and driving engagement over straight-line speed.
Technical context and market positioning
As a kei car, the S660 is constrained not just by displacement but by power output. Honda tunes the 660cc engine to deliver usable torque in a broad RPM band, facilitating lively cornering and responsive acceleration from low to mid-range revs. The mid-ship layout and light curb weight further enhance performance characteristics despite the modest horsepower figure.
What this means for driving and ownership
With its 64 PS output, the S660 offers a spirited driving experience that rewards precise steering, compact dimensions, and a tactile manual gearbox. The car is widely praised for its handling balance, low weight, and the sense of connection it provides to the road, rather than for outright horsepower numbers.
Production status and availability
Honda ceased new S660 production in the early 2020s, making available examples primarily through the used market. Buyers today typically value the S660 for its lightweight chassis, mid-engine balance, and driving feel rather than high horsepower figures.
In short, the S660 packs a kei-car appropriate 64 PS into a small, light, rear-wheel-drive roadster, delivering a characteristic driving experience that prioritizes handling and engagement over raw power.
Summary
The Honda S660 delivers around 64 PS (47 kW), roughly 63–64 horsepower, from a compact 660cc turbocharged engine. Paired with a light curb weight and rear-wheel drive, it emphasizes nimble handling and a engaging manual-shift experience rather than brute horsepower. For enthusiasts, that combination—not peak horsepower—defines the S660’s appeal.
