The Honda Acty Truck is a representative of Japan's "working vehicles," compactly fitting within the kei car dimensions at a total length of about 3.4m and a width of 1.48m, condensing reliability, cargo bed length, and tight turning radius into a small body. It sticks to a MR (Midship-Rear Wheel Drive) layout, placing the engine behind the cabin, and is known for its design that balances weight distribution and low cargo bed. It has been used for many years in the fields of agriculture, construction, and delivery in Japan and is popular abroad for its compactness and durability. The first generation (1977-1988) had a 550cc engine, the second generation (1988-1999) developed from a 547cc engine in the early period to a 660cc engine later period, both securing a maximum load capacity of 350kg. Although it did not sell as well in Japan as the Suzuki Carry or the Daihatsu Hijet, similar to how the Subaru Sambar with its RR layout is referred to as the "Porsche 911 of the farm road," the Honda Acty is also referred to as the "Honda NSX of the farm road," making it a popular model among car enthusiasts.

First-Generation Honda Acty Truck (TA/TC Model, 1977–1988) — "Redefining 'Kei Trucks' with an Agile 550cc and MR"

The Appeal of the First Generation Acty Truck

The stability and convenience generated by mid-ship positioning

The first generation of this vehicle adopts MR (Midship Rear-wheel drive) with the engine located behind the cabin. This setup allows for excellent traction on the weight-bearing rear wheels, enabling the vehicle to perform with tenacity in off-road terrains and steep slopes. The vehicle dimensions are 3.195m in length, 1.395m in width, and 1.660m in height, making it perfect for narrow Japanese streets and fields. The truck bed has a three-way opening for easy loading and unloading, with a maximum load capacity of 350kg. The water-cooled straight-twin OHC engine (545cc, 28PS/5,500rpm & 4.2kgm/4,000rpm) is easy to maintain, and its few part numbers make it long-lasting. As the model that set the "light truck standard" in Japan, it consistently receives high evaluations in overseas classic car markets. The distinctive charm that relies on low-speed torque and lightness (vehicle weight 590kg), yielding a sprightly sensation, is something you won't find in modern light trucks.

Shortcomings of the First-generation Acty Truck

The driving performance and safety equipment are "up to date".

The 550cc/28PS output is lacking for urban highways and long-distance cruising, making frequent shifting necessary on steep mountain roads or when carrying loads. It's also important to recognise that the safety equipment and collision safety ideas are appropriate for the 1970s-80s (airbags and ABS are not included). Comfort amenities are minimal, and compared to modern cars, noise reduction, rust prevention, and weather resistance are inferior. From the perspective of importing and registering, importing is easy in many countries, such as the US, due to the 25-year rule, but the requirements for public road registration (speed regulations, insurance, inspection) vary by region, so please check before purchasing. The fuel economy index is 25km/L at a constant 60km/h (17.5km/L in 10-mode) based on the test method of the time. This is different from the current WLTC standard, so a simple comparison of numbers is not possible.

The rival of the first generation Acty Truck.

Subaru Sambar (A unique RR layout model)

A powerful rival of the same era was the Subaru Sambar. The Sambar, with its rear engine layout (RR), introduced a 4WD option in 1980. Powered by a 544cc EK23 series engine (twin cylinders), it delivers around 28PS, offering a unique feeling among light trucks. Depending on the layout, the Sambar excelled in traction during load and road followability on snowy roads, while the Acty was noted for its excellent front-rear balance and low loading bed. These distinctions allowed each to thrive in their respective niches. Comparing the first generation Acty, both have a similar total width of around 1,395mm and total length around 3,195mm, making them equal in maneuverability. Maintenance culture and parts supply are dependent on local conditions, so it's practical to consider local support systems when making a purchase.

Specifications of the First Generation Acty Truck

"Size: Total length 3,195mm x total width 1,395mm x total height 1,660mm Engine: 0.545L inline 2-cylinder gasoline (EH type, water-cooled OHC) Transmission: 4MT/5MT (3-speed Hondamatic on certain years) Drive system: MR (Mid-ship rear-wheel drive), with 4WD added from 1983 Maximum output: 28-29ps / 5,500rpm Fuel Efficiency: 25.0km/L (at steady 60km/h), 17.5km/L (under 10-mode, as per the standard at the time) Price when new: Approx. 490,000 to 780,000 Yen"

2nd Generation Honda Acty Truck (HA1/HA2→HA3/HA4 model, 1988–1999) 〜"The era of the 'Hyper 12-valve' refined for practicality"

The Charm of the Second Generation Acty Truck

From 547cc in the previous term to 660cc in the latter term, 4WD is "Viscous Real-Time".

The second generation, started in 1988, began with a 547cc (three-cylinder 12-valve) and was replaced with the 660cc E07A in 1990 (38PS/5,300rpm・5.5kgm/4,500rpm). In 1996, fuel injection improved start and environmental performance. Additionally, it featured a viscus coupling real-time 4WD, which was advanced for a light truck. This resulted in increased traction and hill climbing ability in muddy and snowy conditions, expanding its range of operation from country roads to urban deliveries. The body, at a total length of 3,255mm and a width of 1,395mm, maintained its compact size while enhancing interior space and loading capacity. With a more relaxed drive compared to the 550cc era and an ongoing 350kg load, it is a "highly accomplished practical vehicle".

Disadvantages of the Second Generation Acty Truck

The speed range and quietness are inferior to modern light trucks.

Although the output reached 38PS after being 660cc, the acceleration margin is smaller compared to modern light trucks (NA 50ps class post-Heisei to Reiwa era) in highway merging and long-distance cruising. Cabin sound insulation, rust prevention, and comfort equipment are not as well-equipped as in later models (HA6/7→HA8/9). In used cars, there is a large difference between individuals in terms of underbody and cargo bed corrosion, clutch and driveshaft wear, and degradation of 4WD viscous coupling, depending on the model year and usage, so test driving and underbody inspection are essential. Fuel consumption varies greatly by route and load, as the standards for catalog testing change over time. You may see notations such as "60km/h steady state 19.3km/L" in some material, but don't just compare numbers. Emphasize the maintenance history and application suitability of the actual vehicle.

Rivals of the second generation Acty Truck

Suzuki Carry (Peace of Mind in Parts Distribution and Unit Numbers)

The biggest rival of the same period is the Suzuki Carry. It is popular in sales and boasts abundant parts supply and know-how overseas, making it easy to maintain. The Carry also comes in a variety of grades and body variations to suit your needs, with the ability to carry up to 350kg and fitting the size of a small vehicle. The inherent qualities of both vehicles are closely matched, and both are highly rated as "working tools" due to their maneuverability in tight spaces and flexible cargo arrangements. When choosing between the two overseas, consider the local maintenance and parts availability (number of shops and delivery times) and the road conditions on your route (snow, unpaved, hilly). Your choice will come down to either the grippiness of the Acty's MR x Real-time 4WD, or the wide availability of the Carry.

Specifications of the second-generation Acty Truck

"Size: Overall length 3,255mm x overall width 1,395mm x overall height 1,700-1,710mm Engine: 0.547L inline 3-cylinder gasoline (E05A type), 0.656L inline 3-cylinder gasoline (E07A type, carb/FI) Transmission: 5MT, 3AT (some grades) Drive system: MR (midship, rear-wheel drive), viscous coupling type real-time 4WD Maximum output: 34ps (547cc) to 38ps (660cc) Fuel efficiency: 16 to 19km/L (60km/h stationary driving, standard at the time) New car price: Approximately 580,000 yen to 950,000 yen (domestic setting at the time of release)"

3rd Generation Acty Truck (HA6/HA7 model, 1999-2021) ~ "The light truck that defended MR to the end"

The appeal of the third-generation Acty Truck

The stability created by the MR layout and dual-pump 4WD system

Introduced in 1999, the third generation is the only light truck that continued with the 'MR (Midship Rear-drive)' configuration. This setup ensures a steady load on the rear wheels while keeping the loading platform low, providing outstanding stability even when fully loaded or on unpaved roads. The vehicle is powered by a E07Z type 660cc inline three-cylinder SOHC engine which delivers 45PS with an emphasis on practical torque. The 2009 facelift saw enhancements in collision safety and a complete redesign of the cabin shape. Furthermore, a dual pump-type real time 4WD was introduced, catering to a wide range of terrains from paved roads to snow-covered and countryside tracks. Its body, measuring 3,395mm in length and 1,475mm in width, is ideal for urban deliveries and farming work, and it maintains a maximum load capacity of 350kg. Having been sold for over 20 years, this best-seller boasts of its integrity as a 'hardworking vehicle'.

Drawbacks of the Third Generation Acty Truck

Lack of power and limits of comfort.

Although the 45PS naturally aspirated engine is highly durable, it can feel underpowered in situations such as highway merging and long-distance driving, and the need for gear shifting increases when loaded uphill. Moreover, compared to light trucks manufactured in the later Heisei era, the sound insulation, vibration suppression, and seat comfort are modest. While airbags have become standard, ABS and advanced safety features are limited, and compromises are needed in terms of equipment from a modern standard. Furthermore, as production ended in 2021, it is impossible to acquire a new vehicle, leaving the used market as the only option. Many of them have been used extensively in agriculture and delivery services, so checking for rust and suspension degradation is a must. Fuel consumption is rated at 14 to 17.8 km/L under the 10/15 mode (later JC08), but this can vary significantly depending on the load and driving conditions.

Rivals of the third-generation Acty Truck

Daihatsu Hijet Truck (Always ahead through model changes)

The biggest competitor is the Daihatsu Hijet. While the third-generation Acty has maintained its basic design for a long time, the Hijet has aggressively modified its model, enhancing it with more powerful engines and comfortable equipment. The EF-VE engine with a class of 50PS, and the spacious cabin with abundant automatic transmission settings, were particularly appealing to users who regularly drive long distances. On the other hand, the Acty has consistently maintained its unique feature of a "low-floor cargo bed and load stability that is unique to MR". If you are choosing overseas, the Hijet and Suzuki Carry are advantageous in terms of parts supply and maintainability, but for fans seeking the "one and only mid-ship light truck", the Acty emits an unwavering presence.

Specifications of the third-generation Acty Truck

"Size: Overall length 3,395mm x overall width 1,475mm x overall height 1,745-1,885mm Engine: 0.656L Inline 3-cylinder gasoline (E07Z type SOHC) Transmission: 5MT, 3AT Drive System: MR (Midship-Rear Wheel Drive), Dual-Pump Real Time 4WD Maximum Output: 45ps / 5,500rpm Fuel Economy: 14.0 - 17.8 km/L (10-15 mode, later JC08 mode) New Car Price: Approximately ¥680,000 - ¥1,250,000 (Domestic setting at the time of release)"

Japanese used cars for sale in stock

2001 Honda Acty Truck HA7