Used Honda Acty Van for Sale — 6 listed

The Charm of the First Generation Honda Acty Van

Enjoy the simplicity of a classic car in a lightweight and compact package.

The charm of the first generation Acty Van lies in its simplicity as a light commercial vehicle and its design that emits a now classic vibe. The Acty series started as a mini truck, with the van being added in November 1979. In Honda's official used car catalog, the first generation Acty van is organized as a model from November 1979 to April 1988. As a light commercial van at the time, the body is very compact. It was easy to use in narrow alleys, farm roads, and for deliveries in shopping districts, with a focus on carrying cargo with the bare minimum equipment. The engine is a 545cc class water-cooled 2-cylinder gasoline engine, mounted mid-ship (MR), driving the rear wheels. The fact that the engine was vertically placed in the 4WD model that was added midway is still a topic of conversation as an engineer-like, Honda-like device. Compared to modern light vans, both power and comfort are modest, but the relatively simple mechanical structure is appealing to aficionados of classic vehicles. For overseas readers, the uniquely small size characteristic of JDM and the distinctive Honda commercial vehicle quality are key points. Round headlights, short front and rear overhangs, and a boxy body offer a flavor absent in modern vehicles. This generation is interesting not only as a practical vehicle, but also as a material for retro mini-vans, event cars, cafe cars, and mini campers.

Drawbacks of the First Generation Honda Acty Van

Older model, requires maintenance for practical use.

The most significant drawback of the first-generation Acty Van is its age. This model ranging from 1979-1988, has limited good quality units available. Even if the exterior seems spotless, caution should be exercised concerning the rusted undercarriage, corrosion around the frame, the lower parts of the doors, steps, leaks, electrical systems, fuel systems, and deteriorating brake systems. Particularly with light commercial vehicles, many were originally used for work, so the condition cannot be determined by mileage alone. Its driving performance is comparatively modest by today's standards. The original 545cc engine is suitable for low-speed city travel and short-distance deliveries, but it struggles with highways, long-distance journeys, or mountain driving. Comfort amenities like air conditioning and power steering are also not on par with modern vans. Additionally, when purchasing overseas, sourcing parts is a significant challenge. Substitute parts for engines and wear parts may be available, but it's generally harder to find exterior parts, interior parts, glass, and lamps. The first-generation Acty Van is a model to choose not as a budget practical vehicle, but as a vintage vehicle that offers joy in maintenance or as a retro commercial vehicle.

The first generation Honda Acty Van's rival

Subaru Sambar Van

A notable competitor to the original Acty Van is the Subaru Sambar Van. The Sambar stands out among light commercial vehicles for its unique rear-engine, rear-drive layout, earning it the nickname "the Porsche 911 of country roads." On the other hand, the Acty Van also adopts a unique mid-ship (MR) engine layout, sometimes earning it the title of "the Honda NSX of country roads." It is a model that aims for a balance between cargo space and driving stability in a small body. In comparison, the Sambar has a long history and a strong fan base, and it's often easier to find parts and information even for older models. The Acty Van may not be as well-known overseas as the Sambar, but it has a unique appeal as a Honda light commercial vehicle. The round-eyed first generation Acty Van can hold its own in terms of looks and vintage charm. From a practical standpoint, the age of both vehicles plays a significant risk. If you're looking to purchase, you should prioritize not just the make and model, but the amount of rust, engine start-up, brakes, undercarriage, and parts availability. If you plan to use it for a long time overseas, it's worth checking which models have maintenance experience in your local area.

Specifications of the First Generation Honda Acty Van

Engine: 545cc 2-cylinder SOHC water-cooled gasoline engine (EH type) Transmission: 4MT / 5MT / Hondamatic (AT) *Depending on the year and specifications Drive System: MR (Midship Rear Drive), added part-time 4WD from 1983 onwards Features: The first generation of light utility vans, introduced in November 1979. Known for its simple box-shaped body with round headlights. A compact car equipped with a practical cargo area, ideal for short-distance deliveries and light work. In 1981, the Honda Street was added as a higher-end model leaning towards passenger use.

The Appeal of the Second Generation Honda Acty Van

A standard generation with greatly improved usability and performance.

The second-generation Acty Van debuted in 1988. According to official Honda records, this model was produced from May 1988 to May 1999. The initial version was equipped with a 550cc E05A engine, but after the changes to the kei car regulations in 1990, it switched to a 660cc E07A engine. The model codes for the 550cc era are HH1/HH2, and for the post-660cc transition are HH3/HH4. The appeal of this generation lies in its practicality, which is higher than the first generation, and its ease of handling as a classic kei van even today. The box-shaped body provides ample cargo space, emphasizing its usability as a commercial van. Rear-wheel drive and 4WD models were available, making it easy to drive in snowy conditions, on farm roads, and in mountainous areas. The 5MT cars offer the fun of fully utilizing the small engine, providing a light and enjoyable driving experience. For foreign used car enthusiasts, the second-generation Acty Van is appealing as an "old yet not too old" classic kei van. Its small size makes it easy to maintain, and parts tend to be easier to find than for the first generation. Especially the HH3/HH4 series with its 660cc engine, is more suited for everyday use compared to the first generation or 550cc models. It also serves as an interesting base for compact camping vans or mobile sales vans.

Drawbacks of the Second Generation Honda Acty Van

The comfort and safety do not match those of modern light vans.

The second-generation Acty Van is a practical model, but it significantly falls behind modern light vans in terms of comfort and safety. Its short front structure, similar to a cab-over design, makes it less collision-safe compared to later semi-cab models. You might find the stability and quietness during high-speed driving, the air conditioning performance, and the comfort of the seats insufficient for long-distance travel. Also, as the models were produced from 1988 to 1999, many vehicles have aged considerably by now. Particular attention should be paid to rust around the cargo floor, the lower part of the rear gate, around the sliding doors, the suspension mounting areas, the muffler, and the fuel tank. Vehicles that have been used for work generally show signs of wear and tear, such as dirty interiors, cargo area scratches, worn door hinges, and clutch wear. The charm of the HH1/HH2 550cc lies in its old-specification lightness, but it is at a disadvantage in terms of power compared to the HH3/HH4 660cc. If you plan to use it regularly overseas, it is safer to choose the 660cc model considering parts supply and engine performance. Before purchasing, make sure to check the white smoke at engine start, idle stability, transmission engagement, 4WD operation, and brake effectiveness.

The second-generation Honda Acty Van's rival

Suzuki Every

The second-generation Acty Van's rival is the Suzuki Every. The Every is a model that is highly circulated in the light commercial van market, and it is strong in terms of parts supply and maintenance information. While the Acty Van is uniquely Honda, with its midship (MR) engine layout, the Every is a more conventional cab-over FR type, often chosen for its practicality, circulation, and maintainability. In the overseas used car market, the Every may be easier to find in many regions. However, the Acty van offers a driving experience that other cars do not have. The weight balance due to the difference in engine position, the rear-wheel-drive-based performance, and the ease of handling the small body are the unique appeal of Honda's light vans. If you are only considering practicality, the Every is the choice, but if you want a touch of uniqueness, consider the Acty Van. The HH3/HH4 series Acty Van in particular offers a good balance between the vintage feel and practicality, making it a good choice for users who want to enjoy driving a light van. However, if you will be using it for work every day, you should definitely compare parts supply and maintenance conditions.

Specifications of the Second Generation Honda Acty Van

Engine: 550cc 3-cylinder SOHC (E05A model) / 660cc 3-cylinder SOHC (E07A model) Transmission: 5MT / 3AT Drive system: MR / Real-time 4WD Features: Introduced in 1988. The initial model met the 550cc standard (HH1/HH2), and after the 1990 standard revision, the engine capacity was increased to 660cc (HH3/HH4), along with an increase in the body length by 100mm. Featuring a box-type body with a spacious cargo area, it was widely used for purposes ranging from commercial delivery to leisure. Honda Street, a higher-grade passenger-oriented model, was also developed based on this lineage.

The Charm of the Third Generation Honda Acty Van

The newest and most practical choice, the Activan.

The third-generation Acty Van, which debuted in June 1999, is the final generation. According to Honda's official used car catalog, the third-generation Acty Van was listed in separate periods from June 1999 to November 2005, December 2005 to January 2007, February 2007 to July 2010, August 2010 to February 2015, and March 2015 to July 2018. This means that the HH5/HH6 series is the final model of the Acty Van that was sold for a long time. One of the major features of this generation is the semi-bonnet design, focused on improving frontal collision safety. It is equipped with an electronically controlled 660cc E07Z straight-three gasoline engine, and both the 2WD HH5 and 4WD HH6 were offered. While ensuring space for cargo as a commercial van, it offers improved safety and comfort compared to conventional models. The third generation Acty Van is the most realistically recommendable to international buyers. It is relatively new, widely available, and offers a choice of automatic transmission, manual transmission, and 4WD models. It is versatile enough for small deliveries, agriculture, parts transportation, hobby tool transportation, and as a base for a light camper van. It offers a unique Honda-style layout while being a practical vehicle with a good balance.

Drawbacks of the Third-Generation Honda Acty Van

Please note that production has ended and be aware of wear and tear as a commercial vehicle.

The third-generation Acty Van, although comparatively newer, is no longer available for purchase as a new vehicle since sales ended in July 2018. If you're considering a used car, be aware of significant condition variances. Units that have been used for many years as commercial vehicles may show signs of wear, even if the exterior looks clean - the cargo floor, sliding door, rear gate, suspension, clutch, automatic transmission, air conditioning, and electric fans might be worn out. Although its semi-bonnet design has made it safer, it is primarily designed as a light commercial vehicle. You cannot expect the silence and comfort typical of passenger minivans. The engine tends to rev higher on highways, and it can be affected by crosswinds. Carrying heavy loads also adds strain to the brakes and suspension, which emphasizes the need for good maintenance. When using it overseas, please be sure to check the registration regulations for right-hand drive vehicles, treatment of kei car standards, and parts availability. Parts for the HH5/HH6 series are relatively easy to find, but obtaining specific parts can take time in some countries. When purchasing, it’s recommended to prioritize maintenance history, minimal rusting, engine sound, transmission condition, and the operability of the 4WD system rather than the mileage.

Third-generation Honda ActyVan's competitors

Daihatsu Hijet Cargo

The greatest rival of the third generation Acty Van is the Daihatsu Hijet Cargo. The Hijet Cargo is a staple in the light commercial van market, excelling in distribution volume, parts supply, and maintainability. While the Acty Van boasts Honda’s unique layout and driving feel, the Hijet Cargo stands strong with its practicality and widespread sales network. In regions where the van is used for daily work, the Hijet Cargo may be a safer choice. Its parts are easily obtainable, and there are plenty of garages that can service it. On the other hand, the Acty Van carries a distinct personality unlike other light vans. Especially the HH5/HH6 generation, allowing you to enjoy both the convenience of its cargo compartment and the characteristic Honda mechanism. When considered for overseas use, if practicality is a priority, the Hijet Cargo is more suitable. However, if you value Honda's unique character and JDM-like feel, the Acty Van is the way to go. The Acty Van is quite attractive for camping specifications or if made into hobby vehicles. However, if you plan on using it as a commercial vehicle for an extended period, be sure to check the local supply of parts and maintenance experience.

Specifications of the 3rd Generation Honda Acty Van

Engine: 660cc inline 3-cylinder SOHC (E07Z model) Transmission: 5MT / 3AT (2WD vehicles) / 4AT (4WD vehicles after August 2010) Drive System: MR (HH5) / Real-time 4WD (HH6) Features: Introduced in June 1999, this is the final generation of the Acty Van. The model number for 2WD is HH5 and for 4WD is HH6. It features a semi-bonnet type body for improved safety over previous models. It was sold until July 2018, and the N-VAN has taken over its role. This model is versatile, suitable for light delivery, work vehicles, hobby cars, and as a base for small camper vans.