The Honda Beat is a kei-class two-seat roadster with a compact footprint: roughly 3.39–3.40 meters long, about 1.48 meters wide, and around 1.18–1.20 meters tall, giving it a very low, sport-oriented silhouette. It remains within kei-car size limits of 3,400 mm in length and 1,480 mm in width.
Below is a concise breakdown of its size specifications and how they compare to kei standards. Note that exact figures can vary slightly by model year and trim.
Core size figures
These measurements reflect typical original-spec Beat dimensions commonly cited in brochures and databanks.
Exterior dimensions
- Length: 3,395 mm (about 3.40 m)
- Width: 1,480 mm (1.48 m)
- Height: around 1,180–1,200 mm
- Wheelbase: approximately 2,320 mm
These exterior dimensions give the Beat its iconic low and compact stance, designed for agile handling in urban and twisty roads. Variations exist by year and top configuration.
Weight and mass
- Curb weight: roughly 680–740 kg (commonly around 690 kg)
Weight figures can shift slightly with top choice (soft top vs. hardtop), trims, and measurement tolerances. Always check the specific vehicle brochure for the exact figure.
Kei-class size context
Honda designed the Beat to comply with Japan's kei-car rules, which impose maximums on exterior size to keep urban driving practical and tax-advantaged. The key kei limits are:
- Maximum length: 3,400 mm
- Maximum width: 1,480 mm
Height is not fixed by kei rules, but Beat models typically sit well under 1.3 meters tall, aiding its silhouette and aerodynamics.
Model-year variations and notes
Produced from 1991 through 1996, the Beat maintained its compact footprint across most trim levels. While some market-specific options and top configurations affected weight or slight aerodynamics, core length and width remained within kei limits. For precise figures, refer to the brochure for the exact year and market of a given car.
Notable variations
Differences between models mostly involved interior features, top type (soft top vs. removable hardtop) or limited-edition details rather than large changes to overall size.
Summary
The Honda Beat embodies the kei-car ethos—compact, light, and sporty. Its size centers on a length near 3.40 meters, width near 1.48 meters, and a low height around 1.18–1.20 meters, with a wheelbase around 2.32 meters and a curb weight near 690 kilograms. In practice, these dimensions make it highly maneuverable and easy to park, while preserving a distinctive roadster character.
In brief: a tiny, agile, and highly characterful Honda roadster that remains faithful to kei-size constraints while delivering a spirited driving experience.