In the vibrant 1940s and 50s, Honda, celebrated for its motorcycles, faced a transformative moment when the Japanese government hinted at restricting new car manufacturers after 1961. In response, Honda swiftly initiated two ambitious projects – the T360 Kei-truck and the S360/500 sports car. Although the bill never materialised, the sports car became a legend, engineered to challenge European titans like Triumph and Austin-Healey.

At its core, the Honda S800 embodied this legacy. Evolving from its initial 351cc displacement, it reached its zenith with the "big block" 791cc motor, stunning the automotive world with stellar performance and Honda's signature quality. The naturally-aspirated, dual-overhead-cam, inline-4 engine, renowned for its lightweight build and rev-happy prowess, propelled the S800 to remarkable RPMs – 8500 in the S800. Weighing a mere 771 kg, the S800 emerged as a pinnacle of performance, epitomising an era where innovation, speed, and precision converged to create a timeless automotive legend.

This particular Honda S800 has a well-documented history that begins at Sherwood Garage, located at 194 Robin Hood Lane, Birmingham Warwick, in the UK. Originally a motorcycle shop, Sherwood Garage likely received the then-new Honda S800, a departure from their usual Honda-badged inventory.

Subsequently, the S800 transitioned to South Africa, likely exported around 2017-2018. During this period, the car underwent a comprehensive drivetrain rebuild, with new engine internals and gearbox components meticulously replaced between 2018 and 2020. This restoration not only revitalised its mechanical prowess but also ensured that the Honda S800 stood as a testament to enduring craftsmanship.

In 2022, the S800 arrived in Singapore, where it has been stored in a controlled environment, maintaining optimal temperature and humidity conditions. As this Honda S800 now graces our showroom, its well-documented history, meticulous restoration, and international journey make it a distinguished vehicle ready to be appreciated by a discerning enthusiast.

This Honda S800, with its well-preserved history and exceptional running condition, presents a compelling investment opportunity for discerning collectors. The rarity of finding such a well-maintained specimen, coupled with its heritage and performance credentials, positions this S800 as an appealing addition to any automotive portfolio.

According to classic.com, a reliable source for market trends, the value of this particular S800 has witnessed a noteworthy surge, appreciating by approximately 60% over the past five years. The allure of this investment opportunity lies not only in its rarity and impeccable running condition but also in its potential for further appreciation. As automotive enthusiasts increasingly recognise the historical significance and scarcity of well-preserved examples, this Honda S800 stands as a testament to a bygone era of craftsmanship and design excellence.

Furthermore, the S800's influence extends beyond its time, serving as a precursor to later Honda sports cars, notably inspiring the iconic S2000, which emerged three decades later. The S800's legacy endures, influencing a new generation of sports cars and solidifying its status as a pivotal milestone in Honda's automotive history.