Honda S800 Mark 2 - Exudes Timeless Engineering
Year: 1969
Make: Honda
Model: S800
Series: Mark 2
Body: 2-Door Coupe
Drive Type: Rear wheel drive
Odometer: Indicating 54,509 Miles
Engine: 0.8 I4 Petrol
Transmission: 4-Speed Manual
Colour: White
Seats: 2
Description/extras: A stunning example of Japanese engineering fused with European-inspired design, this 1969 Honda S800 Mark 2 presents an increasingly rare opportunity to acquire one of the finest compact sports coupes of the late 1960s. Finished in its factory-correct white exterior, this two-door, two-seater coupe exudes charm, character, and a performance spirit that belies its compact proportions.
This example is the desirable S800M, or Mark 2 variant, which featured several upgrades, including flush-mounted interior door handles, side marker lights, dual-circuit brakes, and lean-burn carburettors. These changes were made for the American market, although the car was never officially exported there. Today, only around 60 S800S are registered in the UK, with an even smaller number believed to be roadworthy.
Under the bonnet lies the car’s original 0.8-litre inline-four petrol engine, famed for its incredible revving capability and twin overhead cam design. Fed by four carburettors, this jewel of an engine redlines at a staggering 9,000 rpm and will pull to 11,000 rpm, offering a thrilling driving experience like no other. It’s an engine that sings, especially when working through the revs on an open road.
Paired with a 4-speed manual transmission, the S800 offers sharp, mechanical gear changes and a direct connection between driver and machine. Combined with a lightweight body and compact footprint, the car feels nimble and eager, handling like rails. Despite its modest displacement, it delivers a genuinely exhilarating experience—all within legal speed limits.
This example shows just 54,509 miles on the odometer and benefits from a comprehensive restoration undertaken in Ireland approximately four years ago, before being brought into the UK. During this restoration, the car received new seat bases, was recovered, had a new headlining, fresh chrome, and a complete repaint. The result is a clean, well-finished example that still presents with originality and honesty.
While the Irish restoration was thorough, the current owner has since gone through the car with a fine-tooth comb to ensure everything is up to standard. The mechanical work was entrusted to Tony Sighe, a well-respected Honda technician and S800 Club member who also races S800S and is renowned for his expertise on this rare model.
Under his stewardship, work included a new clutch, new brakes, and a full engine inspection. The cylinder head was removed, pistons checked, and a new head gasket installed. The result is an engine that runs smoothly, efficiently, and reliably—just as Honda intended.
Mechanically, the car is in excellent condition. It starts promptly, idles steadily, and revs freely with a satisfying scream from the exhaust as it climbs the rev range. The handling is tight and composed, the brakes are firm, and the driving dynamics are confidence-inspiring. This car lives up to its reputation as an actual pocket rocket.
The interior has been sympathetically restored to an excellent standard. The refinished seats and new carpets contribute to a fresh and inviting cabin, while the original dashboard and gauges remain in place and fully operational. It's a driver-focused layout, minimal yet purposeful, providing a truly analog experience.
The exterior is equally appealing. While the body shows minor touch-ups, it presents very well with solid bodywork and attractive paintwork. The chrome trim is in superb condition, catching the light beautifully and adding elegance to the S800’s sleek and compact silhouette.
The dimensions of the S800M—just 3,335mm long, 1,400mm wide, and 1,215mm high—make it exceptionally agile and ideal for narrow country roads or tight city streets. Yet despite its small footprint, it offers big thrills. Its low centre of gravity and balanced chassis inspire spirited cornering with minimal body roll.
The S800 was the final evolution of Honda’s first generation of sports cars and marked the end of production in 1970. It would be another 30 years before Honda revived the “S” series name with the legendary S2000, making the S800 its direct ancestor. As such, the S800 holds a special place in the Honda legacy and automotive history.
With just 11,536 examples produced globally, the S800 is a rare and increasingly desirable collector's item. This particular example, with its original engine, documented restoration, expert servicing, and enthusiast ownership, represents a highly appealing proposition for any classic car collector or Japanese car aficionado.
An active enthusiast community, including a dedicated UK S800 Club and reliable parts support from specialist suppliers in Germany, also supports ownership. These resources help ensure that ownership of an S800 is as rewarding as the drive itself.
Whether shown at classic car meets or enjoyed on weekend drives, the S800 never fails to impress. Its unique blend of high-revving performance, mechanical ingenuity, and compact style offers a driving experience that few other cars—classic or modern—can replicate.
This 1969 Honda S800 Mark 2 has a clean UK title, low mileage, a well-documented restoration, and the reassurance of recent, expert mechanical work. It represents an increasingly rare chance to own a classic Japanese sports car with genuine pedigree and enduring appeal.
From its soaring redline to its featherweight handling and timeless design, this S800M is an automotive treasure. Whether you're a serious collector or a passionate enthusiast, this car delivers thrills, smiles, and historical significance in equal measure.
If you’re searching for an authentic, high-revving, beautifully engineered classic coupe, this 1969 Honda S800 Mark 2 deserves serious consideration. It’s a finely honed machine that offers as much joy to drive as it does to admire—ready for its next chapter in capable hands.
Chassis No: 1006100
ENG No: 1008696
LOCATION: Wellingborough, England, UK
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Sold unregistered
Lloyds stock #238758+1
** This Auction is ONLINE VIEWING and SHIPPING ONLY **
** This vendor is not registered for GST - therefore GST is not applicable on this asset **
As Standard Auction Practice all Vehicles are Sold Unregistered
As with all vehicles sold in the Classic Car Division, they have been well looked after by their previous owners. This is an Auction Sale. This asset is sold under standard auction conditions, as is, where is. High volumes of incoming product prevent our team from being able to inspect all items individually. All photos, descriptions, odometer readings, hour readings, engine specifications and any condition reports should be used as a guide only and have been compiled after speaking with the owners. To find out more about this lot or to book a live video inspection please contact the Auctioneer Contact which can be found on the Auction Details page. There is no statutory warranty & no cooling off period.
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