Honda’s Tiny Z Hides Its Turbo Engine Where a Chiron Does, for Kei-Car Money

Honda’s second-generation Z is a bizarre kei hatchback that packs a mid-engine turbocharged powertrain under its boxy, utilitarian body—delivering exotic-car layout for kei-car prices.

The 1999 Honda Z, now available in the U.S., is a mid-engined, all-wheel-drive kei hatch that defies expectations with its engineering pedigree.

Beneath its unassuming, washing-machine-sized exterior lies a turbocharged 656 cc three-cylinder engine mounted ahead of the rear axle, sending power through a four-speed automatic to all four wheels.

Honda dubbed this layout “UM-4” (Under Midship 4WD), a setup shared with the brand’s mid-engined Acty kei trucks and vans. The result is a flat cabin floor, improved packaging, and near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution.

The Z debuted in 1998 as a revival of Honda’s classic Z nameplate from the 1970s, briefly sold in the U.S. as the Z600.

Turbocharged models were capped at 63 HP (64 PS) under Japan’s kei regulations, with all-wheel drive standard. The transmission was limited to a four-speed automatic.

A rare California-titled example, showing 84,500 km (52,600 miles), is heading to a virtual auction on Cars & Bids.

Finished in silver with a gray and blue interior, it includes air conditioning, power windows, folding rear seats, and period accessories like a JVC CD changer and radio-controlled clock.

The listing notes a cracked windshield, minor cosmetic flaws, interior wear, and some underbody corrosion, but overall, the car wears its 27 years well.

For enthusiasts seeking one of Honda’s strangest engineering exercises, this Z is a conversation starter with exotic-car DNA and kei-car practicality.