United Kingdom vs Japan — 1967 vs 1964
| Sprite MkIV Roadster | S600 Roadster | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 65 hp | 57 hp |
| Torque | 70 lb-ft | 38 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,275 cc | 606 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.2 sec | 13.4 sec |
| Top Speed | 95 mph | 90 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.5 sec | 18.9 sec |
| Weight | 1,627 lbs | 1,532 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,032 mm | 2,000 mm |
| Length | 3,530 mm | 3,300 mm |
| Units Produced | 22,793 | 13,084 |
| Original MSRP | $2,195 | $1,595 |
| Value (Excellent) | $22,000 | $90,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster brings more power, higher top speed, better value to the table, and the 1964 Honda S600 Roadster answers with quicker acceleration, lighter weight, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between United Kingdom and Japan automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster versus 1964 Honda S600 Roadster is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster producing 65 hp and the 1964 Honda S600 Roadster delivering 57 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 1,275 cc, while the Honda S600 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 606 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Honda S600 Roadster edges ahead at 13.4 seconds versus 14.2 seconds. On the collector market, the 1964 Honda S600 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1967 Austin-Healey Sprite MkIV Roadster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1964 Honda S600 Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.