Honda Acty 1.0 to 4.0: The Full Generational Breakdown
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From its debut in the late 1970s to its final production run in 2021, the Honda Acty has been one of Japan’s most trusted kei-class utility trucks. Built for tight spaces, light loads, and daily reliability, the Acty has earned a loyal following in Japan — and increasingly, around the world.
In this post, we present a full “version-by-version” breakdown of the Honda Acty — from 1.0 to 4.0 — showing how this mini truck evolved across four generations, while staying true to its mission: compact practicality with a work-ready attitude.
Acty 1.0 – The Original (1977–1988)
Overview:
Engine: 545cc EH SOHC 2-cylinderDrive Layout: Mid-engine, RWD
Body Styles: Truck and van
Transmission: 4-speed manual
Top Speed: ~90 km/h (~56 mph)
The first-gen Acty was a true utility-first kei truck. Introduced in 1977, it emphasized simple engineering, cargo efficiency, and a narrow body — perfect for Japan’s urban and rural roads.
Highlights:
Flat cargo bed with a low loading heightRugged and incredibly reliable
No frills — just a tough little worker
️ Acty 2.0 – Power & Versatility (1988–1999)
Overview:
Engine: 547cc E05A → later 656cc E07ADrive Options: 2WD / 4WD
Transmissions: 5-speed manual or 3-speed auto
Notable Variants: Attack (off-road), Street (van), Crawler (6-wheel)
The second generation brought major upgrades: a more powerful engine, optional 4WD, and the addition of trims tailored to different environments — including the legendary Acty Attack, built for rough terrain with low gearing and diff lock.
Highlights:
Introduction of 4WD and auto transmissionLarger engine with better reliability
Most collectible generation among enthusiasts
️ Acty 3.0 – The Safe Workhorse (1999–2009)
Overview:
Engine: 656cc E07Z (fuel-injected)Chassis Codes: HA6/HA7 (truck), HH5/HH6 (van)
Safety: Dual airbags, optional ABS
Comfort: Better seats, optional A/C & power steering
The 3rd-gen Acty entered the modern kei era, focused on driver comfort and safety without abandoning its utilitarian roots. It retained the same engine displacement but adopted fuel injection for smoother performance and efficiency.
Highlights:
Safer and more comfortable for daily drivingStill rugged and highly customizable
A great balance of old-school simplicity with modern touches
Acty 4.0 – The Final Evolution (2009–2021)
Overview:
Engine: 656cc E07Z, ~44 hpChassis Codes: HA8 (2WD), HA9 (4WD)
Wheelbase: Ultra-short 1.9 meters
Upgrades: Dual airbags, ABS, quieter cabin
The final generation was the most refined. It retained much of the tried-and-tested engineering while adding modern safety, noise reduction, and a tighter turning radius. Unfortunately, it was also the last — Honda ceased production in April 2021 due to rising compliance costs.
Highlights:
Peak maneuverability for city useStill available in 4WD
2018 special edition honored Honda’s T360 heritage
Acty Generational Comparison Table
Gen Years Engine Layout Key Features
1.0 1977–1988 545cc EH Mid-engine RWD Lightweight, reliable, no-frills
2.0 1988–1999 547→656cc E07A Mid-engine RWD/4WD Attack & Crawler variants, more power
3.0 1999–2009 656cc E07Z Mid-engine RWD/4WD Fuel injection, safety features, better ride
4.0 2009–2021 656cc E07Z Mid-engine RWD/4WD ABS, airbags, compact wheelbase, modernizedFinal Thoughts: A Legacy in Four Acts
From 1.0 to 4.0, the Honda Acty tells a story of thoughtful, incremental improvement. While kei trucks may look simple from the outside, the Acty is a masterclass in efficient engineering. Whether you’re hauling lumber, navigating a mountain trail, or just enjoying a slice of JDM life — there's a generation of Acty built for you.Would you like me to turn this into a downloadable buyer’s guide, or add import tips for each generation?
Honda Acty Mini Truck Overview – Generations, Specs & Features
Explore the complete history, specifications, and key features of the Honda Acty, from its origins to its latest models, on our detailed, wiki-style page.
Oiwa Garage (oiwagarage.co)