The Honda Today 0.7i 12V, producing 48 horsepower, was a compact hatchback produced by Honda from 1985 to 1996. Positioned as an entry-level vehicle, it was primarily aimed at the Japanese domestic market (JDM) as an affordable and practical city car. The Today represented Honda’s attempt to capture a segment of the market seeking fuel efficiency and ease of maneuverability in crowded urban environments. It was part of the broader “City” car class popular in Japan, and while never officially exported in large numbers to the United States, it has gained a following among JDM enthusiasts in recent years. The 0.7i 12V variant, with its small displacement engine and modest power output, was the base model of the Today range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Today |
| Generation | Today |
| Type (Engine) | 0.7i 12V (48 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1985 |
| End of production | 1996 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.2 kg/Hp, 70.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 11.9 kg/Nm, 83.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 48 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 57 Nm @ 5500 rpm (42.04 lb.-ft. @ 5500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 656 cm3 (40.03 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 30 l (7.93 US gal | 6.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 3295 mm (129.72 in) |
| Width | 1395 mm (54.92 in) |
| Height | 1350 mm (53.15 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2330 mm (91.73 in) |
| Front track | 1225 mm (48.23 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1225 mm (48.23 in) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 9.8 m (32.15 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 155/70 SR12 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Honda Today 0.7i 12V is its 656cc inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, designated as part of the Honda ED series, featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) and three valves per cylinder (two intake, one exhaust). The 12V designation refers to the total number of valves. The engine utilized multi-port fuel injection, a relatively advanced feature for a car in this class during the 1980s, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The engine’s modest 48 horsepower output at 6300 rpm and 57 Nm (42 lb-ft) of torque at 5500 rpm were sufficient for city driving, but limited its performance on highways or when fully loaded. The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 9.8:1 helped extract maximum power from its small displacement. The engine was mated to a five-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering. An optional three-speed automatic transmission was available, but it further reduced performance and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The Honda Today 0.7i 12V with the manual transmission offered a surprisingly engaging driving experience for a car of its size and price. The gear ratios were well-chosen to keep the engine within its optimal power band. Acceleration was brisk around town, but highway passing required careful planning. The automatic transmission, while providing convenience, noticeably dulled the car’s responsiveness. The lightweight construction of the Today – tipping the scales at around 680 kg (1499 lbs) – helped to offset the engine’s limited power. Steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension, while basic, provided a comfortable ride on most road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Honda Today 0.7i 12V was typically equipped with basic amenities. Standard features included cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout with analog gauges, and a two-speaker AM/FM radio. Power steering was often included, but air conditioning and power windows were typically optional extras. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, offering ample headroom and legroom for its size. Higher trim levels, though rare, might have included features like upgraded upholstery, a more sophisticated radio, and a sunroof. The focus was on providing a functional and affordable transportation solution.
Chassis & Braking
The Honda Today featured a front-wheel-drive layout with independent coil spring suspension at the front and a coil spring rear suspension. The front brakes were disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in this class of vehicle. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available as an option, enhancing safety. The chassis was relatively lightweight and rigid, contributing to the car’s nimble handling. The 155/70 SR12 tires provided a reasonable balance of grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Today 0.7i 12V was well-received in Japan as a practical and economical city car. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and reliability. However, its limited power and basic features were also noted. Compared to other Kei cars (Japanese microcars) of the time, the Today offered a slightly larger interior and a more refined driving experience. Compared to the slightly more powerful and upscale Honda City, the Today represented a more affordable entry point into the Honda lineup. The automatic transmission version was often criticized for its sluggish performance and reduced fuel economy compared to the manual.
Legacy
The Honda Today, particularly the 0.7i 12V variant, has developed a cult following among JDM enthusiasts in recent years. Its small size, lightweight construction, and simple mechanicals make it an appealing platform for modification and restoration. The engine, while not particularly powerful, is known for its reliability and ease of maintenance. Finding parts can be challenging outside of Japan, but a growing aftermarket support network is emerging. Today, well-maintained examples of the Honda Today 0.7i 12V are becoming increasingly collectible, representing a unique and charming piece of automotive history.
