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If you’re a fan of Japanese car culture, you’re likely familiar with the classic Kei car. But do you know anything about Kei trucks? The Honda Acty is one of the best mini trucks ever produced. It’s small, sturdy, and versatile, designed for country roads.
If you’re interested in interesting cars or Japanese imports, keep reading to learn more about the 2nd gen Acty and how you can get one for yourself.
What Is a Kei Truck?
Kei trucks, also known as mini trucks, are small vehicles that feature right-hand drive. They are designed to be durable and versatile. Kei trucks come in various sizes, but they all have size restrictions. They cannot be wider than 58 inches, longer than 134 inches, or taller than 79 inches. These trucks have gained tremendous popularity in the import market due to their compact designs, affordability, and options for both rear and four-wheel drive.
History of the Honda Acty Truck
Mini trucks in Japan debuted in 1949, and the Honda Acty was unveiled on July 27, 1977. The Acty replaced Honda’s previous Kei trucks, the TN series. The first-gen Acty had 28 horsepower and 30 lb ft. of torque output from its 545 cc gasoline engine. Despite its limited power, the first-gen Acty sold well and lasted until 1988. In 1979, Honda introduced a van model based on the Acty truck platform.
The 2nd Gen Acty Truck
The 2nd gen Acty arrived in May 1988 with a brand new E05 SOHC 3-cylinder gasoline engine. As Kei class regulations changed, so did the Acty, keeping up with the times and developments in the Japanese car industry. In 1990, the 2nd gen Acty received a major upgrade with the E07A 656cc gasoline engine. The 2nd gen also introduced improvements such as an option for air conditioning, power steering, a radio, a 3-speed automatic transmission, and styling updates that changed the square headlights of the previous generation to rounded ones. Special trim levels like the Acty Attack and Acty Crawler offered off-road capabilities and unique features.
The 3rd Gen Acty Truck
From 1999 to 2009, the 3rd gen Acty reigned as the dominant model. It featured improvements in power, fuel efficiency, air conditioning, power steering, and safety. Safety regulations influenced the redesign of the Acty, making it the first generation to include airbags for the driver as a standard feature, with an option for passenger airbags as well. These changes were implemented in accordance with the safety standards set by the Japanese government.
4th Gen Acty Truck
Honda continued to develop and update the Acty truck until its discontinuation. The fourth generation maintained the exterior look of the previous generations and used the E072 gasoline engine with 44 hp. The wheelbase was shortened to 6.2 ft, the same as the 2nd gen, to increase cabin space.
What Makes the 2nd Gen Acty Mini Trucks Special?
The 2nd gen Acty offers unique utility compared to other generations. It introduced the option of an automatic transmission, air conditioning, and power steering, making it more accessible for drivers who can’t drive a manual. But that’s not all. The 2nd gen Acty was the first in the lineup to feature Real-time 4WD. It had a range of trim levels suited for hauling, off-roading, or daily driving. The models from 1993 onwards were fuel-injected, providing improved performance. Despite its small size, the Acty’s bed has ample space for light to medium loads. The sides and back of the bed can fold down, increasing its versatility. Due to their age, you can find these unique trucks for around $2,000-$6,000 on average, including delivery costs.
What to Know About Buying a Mini Truck Now
Like most older vehicles, buying a mini truck from over 20 years ago comes with some caveats. These trucks are designed to be workhorses, so they may have significant wear and tear and potential damage caused by previous owners. There are important aspects and warning signs to watch out for.
Safety
One of the downsides of buying an older car like the 2nd gen Acty is the lack of safety features. These trucks were made before the requirement of airbags, seatbelts, and other vital safety equipment. While they are legal to drive in the United States due to the 25-year import rule, you need to be aware of the disadvantages. Actys are older and smaller, making them more susceptible to serious damage in accidents. They may not be as suitable for highway driving, as their compact size and engines designed for the Japanese market are not optimized for high speeds and wind resistance.
Maintenance
Maintenance is another crucial factor to consider. While there is ample information available on taking care of these trucks, they still have their own set of problems. Weak timing belts, electrical issues, and passenger-side engine mount failures are common issues. The timing belts in Actys tend to wear disproportionately and fail prematurely, leading to engine failure. The electrical system may decay over time, causing problems with ECU capacitors. The engine mounts, especially the passenger-side mount, can sag and cause issues if left unrepaired. Finding parts for older and foreign cars can also be challenging.
Other Issues
When inspecting a mini truck, pay attention to the body and frame. Check for rust in the undercarriage and bed, as well as bubbles that indicate rust forming beneath the paint. Inspect the undercarriage for leaks, loose fixtures, and damaged suspension parts. Mismatched paneling could indicate previous damage that may not have been properly repaired.
Buy a Honda Acty of Your Own
Importing a Kei truck from Japan requires effort, but the reward is a fantastic truck that can handle a hard day’s work, even if it’s not fast. If you’re ready to import a 2nd gen Acty, browse Carpaydiem’s catalog. We have plenty of used mini trucks for sale, including the Honda Acty, and over 10 years of experience in the import business. Each truck we sell is professionally inspected, ensuring both quality service and a certified truck.
