Bottom Line Up Front
The 1964 Honda S600 managed a jaw‑dropping 9,500 rpm on a tiny 606 cc engine, even though oil pressure was practically zero at those speeds.
Honda S600: How a 606cc Engine Hit 9,500 RPM with Almost No Oil Pressure
Image: Honda S600: How a 606cc Engine Hit 9,500 RPM with Almost No Oil Pressure – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The S600 looked like a miniature sports car. Its low, sleek nose, pop‑up headlights, and a short‑wheel‑base gave it a look that still turns heads at classic car shows. Inside, the cockpit is tight but functional – a simple dash, three‑spoke steering wheel, and bucket seats that hug the driver. Honda kept the weight down, using thin‑walled steel and aluminum where possible, which helped the little engine feel lively.
Performance & Mileage
Reaching 9,500 rpm sounds impossible for a 606 cc unit, but Honda used a free‑spinning crankshaft and a specially tuned, high‑revving cam. The engine’s bore‑stroke was short, allowing it to spin fast without excessive stress. Because the oil pump relied on engine speed, pressure dropped dramatically as the revs climbed. Yet the engine’s design tolerated low pressure for short bursts, letting the S600 sprint without damage.
| Engine | Mileage | Price (1964) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 606 cc inline‑four, 9,500 rpm redline | ≈30 mpg (US) | $2,995 |
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Even with its high‑rev nature, the S600 was decent on fuel for its era – around 30 mpg – thanks to the small displacement. The trade‑off was a peaky power band; you had to keep the revs high to stay in the sweet spot.
Price & Rivals
When it launched, the S600 cost about $3,000, positioning it against the Datsun Fairlady and early MG sports cars. Those rivals offered larger engines but were heavier and less rev‑focused. Honda’s edge was the sheer novelty of a Japanese‑built, high‑rev sports car at a modest price.
FAQ
- What is the top speed of the Honda S600? The S600 could reach roughly 95 mph (153 km/h) in stock form, thanks to its high‑rev engine.
- Is the S600 safe to drive at 9,500 rpm today? Modern experts advise against prolonged high‑rev runs because oil pressure is low; short bursts are okay, but regular high‑rev use can risk engine wear.
- How does the S600 compare to the Datsun Fairlady? The Fairlady had a larger engine (1.0‑1.5 L) and more torque, but the S600 was lighter, revved higher, and cost less.
What do you think about Honda’s daring engineering? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
