Honda City AA
The innovative 'Tallboy' hatch that redefined urban packaging.
- Power
- 63 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.5 s
- Top speed
- 93 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$12k
About the Honda City AA
The first-generation Honda City, internal code AA, was a revolutionary approach to the supermini, prioritising vertical space to provide adult-sized legroom in a tiny footprint. Its 'Tallboy' design was a direct response to the fuel crises of the 1970s, featuring the 1.2-litre CVCC-II 'ER' engine specifically engineered for high efficiency. While the Turbo and Cabriolet variants gained cult status, the standard 1.2 remains the purest expression of Honda's 'Man Maximum, Machine Minimum' philosophy. It is famously remembered for the optional Motocompo, a folding 50cc scooter designed to fit perfectly in the boot for 'last-mile' urban transport.
Honda City AA specs
The Honda City AA produces 63 bhp (47 kW) and 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.5 seconds and has a top speed of 93 mph (150 km/h).
| Make | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model | City |
| Generation | AA |
| Trim | 1.2 |
| Years | 1981–1986 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 1.2-litre SOHC inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,231 cc (1.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 63 bhp (47 kW) at 5,000 rpm |
| Torque | 98 Nm (72 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.5 s |
| Top speed | 93 mph (150 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 655 kg (1,444 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 96 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Honda City AA worth?
A typical Honda City AA is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $12,000 (about £3,000 – £8,900).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Honda City AA rarity in CarSpot
The Honda City AA is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 16 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Honda City AA fun facts
- In Europe, the car was sold as the Honda Jazz because Opel held the rights to the 'City' name for a version of the Kadett.
- The City was narrowly beaten for the 1981-82 Japan Car of the Year award by the Toyota Soarer.
- The boot was specifically designed to accommodate the Motocompo scooter, which featured folding handlebars and seat to become a rectangular box.