Honda Insight ZE1
The aerodynamic pioneer that beat the Prius to market as the first hybrid car sold in the West.
- Power
- 76 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 12.0 s
- Top speed
- 112 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$14k
About the Honda Insight ZE1
The first-generation Honda Insight was a radical exercise in efficiency, featuring an ultra-aerodynamic body with a drag coefficient of just 0.25. It utilised an all-aluminium chassis and body panels to keep weight exceptionally low, paired with a lean-burning three-cylinder engine and a thin electric motor. While the Toyota Prius became the hybrid icon, the Insight was the enthusiast's choice, offered with a five-speed manual transmission and rear wheel spats. Its uncompromising two-seat design and focus on hypermiling have earned it a dedicated cult following among eco-conscious collectors.
Honda Insight ZE1 specs
The Honda Insight ZE1 produces 76 bhp (57 kW) and 113 Nm (83 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 12.0 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).
| Make | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model | Insight |
| Generation | ZE1 |
| Trim | 1.0 IMA |
| Years | 1999–2006 |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 17,020 built |
| Original price | About $19,000 when new |
| Engine | 1.0-litre 3-cylinder with Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 995 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 76 bhp (57 kW) at 5,700 rpm |
| Torque | 113 Nm (83 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 12.0 s |
| Top speed | 112 mph (180 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 835 kg (1,841 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 91 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 Insight ZE1 worth?
A typical Honda Insight ZE1 is estimated to be worth $4,500 – $14,000 (about £3,400 – £10,000).
Its original price when new was about $19,000.
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 Insight ZE1 rarity in CarSpot
The Honda Insight ZE1 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 18 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 Insight ZE1 fun facts
- The Insight was the first petrol-electric hybrid vehicle sold in the United States, beating the Toyota Prius by seven months.
- To save weight, the car features an aluminium front subframe and plastic-composite front wings and engine bay components.
- It achieved a record-breaking EPA highway rating of 70 mpg, a figure that remained unsurpassed by non-plug-in vehicles for over a decade.