Isuzu Piazza JR
Giugiaro's 'Ace of Clubs' concept brought to life with Lotus-tuned handling.
- Power
- 150 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.2 s
- Top speed
- 130 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$20k
About the Isuzu Piazza JR
The Isuzu Piazza, known as the Impulse in North America, is a cult-classic sports coupé based on Giorgetto Giugiaro's 1979 Asso di Fiori concept. While its wedge-shaped styling was futuristic, its early handling was hampered by an aged rear-wheel-drive chassis derived from the GM T-platform. The 1988 model year represents the car's peak, featuring the 'Handling by Lotus' package which introduced revised dampers, springs, and larger brakes to tame its live-axle setup. Rare and technically unique, it remains a standout example of 1980s Japanese design ambition.
Isuzu Piazza JR specs
The Isuzu Piazza JR produces 150 bhp (112 kW) and 226 Nm (167 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.2 seconds and has a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).
| Make | Isuzu |
|---|---|
| Model | Piazza |
| Generation | JR |
| Trim | 2.0 Turbo |
| Years | 1981–1990 |
| Type | JDM |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Original price | About $14,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,994 cc (2.0 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 150 bhp (112 kW) at 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 226 Nm (167 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,900 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.2 s |
| Top speed | 130 mph (210 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,250 kg (2,756 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 120 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is an Isuzu Piazza JR worth?
A typical Isuzu Piazza JR is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $20,000 (about £3,000 – £15,000).
Its original price when new was about $14,000.
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
Isuzu Piazza JR rarity in CarSpot
The Isuzu Piazza JR is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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.
Isuzu Piazza JR fun facts
- The interior features unique 'satellite' control pods behind the steering wheel that move with the column adjustment.
- The Piazza was the first passenger car Isuzu sold in the UK under its own brand name.
- Lotus, then a GM subsidiary, was tasked with fixing the car's handling, resulting in the sought-after 'Handling by Lotus' editions.