Mazda Carol Mk1
A sophisticated, four-cylinder micro-masterpiece of the early Kei car era.
- Power
- 18 bhp
- Top speed
- 56 mph
- Est. value
- $5k–$15k
About the Mazda Carol Mk1
The Mazda Carol P360 was a remarkably ambitious entry into the Japanese Kei car market, featuring a sophisticated water-cooled, all-alloy overhead-valve four-cylinder engine when most rivals used two-stroke twins. Its distinctive 'cliff-cut' vertical rear window was designed to maximise rear headroom while staying within strict length regulations. Despite its tiny dimensions, the Carol was engineered with a monocoque chassis and independent suspension on all four wheels. It became one of Japan's most popular cars of the 1960s, capturing a significant share of the microcar market before production ended in 1970.
Mazda Carol Mk1 specs
The Mazda Carol Mk1 produces 18 bhp (13 kW) and 21 Nm (15 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 56 mph (90 km/h).
| Make | Mazda |
|---|---|
| Model | Carol |
| Generation | Mk1 |
| Trim | 0.4 |
| Years | 1962–1970 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 358cc water-cooled inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 358 cc (0.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 18 bhp (13 kW) at 6,800 rpm |
| Torque | 21 Nm (15 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 56 mph (90 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 525 kg (1,157 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 34 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mazda Carol Mk1 worth?
A typical Mazda Carol Mk1 is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $15,000 (about £3,700 – £11,000).
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
Mazda Carol Mk1 rarity in CarSpot
The Mazda Carol Mk1 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 25 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.
Mazda Carol Mk1 fun facts
- The Carol's 358cc engine was one of the smallest production four-cylinder engines in automotive history.
- At its peak in the early 1960s, the Carol helped Mazda capture over 60% of the Japanese Kei car market.
- The rear-mounted engine was tilted at a 45-degree angle to save space and lower the centre of gravity.
