Suzuki Suzulight
The pioneering front-wheel drive microcar that launched Suzuki's automotive legacy.
- Power
- 16 bhp
- Top speed
- 53 mph
- Est. value
- $25k–$35k
About the Suzuki Suzulight
The Suzulight was Suzuki's first production automobile, designed to meet Japan's early 'Keijidosha' (Kei car) regulations. Heavily influenced by the German Lloyd LP400, it was remarkably advanced for its time, featuring a transverse engine, front-wheel drive, and four-wheel independent suspension. The 1955 SS sedan variant is exceptionally rare, as production was initially limited to just a few units per month and the model was quickly superseded by more popular commercial variants. Its successful 300km test run across the unpaved Hakone mountains proved the durability of Suzuki's engineering, establishing the brand as a specialist in small, efficient vehicles.
Suzuki Suzulight specs
The Suzuki Suzulight produces 16 bhp (12 kW) and 31 Nm (23 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 53 mph (85 km/h).
| Make | Suzuki |
|---|---|
| Model | Suzulight |
| Trim | 360 |
| Years | 1955–1959 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 43 built |
| Engine | 359cc air-cooled two-stroke inline-2 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 360 cc (0.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 16 bhp (12 kW) at 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 31 Nm (23 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 53 mph (85 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 520 kg (1,146 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 31 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Suzuki Suzulight worth?
A typical Suzuki Suzulight is estimated to be worth $25,000 – $35,000 (about £19,000 – £26,000).
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
Suzuki Suzulight rarity in CarSpot
The Suzuki Suzulight is a Unicorn card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 100 out of 100. The rarest tier: hypercars, one-offs and cars built in tiny numbers, typically fewer than about 500. A Unicorn card is worth 320 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.
Suzuki Suzulight fun facts
- The Suzulight was the first Japanese car to use a front-engine, front-wheel drive (FF) layout.
- Only 43 units of the original SS sedan were ever built, making it one of the rarest Japanese production cars.
- Company founder Michio Suzuki personally delivered the first unit to a local doctor who had previously made house calls on a bicycle.