2001 Honda Insight Mk. I

Lot detailsYear: 2001Make: HondaModel: Insight Mk. IRegistration: RE51 MLZChassis No: JHMZE1350YT000139Odometer: 58,726• One previous owner• Long-term ownership• Low mileageFirst offered in 2000, the aluminium-bodied Honda Insight boasts a one litre, three-cylinder, 67bhp petrol engine in addition to a 13bhp electric motor. The car's aerodynamic profile and low kerb weight deliver a top speed of well over 100mph, while delivering a remarkable 60-70mpg in everyday use. With a five-speed manual gearbox, it rides on skinny tyres for reduced rolling resistance and the engine acts as a generator to recharge the battery under regenerative braking. The interior is more conventional but still offers standard fare such as air-conditioning and electric windows in addition to a wonderfully futuristic digital dashboard display comprising green and amber LEDs as you strive for optimum efficiency!Popularity of these quirky cars has really begun to rise in recent years with collectors and enthusiasts alike. This example was originally supplied in 2001 and has been in the careful care of our vendor since 2003. Before that it was owned and used sparingly by an employee of Honda UK, the car's only other owner. These cars were so well suited to daily commuting and long journeys that almost all of them seem to have covered 100,000 miles by now, and forums are full of competitions to see how far their Insights can go, with several reaching over 250,000 miles! This example has covered fewer than 60,000 and has been garaged for the duration of our vendor's ownership. The history file shows a remarkable 21 service stamps, and a comprehensive Honda service and MoT history - save for two years when the car was on SORN. Supplied to auction with a valid MoT test certificate and ULEZ compliant, we feel this Insight represents excellent value, and arguably a more interesting alternative to today's hybrids. Consigned by Charlie McCreeryGuide Price £7,000-£9,000