Mated to a six-speed manual transmission was another refresh of Rinkai’s classic two-litre SOHC inline-four engine, this time with multi-point fuel injection and a turbocharger for a total output of 158 kW (212 hp). The base RS model’s low weight of 944 kg (2082 lb) gave it a top speed of 241 kph (150 mph) and cornering forces in excess of 0.94 g.
A limited-edition rally version called the RX was produced in 2007, receiving upgrades in the form of an offroad undertray, all-wheel drive with limited-slip differentials, lower fog lights, rally wheels, and lifted suspension. The engine and transmission were carried over from the RS model.
The Hizoku was no grand tourer, but it didn’t aim to be. Although sacrifices were made in terms of comfort, it proved to be a popular little car with an acceptable price tag.
RS
Layout MR
Engine Name RI1-4S
Aspiration TB
Displacement 1999 cc
Peak Power 158 kW (212 hp) @ 6700 RPM
Peak Torque 252 Nm (186 ft-lb) @ 5600 RPM
Weight 944 kg (2082 lb)
Weight Distribution Front/Rear 38/62
STARTING PRICE
¥1,905,000 JDM
$17,750 USDM
COLOURS
Ardour Red
Tangerine
Legacy Sunset Orange
Candy Burnt Orange
Hornet Yellow
Vivid Green
Kuromatsu
Electric Blue
Pacific Blue
Legacy Coastal Blue
Sandy Khaki
Ethereal White
Steel Grey
Sumi Black
RX
Layout MR
Engine Name RI1-4S
Aspiration TB
Displacement 1999 cc
Peak Power 158 kW (212 hp) @ 6700 RPM
Peak Torque 252 Nm (186 ft-lb) @ 5600 RPM
Weight 1009 kg (2224 lb)
Weight Distribution Front/Rear 39/61
STARTING PRICE
¥2,225,000 JDM
$21,000 USDM
COLOURS
Ardour Red
Tangerine
Legacy Sunset Orange
Candy Burnt Orange
Hornet Yellow
Vivid Green
Kuromatsu
Electric Blue
Pacific Blue
Legacy Coastal Blue
Sandy Khaki
Ethereal White
Steel Grey
Sumi Black