Honda

From humble beginnings making motorbikes in the immediate postwar years, by 1959 Honda was the largest motorcycle manufacturer in the world. Having always had an interest in automobiles, Soichiro Honda made his first four-wheeled transport in 1963 - the T360 small truck. His first big splash in the automotive world came a year later with the launch of the fascinating, minute S600 sports car that utilized engineering gained from motorcycle manufacture. By the early 1970s the Honda name became synonymous with zippy, reliable and fun small and micro cars.

In the 1980s Honda engines would dominate Formula One as they became world leaders in engine technology with V-TEC, Honda’s patented variable valve timing. In between - they made several memorable cars that we still remember fondly. From the S600 sports car to the N600 micro car, the brilliant Civic, Accord, Integra, Prelude, and CRX pocket rocket to the magnificent NSX supercar. By the 1990s Honda had established themseles as a prestige brand worthy of standing alongside rivals from Europe.