Duncan Imports and Classic Cars
2300 Prospect Drive
Christiansburg, VA 24073
The 1972 Honda Life is a first-generation Japanese kei car (ultra-compact city car) that marked a monumental shifting point in Honda's early automotive engineering history. Launched originally in mid-1971 to replace the popular but crude air-cooled N360, the 1972 model year solidified the 'Life' nameplate as a more refined, comfortable, and reliable vehicle tailored for tightly packed urban environments. The engineering hallmark of the 1972 model was its focus on vibration reduction, lower emissions, and mechanical reliability: - The EA Engine: A 356cc water-cooled, two-cylinder inline engine. Water cooling was a massive upgrade over the N360, as it eliminated cabin-heating odors and significantly muffled engine noise. - Innovative Timing Belt: It was the very first production car engine in Japan to feature a timing belt to drive the overhead camshaft. - Balance Shaft: Honda equipped the engine with a balance shaft to counteract two-cylinder vibration, making it feel as smooth as a four-cylinder motor. - The standard variants delivered 30 horsepower. In May 1972, Honda launched the high-performance Life Touring variant, which utilized twin carburetors to push 36 horsepower at a screaming 9,000 rpm. - Separate Gearbox: Unlike prior setups where the transmission shared a sump with the engine oil, the Life moved to a modernized, separate layout. Honda maximized the vehicle's tiny 2,995 mm (117.9 in) legal kei car length footprint by introducing several distinct configurations: - Four-Door Sedan: This marked Honda's very first four-door passenger sedan layout, offering unprecedented entry convenience for a vehicle of this footprint. - Three-Door Hatchback/Wagon: A highly practical commuter layout featuring a rear utility door. - Life Step Van: Introduced in September 1972, this ultra-boxy, tall-roof multi-purpose micro-van prioritized cargo capability. It would later become a cult classic and pop culture staple (even featured across various generations of the Gran Turismo video game franchise). - Life Pick-up: A utilitarian truck variant built on the same architecture. Part of the Duncan Imports private collection since 2022 this car recently was moved to retail. 51,638 Kilometers
| Year: | 1972 |
| Make: | Honda |
| Model: | Life |
| Mileage: | 32086 |
| Exterior Color: | White |
| Interior Color: | Black |
| Trim: | |
| Body: | Sedan |
| Stock: | JGAC1089 |
| Engine Size: | 2 Cylinder |
| Transmission: | Manual |
| Vin: | 00000000SA1099378 |
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Are you a classic car collector looking for your next big addition? Have you always loved the performance and uniqueness of Japanese domestic right-hand-drive vehicles? No matter the vintage or antique vehicle you're searching for, you can visit our classic car dealerships in Christiansburg and Nashville to find your perfect match. Duncan Imports & Classics proudly boasts the widest selection of classic cars and Japanese domestic imports in North America, making us the one-stop shop for every dedicated enthusiast. We share the same passion for automobiles as you do, and we also carry JDM parts in Nashville and Christiansburg to help you keep your vehicle performing at its finest.
Our expansive inventory of , classic cars and more has something for every local vintage car fan. Plus, you can rest assured during the purchase process knowing we follow all federal and Commonwealth regulations on vehicle imports. So, shop our selection of Autozam, Honda and Mitsubishi mini trucks, or check out our eye-catching classic convertibles to take on daily drives with elegance and style. Whether you'd like to take home a Suzuki RHD vehicle, classic Isuzu SUV or any other model from our inventory, we'll make your entire experience one you'll always remember!
Have you found the perfect collector vehicle on All Collector Cars? Before you make any decisions, we recommend that you take some time now to read the full description and review all the pictures with the listing. It’s important to do as much due diligence as you can before you contact the seller so that you’re prepared to ask about any flaws you see—and perhaps ones you don’t.
All Collector Cars allows our sellers to post unlimited vehicle pictures and descriptions, which gives you, the buyer, more control and information. In addition, our Buyers Resource section offers advice and vendor recommendations to guide you through the buying process, from classic car financing & insurance to collector vehicle shipping & restoration.
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