DOTS - Unicorn hybrid editon!

"RallyDarkstrike - Fan of 2-cyl FIATs, Eastern Bloc & Kei cars" (rallydarkstrike) 10/08/2016 at 10:52 • Filed to: Dots, Honda Insight

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There are few Insights around here at all, let alone first gens! I’m not a big hybrid fan, but compared to the smug, odd designs of later models from Toyota and Honda, I always thought the first-gen Insight was a much better looking car. Hints at it’s ‘Eco’ origins, but nothing extraordinary...just decent, clean lines. :)

This one was spotted outside the local arena/pool/library/community center building.

Pardon the dirty driver’s window! Didn’t have time to put it down as I was pulling out of my spot and blocking that parking lot lane at the time...

facw > RallyDarkstrike - Fan of 2-cyl FIATs, Eastern Bloc & Kei cars 10/08/2016 at 11:35

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If I had extra time and space, I’d love to buy a cheap first gen Insight and either refurbish the battery (probably not in very good shape at this point), or figure out some sort of engine swap, which could be fun given how light and aerodynamic the car is.

RallyDarkstrike - Fan of 2-cyl FIATs, Eastern Bloc & Kei cars > facw 10/08/2016 at 11:38

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I would think even a smaller engine would give it a fair bit of oomph! :)

Tatanko > RallyDarkstrike - Fan of 2-cyl FIATs, Eastern Bloc & Kei cars 10/08/2016 at 11:40

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Those were offered with a manual, too! The only other hybrid I know of that was given that option is the current (past?) CR-Z, and we all know how not-enthusiastic that car is/was.

TheDutchTexan > RallyDarkstrike - Fan of 2-cyl FIATs, Eastern Bloc & Kei cars 10/08/2016 at 11:50

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I came across one not too long ago. I have a weird affectiation to those little hybrids myself. But... admittedly I would want to put a staut VTEC mill in the front with a 6 speed manual and embarrass some people. And probably still get great gas mileage due to that body...

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And yes... that is a Nürburgring sticker...

RallyDarkstrike - Fan of 2-cyl FIATs, Eastern Bloc & Kei cars > TheDutchTexan 10/08/2016 at 11:54

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Haha, nice - yes, an engine swap would bring one alive, was just reading about a 485 whp engine-swapped one with AWD that still gets 45mpg when cruising!

bhtooefr > Tatanko 10/08/2016 at 16:41

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The original Civic Hybrid could be had with one too.