The 1968 Honda N360AT Super Deluxe

On the day of the interview, the owner drove the fully original 1968 Honda N360AT to the photo location, navigating through the historic streets of Matsumoto. Following behind in the equipment vehicle, I witnessed an unforgettable scene: people along the roadside turned to gaze at the N360AT, their faces instantly lighting up with smiles. This car, a masterpiece that encapsulated the spirit of the late Soichiro Honda and forever changed Japan’s automotive history, remains a timeless wonder. Even more than half a century after its debut, this exceptional “N”—a true vehicle for the people—continues to bring joy to everyone who encounters it.

A single-number plate and an incredible 28,251 km of actual mileage… This exceptional N360AT, with its fully original exterior and interior, has somehow survived for over half a century in this remarkable condition. What history has allowed this car to endure so perfectly through the decades?

Eager to learn more, I immediately asked the owner…

The current owner’s father—a close family friend—was a respected obstetrician from a long line of doctors. Among the cars he owned, he had purchased this Honda N360AT brand new in 1968, using it exclusively for house calls along the narrow lanes of the old castle town, at all hours of the day and night. After retiring and later passing away, the car remained under the care of his family for about a decade. Most of his other cars were sold off quickly, but for reasons unknown, this one remained sheltered in a garage, undisturbed.

Thanks to this sheltered storage, the N360AT retained its excellent exterior condition, although the tires had gone flat, and the engine was non-functional. Feeling a strong affinity for this classic car, a hallmark of the My Car Boom of Japan’s economic miracle, the current owner took on the challenge, acquiring the car and dedicating three years to restoring it to a roadworthy state.

When the restoration began, the engine was sound, but issues were quickly discovered: clogged fuel hoses, carburetor trouble, and seized brakes, confirmed by a local workshop. Thankfully, the fuel tank had been stored empty, so it hadn’t corroded. However, the fuel hoses, carburetor, and drum brakes all needed overhauls. The most challenging repairs were replacing the carburetor’s accelerator pump diaphragm and finding a new wheel cylinder for the brakes. After much searching, the parts were found and installed, with the entire process—from sourcing to repairs—spanning three years before the vehicle finally passed inspection.

As seen in the final photos, the spare tire is missing from the engine bay. There are two steel wheels in the rear trunk, borrowed from a Honda Z of the same era, which have a different rim width and offset. These wheels fit snugly within the front fenders to meet inspection requirements, as the N360’s original design had the front tires slightly extending past the fenders. While some inspection offices accept the original setup, these substitute wheels ensure the car can pass if needed.

Now riding on new Dunlop SP10 10-inch tires, mounted on period-correct Hayashi Racing aluminum wheels, the revived 1968 Honda N360AT Super Deluxe drives with the distinctive sound of its air-cooled, two-cylinder SOHC engine. Smooth acceleration, powered by Honda’s first automatic transmission, the HondaMatic, brings joy as it glides through city streets. With about 40 horsepower, it struggles a bit on steep hills, but in the city, it runs seamlessly, offering the charm of a vintage car. The original AM radio adds an authentic atmosphere for a leisurely drive.

A polish with linseed oil brings out the best in its patina, preserving its original charm. There’s some rust on the engine hood, but the original paint still shines. Remarkably, the driver’s door panel retains its factory protective vinyl, while the right rear window weather strip has a minor flaw. The seats, however, are in pristine condition, bringing a tear to the eye. The faux wood trim evokes a walnut finish like British cars of the era, with a circular speedometer reading 28,251 km, a classic fuel gauge, and an original AM radio that still works perfectly. The unblemished, thick crash pad and original steering wheel remain intact, exuding an authentic period atmosphere that is genuinely moving.

While rust spots are visible on the front grille, chrome bumper, and behind the wheel arches, they add to the car’s patina, enhancing its original charm. The undercarriage, floor, and trunk floor are remarkably free from corrosion.

This exceptional survivor, preserved by an incredible series of events, remains a piece of Japanese automotive history. The current owner is determined to preserve it for future generations. For more on the history of the Honda N360, please read on.