The minivan Honda Life 1997 - 1998 year modification 0.7 AT (48 hp)

Engine
Engine type	petrol
Engine location	front, transverse
Engine capacity, cm³	656
Boost type	No
Maximum power, hp/kW at rpm	48 / 35 at 6300
Maximum torque, N*m at rpm	56 at 5500
Cylinder arrangement	in-line
Number of cylinders	3
Number of valves per cylinder	4
Engine power supply system	distributed injection
Compression ratio	9.8
Cylinder diameter and piston stroke, mm	66 × 64
General information
Brand country	Japan
Model assembly	Japan
Car class	A
Number of doors	5
Performance indicators
Fuel consumption, l city / highway / combined	— / — / 6
Fuel type	Normal (92)
Sizes in mm
Length	3295
Width	1395
Height	1710
Wheelbase	2330
Ground clearance	155
Front track width	1225
Rear track width	1225
Suspension and brakes
Type of front suspension	independent, spring
Type of rear suspension	dependent, spring
Front brakes	disc
Rear brakes	drum
Transmission
Transmission	automatic
Number of gears	3
Drive type	front
Volume and weight
Fuel tank capacity, l	30
Curb weight, kg	780

Honda Life: A Compact Minivan with Japanese Precision

The Honda Life, a compact minivan produced from 1997 to 1998, is a quintessential example of Japanese engineering tailored for urban efficiency. Designed as a passenger car with a minivan body type, it offers practicality and reliability in a small package. With its 5-door configuration and front-wheel drive, the Honda Life is perfect for navigating tight city streets while providing ample space for passengers and cargo.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the Honda Life features a 656 cm³ petrol engine with a 3-cylinder in-line configuration. This lightweight engine delivers 48 horsepower at 6300 rpm and a torque of 56 N*m at 5500 rpm, making it ideal for city driving. The automatic 3-speed transmission ensures smooth gear shifts, while the front-wheel-drive system enhances maneuverability. With a combined fuel consumption of 6 liters per 100 km, the Honda Life is an economical choice for daily commutes.

Compact Yet Spacious Design

Despite its compact dimensions—3295 mm in length, 1395 mm in width, and 1710 mm in height—the Honda Life maximizes interior space. Its 2330 mm wheelbase and 155 mm ground clearance provide stability and comfort, even on uneven roads. The minivan body type offers versatility, making it suitable for families or individuals who need extra cargo space without sacrificing agility.

Safety and Suspension

The Honda Life is equipped with an independent front suspension and a dependent rear suspension, both with spring systems, ensuring a balanced ride. Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes provide reliable stopping power, enhancing safety. While the car lacks advanced modern safety features, its sturdy build and responsive handling make it a dependable choice for urban environments.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Excellent fuel efficiency, compact size for easy parking, spacious interior for a minivan, reliable Japanese engineering, and smooth automatic transmission.
Cons: Limited power for highway driving, basic safety features compared to modern vehicles, and a small fuel tank capacity of 30 liters.

Historical Context and Legacy

The Honda Life reflects the late 1990s trend of compact, fuel-efficient vehicles designed for urban living. Its production period coincided with a growing demand for practical, affordable cars in Japan. While it may not boast the advanced technology of contemporary models, the Honda Life remains a testament to Honda's commitment to quality and innovation in compact car design.

Conclusion

The Honda Life is a practical and economical choice for those seeking a reliable minivan for city driving. Its compact size, efficient engine, and versatile design make it a standout in its class. While it may lack the power and modern features of newer models, its affordability and durability ensure it remains a valuable option for budget-conscious drivers.