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20 Honda Designs That Were So Wrong… They’re Now Collector’s Items

Cameron Eittreim July 2, 2025

Every automaker has a few oddballs in its history, but few brands have embraced the unconventional quite like Honda. From quirky shapes to questionable styling choices, Honda’s riskier designs often left enthusiasts scratching their heads.
What was once scoffed at, however, has become a badge of honor for collectors and fans alike. These once-maligned models now stand as symbols of innovation and boldness, fetching impressive prices at auctions and inspiring new appreciation.
This article celebrates the most eccentric Honda creations—the ones that prove today’s “wrong” can become tomorrow’s must-have classic.

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1. Honda Aztec

Mariquita, Colombia: a wooden bridge. Coloured lithograph by C. Empson, 1836. More: Original public domain image from Wellcome Collection

The Honda Aztec stunned audiences with its sharp, angular bodywork—an audacious break from the smooth lines dominating the 1990s. Its futuristic look was divisive, and many dismissed it as a design misstep.
Yet, like other bold concept cars, the Aztec has evolved into a coveted rarity among collectors. Its limited production and daring style now draw comparisons to icons such as the Pontiac Aztek, proving that risk can eventually lead to reverence.

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2. Honda Element

When the Honda Element debuted, its boxy silhouette and plastic-clad panels puzzled SUV buyers used to sleeker designs. The Element’s unapologetically utilitarian look set it apart from the curvier models of the early 2000s.
Originally seen as odd, the Element now enjoys cult status for its spacious, washable interior and practical features—a favorite among adventurers and pet owners alike. According to Car and Driver, its unconventional form is exactly what makes it so collectible today, standing out in a sea of generic crossovers.

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3. Honda Insight (First Generation)

Honda insight 1999 wallpapers 1 — A sleek Honda Insight hybrid showcases its iconic teardrop design, reflecting efficiency and modern style on the road. | Image from www.flickr.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The first-generation Honda Insight made waves with its teardrop shape and skirted rear wheels, prioritizing aerodynamics over mainstream style.
Initially mocked for its oddball looks—especially when compared to the more conventional Toyota Prius—the Insight has become a trailblazing collector’s item in the hybrid world.
As Autoweek notes, its pioneering technology and efficiency now earn respect, with enthusiasts embracing its place as a true green innovation ahead of its time.

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4. Honda Crosstour

Honda Crosstour via Honda Motor — Image Credit: Creative Commons

The Honda Crosstour took risks with its coupe-wagon fusion, resulting in a sloping roofline and unconventional stance. Many drivers balked at its silhouette, and sales lagged behind expectations.
Yet today, the Crosstour’s distinctive design stands out in a crowded crossover market, echoing the boldness of the BMW X6.
Collectors now value the Crosstour’s rarity and singular look—proof that what’s polarizing can eventually become prized.

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5. Honda S660

1280px Honda S660 %ce%b1 — A sleek Honda S660 kei sports car gleams under the sunlight, embodying the spirit of a true JDM collectible. | Image from en.wikipedia.org (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda S660 is a pint-sized marvel, boasting classic kei-car proportions and a rare mid-engine layout. Initially, critics questioned its practicality, especially outside crowded Japanese cities.
But this mini sports car has quickly become a sensation among JDM enthusiasts, joining the ranks of other iconic kei sports cars. According to Top Gear, its playful handling and exclusivity ensure its place as a sought-after collector’s gem, despite—or because of—its quirky scale.

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6. Honda Z600

The Honda Z600 arrived in the early 1970s with a compact, almost cartoonish appearance that puzzled American buyers. Its diminutive size and playful styling seemed out of place amid the era’s land yachts.
Today, collectors treasure the Z600 for its retro appeal and scarcity, drawing comparisons to the classic Mini for its charm and urban agility. As Hagerty highlights, this once-overlooked microcar is now a prized piece of Honda history.

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7. Honda Civic Del Sol

The Honda Civic Del Sol featured a quirky targa-top and proportions that divided opinion in the 1990s. Lacking the classic roadster lines of rivals like the Mazda MX-5, the Del Sol was often overlooked for its unconventional styling.
Now, nostalgia has transformed the Del Sol into a collector’s favorite, appreciated for its open-air fun and unique personality. As Autoblog notes, its once-awkward looks are now a significant part of its growing retro allure.

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8. Honda Acty Van

A classic Honda Acty micro van sits parked on a quiet street, showcasing the charm of Japanese kei vans. | Image from commons.wikimedia.org (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda Acty Van was built for pure utility, sporting a boxy, no-nonsense profile strictly aimed at commercial tasks. Once dismissed for its plain appearance, the Acty has since found new life as a quirky import sensation among enthusiasts.
Much like the Suzuki Carry, collectors now prize the Acty for its retro charm and surprising practicality. As Jalopnik points out, what was once mocked is now celebrated in the world of unique JDM vehicles.

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9. Honda Prelude (Fourth Generation)

1280px honda prelude 28198029 53091176379 — A sleek 90s Honda Prelude coupe sits under city lights, its iconic pop-up headlights gleaming with retro charm. | Image from www.flickr.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The fourth-generation Honda Prelude turned heads in the 1990s with its signature pop-up headlights and unusually flat front end. This daring design split opinions at launch, with some finding it too stark compared to other sporty coupes.
Today, the Prelude’s distinctive look has become a draw for collectors and nostalgic drivers. As Classic & Sports Car notes, its influence is seen in later coupes, and its rarity has made it a sought-after classic in the Honda lineup.

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10. Honda Beat

The Honda Beat wowed with its minuscule roadster frame and eye-catching, vibrant paint options. When first released, many dismissed it as a mere novelty—too small and playful for serious sports car enthusiasts.
Yet today, the Beat is adored in the micro sports car community, prized for its spirited drive and collectible rarity. According to Motor1, its original quirks and bright personality are exactly what make it so cherished among Honda’s most eccentric classics.

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11. Honda Ridgeline (First Generation)

The first-generation Honda Ridgeline defied pickup conventions with its unibody construction and car-like features. Traditional truck fans were initially baffled, questioning its rugged credentials and unique, angular styling.
However, as Truck Trend highlights, the Ridgeline’s innovative design has aged well, earning respect for its practicality and comfort. Collectors now seek out early models, drawn to its forward-thinking approach and its place as a pioneer in the crossover truck segment.

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12. Honda CRX

1988 Honda Crx Si Rear Three Quarter In Motion 05 1 — A bright red Honda CRX showcases its iconic wedge-shaped design, capturing the spirit of classic compact sports cars. | Image from www.flickr.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda CRX arrived with sharp, wedge-like lines and a compact hatchback silhouette, instantly setting it apart from more traditional coupes. Its unconventional shape was a bold move in the 1980s, sparking both curiosity and criticism.
Over time, the CRX’s lightweight agility made it a legend among tuners and collectors alike. As Road & Track notes, it’s now celebrated as a classic—proof that breaking design norms can create icons.

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13. Honda Accord Aerodeck

A sleek Honda Accord Aerodeck shooting brake stands out as a rare wagon gem with its distinctive profile. | Image from www.flickr.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda Accord Aerodeck stood out with its rare shooting brake design—a two-door wagon variant that left many buyers scratching their heads. Its blend of sportiness and utility was unusual for its time, making it a niche offering in the Accord family.
Today, the Aerodeck’s distinct silhouette and limited numbers have made it a favorite among collectors. As Classic & Sports Car notes, this once-puzzling Accord is now admired for its flair and exclusivity.

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14. Honda Vamos

A charming retro Honda Vamos mini SUV stands parked on a city street, showcasing classic Japanese style and personality. | Image from commons.wikimedia.org (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda Vamos emerged in the 1970s as an open-top mini SUV, sporting an eccentric, almost toy-like design. Its exposed roll bars and minimalist approach puzzled buyers, leading to slow sales and a short production run.
Yet decades later, the Vamos has achieved cult classic status among collectors who appreciate its quirky charm and rarity. According to Japanese Nostalgic Car, the Vamos now stands as a joyful oddity in Honda’s automotive history.

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15. Honda Odyssey (First Generation)

The first-generation Honda Odyssey challenged minivan norms with its compact, wagon-like proportions and car-based platform. At launch, families were skeptical—expecting larger, bulkier vans—while the Odyssey’s unconventional size and layout set it apart.
Today, this early Odyssey is celebrated for its forward-thinking design and efficient use of space. As Cars.com notes, collectors now appreciate its role in redefining the modern family vehicle, making it a sought-after piece of automotive innovation.

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16. Honda Civic Wagon (Shuttle)

A classic Honda Civic Wagon stands parked on the street, showcasing its boxy station wagon silhouette and vintage hatchback charm. | Image from commons.wikimedia.org (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda Civic Wagon, also known as the Shuttle, embraced a distinctly boxy design and focused on practicality over style. In an era favoring sleeker lines, its squared-off look was considered unfashionable.
Now, this quirky wagon is experiencing a renaissance among enthusiasts who love restoring and customizing unique classics. According to Hemmings, the Civic Wagon’s reliability and utilitarian charm have helped it become a beloved oddball in the Honda collector community.

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17. Honda N600

Honda n600 1600x1119 — Image Credit: Creative Commons

The Honda N600 was Honda’s bold entry into the American market, powered by a tiny motorcycle engine and boasting remarkably compact dimensions. Many U.S. buyers scoffed at its size, viewing it as more toy than car.
But today, the N600 is a coveted oddity in the collector world, admired for its ingenuity and place in Honda’s history. As Road & Track notes, this pint-sized pioneer has earned lasting affection for its unique charm.

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18. Honda Passport (First Generation)

The first-generation Honda Passport, essentially a rebadged Isuzu Rodeo, featured classic boxy SUV styling that seemed old-fashioned even at its debut. Critics saw it as behind the times, lacking Honda’s signature innovation.
Yet, in today’s world of rounded crossovers, the Passport’s retro rugged appeal has made it a favorite among vintage SUV collectors. As MotorTrend highlights, its throwback looks and durability are now key reasons for its renewed desirability.

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19. Honda City Turbo II (Bulldog)

A classic Honda City Turbo II JDM hatchback with a retro Motocompo folding scooter tucked neatly in the trunk. | Image from en.wikipedia.org (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda City Turbo II, or “Bulldog,” was a wild child of the 1980s, flaunting boxy lines and bold fender flares. Under its quirky skin was a turbocharged engine, making it both fun and fast for its size.
Its most iconic feature, the foldable Motocompo scooter in the trunk, cemented its place as a JDM legend. As Top Gear notes, the City Turbo II’s eccentricity and performance have made it a true collector’s prize.

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20. Honda EV Plus

The distinctive, egg-shaped Honda EV Plus showcases early electric car innovation with its compact, futuristic design. | Image from www.flickr.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda EV Plus was a trailblazer as one of the earliest production electric vehicles, arriving in the late 1990s with an unmistakable egg-shaped body. Largely overlooked by buyers and the press at launch, its futuristic design and limited range kept it in the shadows.
Today, the EV Plus is recognized as a historical milestone in the evolution of electric cars. According to Car and Driver, it’s now a rare and significant collector’s item for fans of automotive innovation.

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From Awkward to Admired

1200px honda%2c paris motor show 2018%2c paris %281y7a1799%29 — A nostalgic lineup of vintage Honda cars shines under the sun at a bustling classic car show. | Image from www.uihere.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

What was once ridiculed has become revered—a testament to the unpredictable journey of automotive design. Honda’s boldest, oddest creations, from boxy vans to futuristic hybrids, have all found new life as collector’s treasures.
Time, nostalgia, and a renewed appreciation for risk-taking have transformed these former outcasts into icons. Today’s misfit might just be tomorrow’s classic, reminding us to look beyond first impressions.
If you own or admire one of these unique Hondas, celebrate its story and legacy—because what stands apart often stands the test of time.

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20 Honda Designs That Were So Wrong… They’re Now Collector’s Items

1. Honda Aztec

2. Honda Element

3. Honda Insight (First Generation)

4. Honda Crosstour

5. Honda S660

6. Honda Z600

7. Honda Civic Del Sol

8. Honda Acty Van

9. Honda Prelude (Fourth Generation)

10. Honda Beat

11. Honda Ridgeline (First Generation)

12. Honda CRX

13. Honda Accord Aerodeck

14. Honda Vamos

15. Honda Odyssey (First Generation)

16. Honda Civic Wagon (Shuttle)

17. Honda N600

18. Honda Passport (First Generation)

19. Honda City Turbo II (Bulldog)

20. Honda EV Plus

From Awkward to Admired

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