Friday, January 15, 2010

1975 Mazda Chantez GL "Kei Car"

"For the person who wants something different, look no farther." Directly from the ad, I think it could be the tagline to my website. The Chantez was produced for the JDM market from 1972-1977. It runs on a 360cc two-stroke engine that's oil-injected and produces around 35hp, and it has a 4-speed manual. Weighing in at just over a half a ton, this car is said to be good for 71 mph. I think it sounds like a blast! Pretty cool looking, too. I love the mirrors.

This car was imported about 6-7 years ago by a microcar collector, and the present owner bought it three years ago on eBay. The Kanji on the passenger door are apparently a remnant of this car's earlier days when it was associated with Kazu Auto Service in Hayama, Japan.

The seller describes this car as a good driver, but just a few jobs away from being perfect. It could use some new paint, a bit of reupholstery, and the speedo and AC don't work. I assume the seller believes that the engine, transmission, and suspension are fine, as there's no mention of their condition. With just about 30k showing and it's last two owners being enthusiasts/collectors, they're probably ok...

Find this little bugger here on eBay for $4,695 or best offer.

UPDATE: Price reduced to $4,295, still no sale, relisted here with price further reduced. Bidding stalled at $1,684, r.n.m.

UPDATE 2: This car was sold to a buyer in PA, who is a grey market enthusiast that also owns a Lancia Delta, Alfa Alfetta, and Peugeot 505.

6 comments:

  1. While I love Minis, Suzuki Whizzkids and Honda N600s, now that I know what a Mazda Chantez is, I'd rather have one than any of the other three. Too bad there isn't any room at the inn, and when there is, it will likely be reserved for a Mercedes-Benz Ponton, a Willys Jeepster or a 1947-53 Chevy or GMC C.O.E. truck.

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  2. This Mazda has been sold to a new owner also in Pennsylvania.

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  3. Is that a Trabant behind the mazda in the top photo ?

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  4. Yup that's a Trabant in that pic, I didn't notice it before. This guy has some interesting taste!

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  5. For such a small car, the Mazda Chantez is a nice looking car. I'd buy it in a heartbeat and use it for driving in town.

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