There were two mainstream models of the Beat (the PP1–100 and the PP1–110) and a couple of limited edition versions. Variations on the first model were just cosmetic updates. Only the second model had any real mechanical differences. All cars were offered with the option of a driver-side
airbag. The car was marketed by Honda as "Midship Amusement" and was sold exclusively in Japan, at
Honda Primo dealership sales channels. In typical Honda fashion, the Beat's engine did not utilize a
turbocharger or
supercharger. The engine was modified with the MTREC (Multi Throttle Responsive Engine Control) system, with individual throttle bodies for each of the three cylinders, to produce at 8,100 rpm with an electronically-limited top speed of 135 km/h (84 mph). Only a 5-speed
manual transmission was available. The MTREC design would filter down to the 1993
Honda Today kei car. The Beat was the first kei car to feature disc brakes on all four wheels. The Beat was part of a wave of kei car-sized sports cars in the early 1990s; its competitors included the
Suzuki Cappuccino and Mazda's
Autozam AZ-1. Together they anticipated the arrival of the
Smart Roadster over a decade later, while Japan would not see a new model of the genre until the 2002
Daihatsu Copen. On May 9, 2010, a parade was held in the
Twin Ring Motegi circuit as a part of an annual Beat owners meeting. 569 Honda Beats participated in the parade, which is certified by
Guinness World Records as the largest parade of Honda cars. The record was shown in the 2011 edition of Guinness World Records. ==Versions==