Hi from the UK & what about a z600 Honda, would it suit me?

[greguk1231]

Hi all,
I'm an experienced mechanic who doesn't mind engine transplants and
rebuilds/customising vehicles.
I'm interested in a pre-1973 microcar (as they are free from yearly
tax in the UK) which can do the following:
1) be as small and light as possible, while fitting 4 adults. Front
seats to fit 6'4 tall person, rear seats to fit 5'10 person. I can
lengthen the body 6" if a suitable car is appropriate but just
doesn't have the rear legroom - no problem.
2) Mechanicals don't matter as I'll likely be fitting a modern small
diesel engine and automatic transmission.
3) it has to have two wheels on the front for handling (I quite like
or would consider modifying to single rear wheel, but must have two
front wheels)
4) it's a bit of a fuel economy project therefore aerodynamic
potential (the basic outline of the shell, or the ease at which I can
make it aerodynamic) is important, as is frontal area (smaller the
better) and weight (lower the better).
So far I have been looking at the Honda z600 and n600 which seem like
they are available for restoration fairly cheap and are proper 4
seaters. I particulaly like the style of the z600. The Mazda Carol
also has potential, the 4 door version as it could be made into a
sloping room 'kamm back' estate and looks like it would seat 4 well.
Can anyone think of a better car than the little Hondas (if so which
one) for me to base the project on? Aerodynamic efficiency is made
better with a longer car, so I'm not at all adversed to stretching
one, the small frontal area is a big bonus and something as small as
6 inches would make for good rear legroom. Being able to fold the
rear seats to get good luggage room would also be good, but I'd live
with a boot.
The car would be used for running around and weekend runs out and
would be powered by around 800cc diesel engine of between 25 and
100hp depending on varient/turbo etc.
Looking forward to suggestions,
Greg.
Regards, Greg.
UK Mechanic specialising in VW TDi & vegoil conversions, interested
in microcar project (vegoil powered, naturally!)