Suzuki - Fronte 500 Sting Ray Face - 1973

GENERAL

Offered for auction is an exceptionally rare 1973 Suzuki Fronte 500, a rare fully restored original "Sting Ray Face" example and one of the most distinctive Japanese kei cars of the early seventies.

Historically, while domestic Japanese market Fronte models were strictly limited to 360cc to comply with taxation laws, Suzuki produced this specialized export-only version, known factory-wide as the LC50 series. First introduced globally to expand the brand's international footprint, the Fronte 500 featured an enlarged 475cc displacement to better suit overseas driving speeds and road conditions. This particular vehicle adds further interest and uniqueness as a right-hand-drive model that was first immatriculated in Mozambique before being imported to Portugal in November 1975. The current owner has possessed the car for more than 5 years, ensuring it was correctly maintained and keeping it completely free of any accidents. This represents a truly unique opportunity to acquire one of the most charming, increasingly collectible, and reliable Japanese micro cars presented in absolutely original and usable condition.

BODYWORK & PAINT
The previous owner made a comprehensive restoring of the car so it could be used as the wedding car of her daughter. The vehicle is presented in a very good condition overall. The only noteworthy visual imperfections deserving mention are small cracks in the plastic covers of the rear lights, which have been successfully repaired and bonded, alongside some chromed parts that show subtle traces of time.

TECHNICAL
The car is powered by its original 475cc, 3-cylinder, 3-carburetor, two-stroke engine. It remains absolutely authentic, having been carefully restored while fully preserving its originality. The vehicle is fully operational, roadworthy, and has proven its reliability by successfully participating in a challenging micro cars event. During this rally, it covered more than 400 kilometers of highway transit sections driving between official event stages at cruising speeds above 90 km/h, followed by an additional 150-kilometer itinerary on small, difficult country roads under extreme hot weather without any problems.

The mechanical components are highly refreshed, featuring a comprehensive mechanical overhaul carried out just recently, a brand new battery, and a brand new full set of Yokohama tires. The only technical point deserving mention is the inefficient functioning of the original autolub oil injection pump; because of this, it is necessary for the operator to manually add two-stroke oil directly to the fuel at a ratio of 0.2 liters per 10 liters of petrol.

INTERIOR
The car is original and complete in every detail inside the cabin. This exceptional level of preservation includes the factory floor mats, the original wheel trims, and even the original factory stickers regarding the functioning of the car. The car also still retains its complete set of factory tools.

DOCUMENTS
The vehicle comes with its original Owner’s Manual. It has been officially certified as a Historic Vehicle without any negative observations by ACP Clássicos (Automóvel Club de Portugal), and this current official certification remains valid until June 2030.

COLLECTION
The car is located in Lisbon, Portugal, where the buyer can arrange for local pickup.

OTHER INFORMATION
This vehicle is highly operational and ready to be enjoyed by its next owner, combining rare export-market specifications with a well-documented history and verified club certification.