Autozam (Mazda) AZ-1

The Autozam AZ-1 currently trades at a median of US$25,750 in the US market, reflecting its status as an appreciating classic with solid long-term momentum. With only three sales tracked over the past year, price discovery remains challenging, though the overall dataset of five transactions suggests a nascent but consistent market presence.

Production was limited to 4,392 units during the AZ-1's run, positioning it as a genuinely scarce Japanese-market kei car that has only recently gained traction among US collectors. Its highly collectible rating reflects both rarity and the growing appeal of quirky, pocket-sized sports cars from the 1990s, though moderate desirability relative to its scarcity suggests it remains underdiscovered compared to mainstream classics.

Transaction data show these cars typically trade with moderate mileage, averaging 53,200 miles on the odometer—a reasonable level for a model that spent much of its life in Japan before finding American enthusiasts. This suggests examples entering the US market tend to be well-preserved but not garage-kept originals.

Liquidity remains thin, with zero active listings at present and only occasional sales activity tracking through the market. Buyers seeking an AZ-1 should expect patience and limited optionality; the absence of a robust secondary market means pricing power is minimal and timing matters considerably.

Base projections suggest moderate appreciation ahead, with the median rising to approximately US$28,407 over three years and US$29,320 over five years—representing gains of 10.3 and 13.9 percent respectively. This trajectory reflects steady if unspectacular growth typical of appreciating classics that lack speculative heat but benefit from finite supply and gradual collector awareness.