Hino

Introduced in April 1961, the first-generation Hino Contessa (PC-series) marked Hino Motors’ move away from pure licensed Renault production toward a more independent automotive identity. Replacing the Hino-built Renault 4CV, the Contessa retained a Renault-derived 893 cc rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout but developed into a more spacious and modern five-seat saloon, better suited to Japan’s expanding small-car market. Unlike many rear-engined rivals of the period, the Contessa used a water-cooled engine rather than air-cooling, contributing to smoother operation and refinement. Alongside the saloon, Hino introduced the elegant Contessa 900 Sprint Coupé, styled by Giovanni Michelotti. Lighter and more performance-focused, the Sprint featured a Nardi-tuned engine with Weber carburettors producing 45 hp and a claimed top speed of 140 km/h. It debuted at the 1962 Tokyo Motor Show and was later displayed in Turin and New York, highlighting Hino’s international ambitions. Between 1961 and mid-1964, a total of 47,299 PC-series Contessas were built.

The second-generation Contessa was introduced in September 1964 and marked a clear advance in size, refinement and performance over its predecessor. Although it retained the rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration, the new PD-series was noticeably longer and heavier. It was powered by a newly developed 1,251 cc four-cylinder engine producing 54 hp, allowing a top speed of approximately 130 km/h. The elegant styling was once again the work of Giovanni Michelotti, lending the car a distinctly European character. A dedicated coupé version followed in April 1965, adding a more sporting dimension to the range. Early Standard models were simply specified, without bumper overriders and equipped with single headlamps, but later updates introduced twin headlamps and more substantial bumper treatments. Production of the PD-series continued until 1967, bringing Hino’s independent passenger-car era to a close before the company’s closer integration with Toyota.

1964