For the Honda enthusiast it may be hard to believe that the last CR-X rolled off the production line around 25 years ago ending a brief 8 year manufacturing period. Of course it was in fact a typical Civic with what some would call a fastback in order to give it a sporty look that was reminiscent of the 1980’s. In order to represent each worldwide market the model was known as the CRX (without the dash) in the USA and was mainly seen as a budget 2Dr, 2 seater sports car. In Europe however the spec and size of vehicle was seen as more up market and was sold with 2 rear seats also.
Through the years there were 3 versions of the CR-X including the targa topped version that appeared in 1992, but was renamed Civic Del Sol soon after, so not always included within its history.
Version 1 and 2 had the instantly recognisable slopping back with the wedge shaped front. The SiR model on the MK2 had this clever square window underneath its rear wing, so give good aerodynamics without losing rear view when reversing.
Honda Engine Options
Though all the years, the engine were all petrol and for the USA market relatively small in size. Starting with 1.5ltr with a small 65 horse power up to the 1.6 litre, that could deliver 150hp. This meant fuel economy was good for something with good handling and sporty acceleration. There are motor sport clubs who have CR-X competitions as the body to weight ratio make this a good competitive car in certain competitions.
Not That Practical
Don’t expect to carry much luggage in any model, especially 2+2 version where the rear seats are virtually in the boot of the car. Of course the base of the car was centred around the Honda Civic, so reliability was pretty much assured and where practicality was not important the Honda CR-X became an option
The Classic Club
There is a clear enthusiast club scene out there and un-restored versions are becoming hard to find, not that many rusted into oblivion anyway. But with some models well over 30 years old now, you can forgive some cars looking a bit down at heel and tired. These are being snapped up more and more now, as some cars from the 80’s can now fashionably be seen as a classic and worth the investment to bring back to life.
Who knows if these adapted Civics will end up being the ultimate Classic Car in years to come. What is likely to be true though, is that many will survive an be around for future generations.