Since its launch over 40 years ago there have been many versions ranging from compact saloons to high performance models.
In the 1970s features like front-wheel drive, reliability and performance just didn’t go together.
The Civic showed the world that front-wheel drive cars could be fun and that Japanese cars were reliable and economical. The Civic has evolved over the years selling over 20 million units and making it is one of the most popular cars ever. It is one of the longest running nameplates in automotive history and shows no signs of slowing down.
The Civic was the car that truly established Honda as a major player.
Honda in the 1960’s was vastly different to what it is today. Their motorcycles were world beaters unlike the first cars which received a lukewarm reception. It’s hard to believe now but Honda actually considered leaving the car market place until the successful launch of the Civic in 1972.
The Civic’s reliability and fuel economy amidst rising fuel prices was an instant success. Honda’s CVCC technology helped make the car affordable as it didn’t need an expensive catalytic converter to meet post 1970s emissions standards.
The CRX Si, which was introduced in 1985 was the real powerhouse of the fleet. With its 91 horsepower, 1.5-litre engine and Honda kept the weight down by using parts like plastic bumpers. The powerful engine combined with a lightweight body made the Si was the fastest Civic yet. It could hit 60mph in under 9 seconds and was a corner monster thanks to its 185/60R14 high-performance tyres.
For those looking for fuel economy, Honda introduced the CRX to replace the 1.3-litre version. The CRX HF sported an eight-valve version of the 1.5-litre engine with a fuel consumption as low as many first generation hybrids.
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