Before the 2008 Global Financial Crisis, Honda enjoyed a well-earned reputation for producing adventurous mainstream passenger cars. However, the company now typically adopts a more conservative approach, with vehicle styling more in keeping with general market expectations. That wasn’t the case with its CRX, a car that featured distinctive looks and a wonderful high tail. This 1987 example is a good one, having only clocked 46,000 miles throughout its life. Its presentation is above average, and it would be equally comfortable as a daily driver or a weekend cruiser. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Honda listed here on eBay in Acton, California. The seller set their BIN at $12,500 with the option to make an offer.

Honda introduced the CRX in late 1983. By combining a two-seat hatchback bodyshell with the Civic’s mechanical components, it created a car with sporting potential and excellent fuel economy. That was a winning formula, with the badge enjoying healthy global sales until its successor arrived at the end of 1987. This final year example is a gem, ordered by its first owner in Polar White. The listing suggests it has spent most of its life in its current location, which helps explain its rust-free status. The paint is in good condition, with any imperfections too minor to justify the cost of a restoration. The plastic has withstood the Californian sun extremely well, and the damage-prone wheel covers are excellent. The glass is clear, and the minor badges are in good order.

Okay, it is fair to say that this Honda is unlikely to terrorize the opposition at the local drag strip. The engine bay houses a sweet 1,488cc four-cylinder engine producing a factory-quoted 76hp and 84 ft/lbs of torque. The sticking point for those seeking an exhilarating driving experience is the transmission: the first owner selected the four-speed automatic. The five-speed manual was better-suited to this engine, which produces its maximum power and torque relatively high in the rev range. The seller is the car’s third owner, and it has a known history that should make verifying the odometer reading pretty easy. They state that the CRX runs and drives as nicely as it did in 1987, a claim that I find readily believable.

You must look long and hard to find anything inside this CRX deserving criticism. The seller identifies a couple of minor cigarette burns on the driver’s seat as the only issues. Otherwise, the Blue cloth trim looks exceptional for its age. Cloth is one aspect of Hondas from this era that is prone to wear and deterioration, but this car’s condition further supports the mileage claim. And it isn’t going to get worse, because the seller has equipped the inside of this classic with sheepskin slipcovers, front floor mats, and a mat protecting the rear cargo area. This CRX may not feature air conditioning, but the AM/FM stereo radio will relieve boredom on long journeys.

Values for the 1987 Honda CRX have recently climbed significantly faster than the market average as buyers recognize how wonderful these little cars are to drive. The sticking point with this car is its automatic transmission, which will blunt its performance. However, that would make it ideal for tackling heavy city traffic, while cruising at freeway speeds shouldn’t pose a challenge. This is not the first time the seller has listed this 1987 CRX. I discovered an auction for this classic that failed to sell when bidding stalled at $5,250. Interestingly, the View and Watch List tallies looks very healthy this time, suggesting the seller might taste success. Do you think they will achieve their BIN, or will compromise be the order of the day?