49k Original Miles: 1986 Honda Civic CRX

When Honda management boldly announced in the late 1960s that it intended to become a major player in automobile production, it is fair to say that few people could contain their mirth. Sure, its road cars to that point had been quirky and interesting, but none showed the signs of becoming high-volume sales successes. Underestimating the company proved a mistake because its first Civic found a ready market and received glowing praise from motoring journalists and buyers. This 1986 Civic CRX proves that Honda didn’t rest on its laurels following the initial success, because these cars were impressive performers in their prime. This beauty was its first owner’s pride and joy, but they parked it over twenty years ago with a mere 49,000 miles on the clock. It hasn’t fired a shot since. However, its overall condition and originality could make it an ideal revival project for the right person.

The seller confirms that this Honda is a one-owner classic that was that person’s cherished possession. They utilized the car regularly before parking it due to mobility issues. That day was over two decades ago, and the CRX hasn’t seen active service since. However, the storage environment must have been favorable, because the car hasn’t suffered unduly from the experience. The Riviera Blue paint shows age and has a few scratches and chips. Looking beyond that, the shine looks consistent, and the Honda might “pop” if treated to some intensive work with a high-quality polish. The bumper has a few scars and scrapes, but the ready availability of plastic paints could allow a competent person to address the problems relatively cheaply. With those two tasks tackled, the car would present acceptably as a driver-grade classic. The remaining trim and glass are in good order, and I see no evidence of developing rust issues that might sour the ownership experience.

Part of the secret of Honda’s success was its intense involvement in motorsport. As well as the “win on Sunday, sell on Monday” mentality that typically goes with such activities, the company utilized it as an exercise in excellence, with many of the lessons learned in competition translating into road car improvements. That is why it has managed to produce some of the best engines to emerge from any Japanese factory. This Civic features the company’s 1,488cc four that generated 76hp and 84 ft/lbs of torque in its prime. The power was fed to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, and while the power and torque figures sound modest, the curb weight of 1,814 lbs ensured performance was surprisingly good. The seller indicates this CRX has a genuine 49,000 miles on its odometer, and since the first owner maintained it meticulously with full Service Records, it seems the figure is verifiable. It requires revival, and after years of isolation, the process will probably include replacing many of its perishable components. However, the ready availability of parts should allow the winning bidder to tackle most of the tasks in a home workshop.

The greatest weakness of Hondas from the 1970s and 1980s was undoubtedly interior trim that was prone to deterioration. Seat upholstery was one of the main culprits, but the news is pretty positive for this Civic’s new owner. There is minor wear on the driver’s seat outer bolster, although it shows no evidence of developing holes. The rest of the interior is extremely tidy, with no crumbling plastic or evidence of abuse. The owner updated the speakers for the factory radio/cassette player, but there are no other additions. The interior condition is so nice that it needs nothing beyond a visit from a vacuum cleaner and a wipe-over with a damp cloth.

This 1986 Honda Civic CRX is a wonderful classic that deserves better than to spend its life in a dark garage. These cars are a joy to drive, and seeing this one returned to active duty by a new owner seems appropriate. The seller listed the Honda here on eBay in Forest Hills, New York. A solitary bid of $3,000 has pushed it beyond the reserve, suggesting its return is imminent. The modest exterior dimensions and excellent fuel economy make these classics ideal daily drivers, but are those thoughts enough to tempt you to drop a bid or two? I wish you luck if you do.