The late 1980s and early 1990s are known as the golden age of Japanese cars, when Japanese cars showed a super high level of design and performance. Honda, in particular, has carved out its own niche in different market segments.
At that time, Honda built a supercar NSX based on the Formula 1 concept, which used a rare high-stiffness lightweight all-aluminum body, mid-rear-drive 3.0-displacement V6 engine, to achieve the perfect balance between high horsepower and high reliability.
Power also applied a lot of advanced technology, such as 16 valve design (4 valves per cylinder), the North American version in 1.8L, 2.0L engine on the basis of the addition of a new design of 2.2L all-aluminum electronic fuel injection engine, the maximum power of 147 horsepower, the maximum torque 198N·m, more abundant power, the average fuel consumption of only about 10L.
For younger consumers, Honda also introduced the fourth-generation Civic around that time, especially the sportier Si model, which was considered one of the best compact cars on the market at the time.
In addition, in order to seize more market share, Honda decided to shorten the 8-inch wheelbase and improve the engine performance, and introduced a new product – CRX.
Like the original Volkswagen GTI or the first-generation Toyota MR2, the CRX is for consumers who have less budget and are looking for fun to drive.
Many people have their own fond memories of this Honda car, and because of this, it has become a popular collectible in the Hyundai camp.
Many collectors say the car is more fun to drive than many expensive European sports cars.
The first generation CRX was very focused on everyday use and fuel economy, while the second generation of the car embodies many of the essence of Honda.
The suspension used double fork arms (like the first-generation NSX) and weighed just over 2,000 pounds (908Kg). The Si model also comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with a factory maximum of 108 horsepower.
The compact size and light body, coupled with excellent vision, make this generation of CRX driving to many people praise.
Precise engine steering, a cab-full of buttons without any touchscreen interference, well-fitted seats and a satisfying five-speed manual transmission combine to make this car legendary.
1991 was the last year of production for the CRX, and although Honda followed with the Del Sol and CRZ, none of these cars returned to its glory.
Times have changed, and Honda might not be able to build something as simple and practical as the CRX today. Once we often see it on the streets of foreign countries, and even there are several cars in China. But over time, they all disappeared.
Now, if you want to go back in time and experience the Honda of the golden age, you can look at this car in the photo.
The car was purchased at Basney Honda in Mishawaka, Indiana, and was owned by one owner until 2023, when it was acquired by the current car dealership.
Surprisingly, the CRX Si has only driven 23,000 miles (about 37,000 kilometers) so far, and it comes with a lot of paper documentation including original window stickers, purchase documents, original factory instructions, and after-sales service records.
Through the window sticker, we can see that the car’s original total price was $11,390 (about 80,000 yuan). Now, after 13 bids, the car finally sold for $41,277 (about 290,000 yuan).
