If you love classic cars, you probably appreciate Honda’s unique history. This list looks at 14 of the best Honda classic cars of all time, celebrating models that defined eras and showcased brilliant engineering.
These aren’t just old cars; they are milestones. From tiny city cars to legendary sports cars, Honda’s classics offer something for every enthusiast. They prove that innovation and driving fun can come in many forms.
14 Of The Best Honda Classic Cars Of All Time
Let’s take a closer look at these iconic vehicles. Each one earned its place here through design, performance, or cultural impact.
1. Honda S600 (1964-1966)
The S600 was Honda’s first production sports car. It featured a high-revving 606cc engine that could hit 9,500 rpm.
Key features include:
- Independent four-wheel suspension, rare for small cars then.
- A chain-drive system to the rear wheels.
- Convertible and fastback coupe body styles.
It showed the world that Honda was serious about performance. The S600’s engineering set the tone for future sports models.
2. Honda N600 (1967-1972)
This was the car that introduced America to Honda. The tiny N600 was a practical city car with a surprising 598cc engine.
It was crucial because:
- It proved small cars could be reliable and economical.
- Its front-wheel-drive layout was advanced for its size.
- It built the reputation that led to the Civic.
Without the N600’s success, Honda’s later history might have been different.
3. Honda Civic (First Generation, 1972-1979)
The original Civic solved the big problems of the 1970s. It offered great fuel economy and low emissions with its CVCC engine.
Why it’s a classic:
- Its innovative CVCC technology met emissions rules without a catalytic converter.
- It offered amazing practicality in a small, affordable package.
- The Civic’s success made Honda a major global automaker.
It redefined what a compact car could be.
4. Honda Accord (First Generation, 1976-1981)
The first Accord was a slightly larger, more refined sibling to the Civic. It quickly became a benchmark for reliability and quality.
Its classic status comes from:
- Introducing features like a tachometer and remote trunk release as standard.
- Being the first Japanese car built in the United States (in 1982).
- Setting new standards for fit and finish in its class.
The Accord showed Honda could build a world-class family car.
5. Honda Prelude (First Generation, 1978-1982)
The Prelude was Honda’s stylish front-wheel-drive coupe. It combined sporty looks with Civic-based mechanicals.
Highlights include:
- A standard sunroof, which was a novel feature at the time.
- Precise steering and a slick manual transmission.
- Introducing the “Prelude” name for Honda’s sporty coupe line.
It offered a affordable taste of sports coupe motoring.
6. Honda City (First Generation, 1981-1986)
The Honda City was a revolutionary subcompact. It was famous for its tall, space-efficient design and the optional “Motocompo” folding scooter.
What makes it special:
- Its “Tall Boy” design maximized interior room in a tiny footprint.
- The Motocompo scooter fit perfectly in the trunk, a genius concept.
- It had a peppy 1.2-liter engine for its class.
It was a clever, quirky icon of 1980s Japanese design.
7. Honda CR-X (First Generation, 1983-1987)
The CR-X was a lightweight, three-door hatchback built for fun. It wasn’t a pure sports car, but a fuel-efficient “sporty commuter.”
Reasons for its fame:
- Excellent fuel economy from its 1.3L or 1.5L engines.
- A sharp, responsive chassis that loved corners.
- A unique two-seat design (in most markets) focused on the driver.
It made economical driving an absolute joy.
8. Honda Integra (First Generation, 1985-1989)
The Integra launched Honda’s premium performance line. It featured the first DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder engine from Honda.
Key points:
- Its advanced “DOHC” engine provided smooth, high-revving power.
- It offered luxury and sportiness at a relatively accessible price.
- The design was sleek and modern for the mid-80s.
The Integra laid the groundwork for the legendary Type R models later on.
9. Honda NSX (First Generation, 1990-2005)
The NSX was a groundbreaking supercar. It combined F1-inspired technology with Honda’s renowned reliability.
Why it shocked the world:
- An all-aluminum body and chassis for light weight.
- A mid-mounted, 270-hp V6 engine with VTEC.
- It was developed with input from F1 champion Ayrton Senna.
It proved a supercar could be easy to drive every day and never break down. Its a true masterpiece.
10. Honda Civic Type R (EK9, 1997-2000)
The first Civic Type R took the humble hatch to a new level. Based on the sixth-generation Civic, it was a focused, lightweight performance machine.
What defined it:
- A high-strung 1.6L VTEC engine producing 182 hp.
- A stripped-out interior with Recaro seats and a red carpet.
- A stiffened chassis and helical limited-slip differential.
It created the “hot hatch” legend for Honda and is still sought after today.
11. Honda S2000 (1999-2009)
The S2000 was a pure, back-to-basics roadster. It was built to celebrate Honda’s 50th anniversary.
Its iconic features:
- An incredible 9,000-rpm redline from its 2.0L F20C engine.
- A perfect 50/50 weight balance for neutral handling.
- A classic, driver-focused interior with a digital tachometer.
It remains one of the greatest driver’s cars ever made, with no compromises.
12. Honda Integra Type R (DC2, 1995-2001)
Many consider the DC2 Integra Type R the best front-wheel-drive car ever made. It was a homologation special built for racing.
Why enthusiasts love it:
- A 1.8L VTEC engine that revved to 8,400 rpm.
- Extensive use of lightweight materials and chassis welding.
- Razor-sharp steering and a legendary helical limited-slip diff.
Its driver engagement and feedback are almost unmatched.
13. Honda Beat (1991-1996)
The Beat was a tiny, mid-engine roadster built for Japan’s “kei car” class. It was the last car approved by Soichiro Honda himself.
Its charm lies in:
- A mid-mounted 656cc three-cylinder engine with a 8,500-rpm redline.
- Incredibly lightweight and nimble handling.
- A pure, simple, and fun open-top driving experience.
It’s a miniature masterpiece of packaging and fun.
14. Honda Acty Truck (1977-2021)
While a commercial vehicle, the Acty Truck earned classic status through its longevity and cult following. This tiny pickup was incredibly useful and reliable.
Reasons for its inclusion:
- Its decades-long production run is a testament to its design.
- It became a popular base for mini-trucks and campers.
- Its simple, rugged design and 4WD option made it surprisingly capable.
It represents Honda’s genius for practical, durable engineering.
What Makes a Honda Classic Special?
Honda classics share a few key traits. They are not just about raw power.
Common threads include:
- High-Revving Engines: Many feature VTEC or earlier tech that loves high rpm.
- Innovative Engineering: From CVCC to aluminum chassis, Honda took risks.
- Driver Focus: Even economy cars were designed to be engaging to drive.
- Reliability: Unlike many classics, these cars were built to last, which is why so many survive.
These qualities make owning and driving a Honda classic a unique experience.
Tips for Finding and Owning a Classic Honda
Interested in buying one? Here are some practical steps.
Step 1: Do Your Research.
- Join online forums and owner’s clubs for your desired model.
- Learn about common rust areas and mechanical issues.
- Understand what parts are easy to find and which are not.
Step 2: Inspect Thoroughly.
- Rust is the biggest enemy. Check wheel arches, door sills, and floor pans.
- For high-performance models, verify engine condition and service history.
- Listen for unusual noises from the engine, transmission, and suspension.
Step 3: Budget for Maintenance.
- Factor in immediate servicing needs like timing belts and fluid changes.
- Set aside funds for unexpected repairs, even on reliable Hondas.
- Consider insurance and storage costs if it won’t be a daily driver.
Patience is key to finding a good example. Don’t rush your purchase.
FAQ About Honda Classic Cars
What is the most sought-after classic Honda?
The first-generation NSX is arguably the most sought-after. Followed closely by the S2000 and the Integra Type R (DC2). Their values have risen significantly in recent years.
Are classic Hondas reliable to drive regularly?
Yes, compared to many classics from the same era, Hondas are very reliable. Their simple engineering and robust build quality mean that a well-maintained example can be used regularly. Parts for many models are also still plentiful.
Which classic Honda is the most affordable to get into?
Earlier models like the Civic (1st-3rd gen) or Accord (1st-3rd gen) can still be found at reasonable prices. The CR-X and Prelude are becoming more expensive, but non-sporty versions can be affordable. The key is to look for solid, unmodified cars.
What does VTEC mean in classic Hondas?
VTEC stands for Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control. It’s a system that changes how the engine’s valves operate at high rpm, providing a boost in power. The “VTEC kick” is a famous sensation in models from the late 80s onward.
Why are 1990s Hondas so popular now?
90s Hondas like the Civic Type R, Integra Type R, and NSX represent a peak of analog, driver-focused engineering. They are also the childhood dream cars for many who are now adults with buying power. Their simplicity and purity are highly valued today.
From the tiny S600 to the groundbreaking NSX, Honda’s classic cars tell a story of innovation and a relentless focus on the driver. These 14 of the best Honda classic cars of all time each carved there own path in automotive history. They offer a unique blend of engineering brilliance, driving joy, and accessible ownership that few other brands can match. Whether you’re a collector or just an admirer, these timeless machines deserve there place in the spotlight.