Faults:

Replaced shock absorbers (156,000).

New power steering rack (154,000).

New water pump (150,000).

New exhaust system (catalytic converter back) (150,000).

Re-built alternator (performed on the car with a Honda kit) (150,000).

New drive belts (150,000).

Converted OEM A/C system from R-12 to R134a (80,000).

New stereo speakers (140,000).

Painted the car (130,000).

New radiator (140,000).

General Comments:

What can I say, other than it's a Honda, which means excellent build quality that doesn't quit. At 157,400+ miles, it's just breaking-in.

The car rides like it's brand-new, handles extremely well, has excellent vision all-around, and looks like it just rolled out of the showroom after a complete re-paint in 2011 (clear coat had worn out).

By 21st century standards, of course, it's decidedly old-tech in terms of somewhat higher cabin noise levels at highway speeds, ancient, uncomplicated OEM radio with tape deck and limited range, no airbags, and a complete lack of cup holders, but who cares? The car is extremely pleasant to drive, is frugal on gas (38 MPG at highway speeds without the A/C), roomy for 4 (5 in a pinch), has tons of front-seat legroom, a spacious, flat trunk, all power accessories, and is as durable as a piece of boiler iron. It always starts (OEM starter motor) no matter what the weather, and after reaching normal operating temperature, it can keep up with anything on the road once it gets going.

As for things I would improve, the front disc/rear drum brake set-up could use more boost, the small OEM 185 x 70 tires and 13" wheels provide safe but minimal bite, the 96-HP carbureted engine has to work hard to move the car from a standing start or climb steep hills with a full passenger/cargo load onboard, and the engine's notorious 2-bbl. carburetor has more vacuum lines than Carter's got pills, plus its high and low idle speeds are so difficult to adjust that even experienced Honda techs warn you to "leave it alone unless it stops running". My Dad (from whom I inherited the car) should have spent the extra bucks and ordered the fuel-injected engine, but the carb version is fine so long as you understand its limitations and drive within them, like any car.

I've been rebuilding the car component by component as required, but have spent so little money on it over the last eight years that it owes me nothing compared to the cost of replacing it. It's a fine around-town vehicle that occasionally gets to stretch its legs on the interstate at 75 mph without fuss. I love the fact that people make offers on it all the time, but no sale. This is a keeper, and I am very proud to own a machine that seems to defy time itself.

Faults:

Head gasket failure at 264,000 (right before I owned it). The previous owner is a mechanic, and replaced the head gasket as well as installed new valves and a new cam while he had it disassembled. Additionally, he went ahead and installed a new timing belt, water pump, distributor, plugs/wires/coil. He also had to replace a failed fuel pump and master cylinder.

The front passenger door handle is broken on the outside, but it shouldn't be too hard to fix.

General Comments:

I paid $800.00 for this car and am really impressed. These 3rd gen Accords have always been impressive to me. Steering is effortless and tight, pop up headlights are just cool, and the quality of materials is impressive. After 25 years, the interior and exterior still look very good.

The original R12 air conditioning system still blows out ice cold air, and all of the interior switches etc. all still work.

The paint on the top is faded, but I plan to get it repainted soon. $800.00 for the car and 30+ MPG means a very inexpensive, comfortable car to drive 80 miles per day. I am going to keep restoring it one part at a time. It's vintage!