1990 Honda Civic GL 1.4 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Beautifully fast bargain

Faults:

Needed a new exhaust system, new brake pads and a new battery, - all just standard things that need replacing every now and then. Fitting of new exhaust system allowed me to make it better as well!

General Comments:

This car looks fantastic and is a great bargain.

The engine revs up to 6750 rpm before the red line kicks in so you can get a lot out of each gear. I was suprised when I first drove the car as I have driven many 1.4s before, but this can do 0-60 in 9.5 seconds which is roughly the same as the new mini cooper, (my friend has one and believe me we have tested this out!). Despite only kicking out 90bhp with a displacement of 1396cc the lack of weight makes up for it giving the car a very decent power to weight ratio. I have done over 125mph in this car and have to say its the best car I have owned to date.

The ride is made to feel even better as the seating position is similar to an elise with the driver pretty much lying down in the seat, although this can get uncomfortable in long journeys as the seat has a lack of lumbar support - but this can easily be sorted.

The reliability is brilliant, the only time it hasn't started was because of a dead battery which all need replacing now and again.

The grip is also good, but not as good as it can be. The car comes standard with 13 inch wheels which don't give the maximum grip you want when you drive the car. The wheels are the only point of contact with the road so it always worth having a good set of tires and wheels. I have upgraded mine to 15inch and the thing flys round corners.

Another good thing is the space inside the car. It looks small, but is deceptively huge inside. The boot is huge and the legroom for the rear passengers is very good.

Overall a brilliant, fast, reliable bargain and better than its rivals!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th July, 2003

1990 Honda Civic Si from North America

Summary:

Extreme reliability and economy with a little powerful something under the hood

Faults:

There have been no serious problems with my 1990 Honda Civic Hatchback. In fact the only troublesome problem I have had with the car is some minor rusting. This is especially the case with the rocker panels. The previous owners had the car rust-protected and therefore, has kept this problem at bay. I also had a clicking noise in the axle that turned out to be a worn CV joint. This is common maintenance for older cars. Also having a problem with a minor water leak near the rear tail lights when it rains.

General Comments:

The car is responsive (especially for a 13 yr-old car.

The gas mileage is excellent, which is great considering recent fuel price increases.

The car retains a modern look despite its age. In other-words, it fits in well with its newer counterparts.

The reliability of this Honda product has been reinforced once again.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st April, 2003

21st Jun 2003, 09:36

I have the same leak problem in my tail-lights, except mine isn't minor - it makes them look like aquariums, without the fish... but I fixed it with some liquid rubber sealant. What bugs me now is rust deposits on the front brake rotors (top), it makes for very noisy braking. Otherwise the car is a fine one, like Steven said, still trendy in spite of the age, great engine, handling is fun.

1990 Honda Civic DX 1.5L from North America

Summary:

Perfect for college kids!

Faults:

The car kept stalling out on me while I was driving, just random stalls here and there. It was very aggravating because I go to school and work also, as I put 360+ miles on it a week. Turned out to be distributor cap gone haywire. Just fixed, we will see what will happen.

General Comments:

Great gas mileage.

5 speed manual creates a "missile" effect.

Incredible city traffic capabilities.

Hatchback gives lots and lots of room.

Room in back for 3 adults to sit comfortably.

Lacks high end horsepower.

Overall, if this sucker runs at all, it runs well. Reliable car!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 7th December, 2002

1st Jan 2004, 22:14

My 1990 Honda DX has a little over 178,000 miles on it and runs like a top. It still has the original clutch. I used to live in the Midwest, so it has some salt-related rust. I love this little car. It's not slick or ostentatious, but it gets me where I need to go with great gas mileage and easy parking. After nearly 14 years, it's still fun to drive.

31st Dec 2004, 19:00

My 1990 Honda Civic dx has just under 79860 miles on her and shes running fine.