1989 Honda Civic Si review from North America
"Great reliability, performance, and built quality economical car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Replaced the radiator & A/C fan motor at around 120,000 miles.
Replaced the head gasket at around 130,000 miles.
General comments?
This is a great to have if you are looking for something economical & weekend circuit or auto-cross enthusiast. The built quality of this car is excellent especially for the price you pay.
I had mine for two years before it got stolen. I had a great time & a blast owning this car especially when I took it to a local circuit on a weekend to do some time trialling.
The car is pretty much great in its class for its era even in stock form. Handling of this car is absolutely amazing even when the suspension was still bone stock. Mine was modified to compete in local auto-cross competition. This is a car that I can have fun in a circuit without having it tow to there.
Great on gas! Even after some engine modifications, this car still gave me 30mpg.
I was really surprised on how roomy the cabin was. As always, it has great Honda's low driving position just like a sports car.
Overall, if you are on a budget looking for a competitive car to have fun on the weekend for circuit racing & auto-crossing or even if you are just looking for a fun low cost used car, this is the car for you. You will not be disappointed.
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![]() ![]() | Honda has got to be kicking themselves for building such an excellent car |
![]() ![]() | Cheap, nippy, easy to drive and handle |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 1995 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 1997 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 SOHC Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 105000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 145000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Tempo |
| Date of Entry | 25th January, 2005 |



