1982 Honda Accord Hatchback review from Australia and New Zealand

Front wheel bearings at 303000, replaced CV joints at the same time which I bought at a wrecking yard for $40. Total cast was $390.

Replaced the clutch and bottom end seal at 284000 cost around $280.

Rear brake hoses at 293000 cost around $10 from a wrecking yard.

Brake master cylinder at 295000 cost $15 and replaced brake fluid at the same time.

Fuel pump quit at 299000 replaced with $30 electric pump.

Front seat had to be replaced as it was pretty old to begin with, $40.

I bought this car for $82 on an Internet auction site that is now defunct.

It is super economical and reliable. Gets around 620km from a full tank of petrol just driving around in regular traffic. Will get around 850km on the freeway. And it will run on unleaded without any modifications to the cylinder head. I was informed of this by a cylinder head mechanic who I asked to quote on the cost of converting the head to use unleaded petrol. So I save even more money.

I tried it on high octane unleaded and it loved it. I just use regular unleaded which performs about as well as Lead Replacement Super.

The hatch back is great for carrying just about anything in. I have even carried 4 sheets of 18mm craft-wood planks in the back which just slide in through the hatch space.

Will fit 5 people plus equipment and still take off quite well.

Air-con works, but it never blows cool. More to do with the heater switch not going to completely cool when moved across.

I can't say enough about how much fun this car is to drive. With a good set of rubber and good front shocks, this car can zip around and give a feeling of speed few others can.

On the freeway it will drive at the speed limit with ease. And will run at 110km for 500km without missing a beat. On a trip from Sydney to Canberra it just sat on the speed limit for 3 1/2 hours and the temp meter didn't even move from its usual spot.

As it is non computer controlled, it can be easily fixed by a handy person with easily accessible tools.

I just love this car and consider the money spent on keeping it running is a small price to pay for such a reliable and fun car.