1988 Honda Accord LX review from North America

Windshield cracked due to cold weather, 179K on the clock.

Slight problems attributed to carb (hard to start at times, etc), still continuing.

CV axles clicking, but not worn enough to bother with replacing yet. This has been an issue since I bought the car.

Car needs an alignment fairly badly as of 183K.

Slight valve ticking noise even after adjusting clearances; ignition timing shown to be at 24deg advanced (!) and still running decent.

Slight amount of rust on rear quarter panels.

Stereo antenna is broken completely off; even with that it gets decent in-town reception.

This car, summed up in one word... awesome. It might not have a lot of power behind it (although EFI models are fairly peppy), but it is nimble, feels decently quick, and rides extremely well.

I purchased this car from the original owner at 175,100 miles, and it had been a local car since its purchase. I paid a good deal more than market value, but it was well worth it.

The interior is well laid-out considering the age of the vehicle; a far cry from the curvy, organic dashes of today's cars and a little boxy, but ergonomics are pretty good, with exclusion of the stereo system and climate control unit. The seats are fairly comfortable, but not meant for sport driving, obviously. The seats are a little weathered, but no tears anywhere.

The AC and heat work very well, considering the age of the vehicle. Cabin comfort is pretty nice, and the overall climate control design (other than ergonomics) is very good, allowing for an inlet of fresh air even when running on recirc.

Amenities are great for a car of this age. Power windows, locks, and steering, AC, cruise control, power antenna, and a decent sound system, although aftermarket speakers help. The seats are comfortable enough for longer trips, and pretty supportive. Accords, sadly, don't feature cupholders unless you have (or yank from a junkyard) a set from the top of the line SEi (1989 only, and very rare). I'm a lucky owner of a set, and they help.

Handling is average; the car is fairly nimble, but body roll can be curbed and a little better cornering can be easily added with a set of swaybars from an LXi/SEi. I haven't done this yet, but am planning to fairly soon (after purchase of a MK3 Toyota Supra Turbo).

Reliability is absolutely top-notch. This Accord has never missed a beat, and I'm sure it'll be running well past 200K. Running costs are pretty cheap; other than a timing belt change (just in case), I've only needed gas, oil, and a little bit of power steering fluid. I've never owned a car that's been more dependable than this Honda.

In short, if you're looking for decently-priced, dependable transportation with a little bit of luxury and sportiness, get a Generation 3 Honda Accord (1986-1989). These cars are an excellent bargain if you can find one, and rest assured they'll be (if in decent shape before purchase) a valued vehicle for years to come. I will be keeping mine as long as I can, and I'm sure that'll be quite a while.