1987 Honda CRX Si review from North America
"Light, quick and nimble"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The synchro for the second gear is worn causing grinding while shifting into second gear.
There is rust starting to show around the hatch area.
General comments?
This car has a very distinct power-band. The 1.5 liter engine doesn't make any real power until the tachometer hits 3000rpm. The engine accelerates incredibly all the way to its 6500rpm red line. It seems as if the top end power is endless. It could use a bit more low end grunt, but thats understandable with such a small 4 cylinder engine.
The interior of the car is a bit cramped and there seems to be minimal headroom. I am 6'4" and fit in the car adequately, but headroom is a bit limited.
The car has enough space to carry two passengers and a few groceries, but being what it is, a compact sports car, that's understandable.
The car handles well, but does tend to roll under hard cornering. Installing a thicker anti roll bar from a 86 Civic Wagon would solve this problem.
This car looks excellent and in my opinion, is the best affordable compact sports car Honda has ever made. Its fast and lightweight. Steeping on the throttle gives almost instant acceleration as the tachometer sweeps past 3000rpm.
Recommended reviews
| A cheap, reliable car that is fun to drive |
| FUN! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1987 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5L Fuel Injected Manual |
| Performance marks | 9 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 130000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 140000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 30th January, 2003 |