1988 Honda Civic Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
Let the drum rolls begin. Power and looks are at the forefront of generation four of the Honda Civic, and a wide variety of engines come...
Let the drum rolls begin. Power and looks are at the forefront of generation four of the Honda Civic, and a wide variety of engines come into play. All models except for the CRX had a longer wheel base and all had more glass and a lower hood line added to looks, almost making the Civic a stylish ride.
It is 2006 as this is written, but even back then, the '88 Honda Civic was technically advanced. Its top CRX and hatchback models incorporated VTEC technology (more about this in a second); most all had a double wishbone suspension in both the front and rear; and each cylinder had 4 valves.
Still it was VTEC that had tongues wagging. VTEC stands for variable timing and lift, electronically controlled and simply means that engine speed controls the amount that the intake/exhaust valves are opened to enhance performance.
But even those Civics that didn't rate VTEC had changes. The wagon, DX sedan and hatchback, and new LX sedan all boasted a 1.5-liter engine with 16-valves, 16-valve producing greater horsepower. Even the base hatchback had a version of the same engine, just a bit lower in hp. And, the CRX got kicked up, too with a 16 valve, 1.6 liter engine.
The '88 Civic came in several models: a hatchback, sedan, wagon, and the ultra-cool 3-door CRX.
Most drivers, of any '88 Civic model, love it and some even suggest, "if it's good new, it's even better used."
What owners say
"Owners of the 1988 Honda Civic generally express a lot of enthusiasm for this classic car. They appreciate its reliability, impressive handling, and fuel economy, often noting how it continues to perform well even after many years. Many drivers highlighted the car's fun driving experience and smooth acceleration. On the downside, some mentioned that its size might be a bit small for certain preferences, and it can be challenging to find one that has been well maintained due to its age."
I lovee this car. It was perfectly well maintained when I bought it. It was fast, it handled really well, and it looked awesome with 16" z racing rims.
July 4, 2008The 4th generation Honda Civic is a very popular car, even though it´s over 20 years old. One of the main reasons for it´s popularity may be that it has the exaxt same chassis and suspension as the newer Civics. The ED, EF, EG and EK basically share 99% of the same components when it comes to suspension. The 4th Gen (ED for the european and american market cars, and EF for japanese domestic market cars + all the VTEC models) is by far the lightest of the bunch, so when given modern day suspension and brake components it´s a very nicely handling car
March 20, 2008I think that if the car is maintained with regular oil changes and a tune up and a good battery it'll be reliable! Mine needs some minor work done to it but I think I can pull another 100,000 miles out of it. I have to give it to Honda they make a good car!
September 14, 2007What owners say
I lovee this car. It was perfectly well maintained when I bought it. It was fast, it handled really well, and it looked awesome with 16" z racing rims.
July 4, 2008The 4th generation Honda Civic is a very popular car, even though it´s over 20 years old. One of the main reasons for it´s popularity may be that it has the exaxt same chassis and suspension as the newer Civics. The ED, EF, EG and EK basically share 99% of the same components when it comes to suspension. The 4th Gen (ED for the european and american market cars, and EF for japanese domestic market cars + all the VTEC models) is by far the lightest of the bunch, so when given modern day suspension and brake components it´s a very nicely handling car
March 20, 2008I think that if the car is maintained with regular oil changes and a tune up and a good battery it'll be reliable! Mine needs some minor work done to it but I think I can pull another 100,000 miles out of it. I have to give it to Honda they make a good car!
September 14, 2007First Honda I have ever owned or driven. Amazing little car for its age. 272000kms and the darn thing still runs like a top. Fun car to drive. Solid on turns. Too bad the engine haqs just about maxed out on kms. May just have it rebuilt. Fourth generation Civics (1988) are my favorite. Cllassic look to boot.
March 7, 2010It is a very easy car to drive with alot of power for the size of the engine. smooth ride and nice gearbox. i can get 550km out of 43 litres. no rust in mine and is 22 years old
October 13, 2010It is spacious but not to big! It gets great gas mileage and it is very reliable! This car will help save you money and will get you were you need to go! It may not be an all in one vehicle, but it is a great investment! i would recomend this car to anyone!
September 8, 2009I got this car 3 years ago and have not had anything go wrong with it and only been impressed. The car is smaller than some would like but it has plenty of room for me. Handling, braking, acceleration are all excellent for a 20 year old car with a 4cyl engine auto.
April 7, 2008This car was a blast to drive and outrages for what it was. Mine was a 5 speed. We broke a power steering line so we just took the belt off then the ac stooped pumping cold air so we took that belt off and then added and intake and manifold back exhaust system. Let me tell you the little car could take some corners!
December 8, 2009awesome acceleration! handling not so bad but a bit nervous sometime.. the front of the car is like the hatchback and also like the toyota AE86.. as its an old model.. difficult to come across one in the road..so next u see one.. respect! :0)
October 22, 2009
