Civic hatchbacks have been around for a long time. Six generations, to be exact. At SCCA racing events, you can still see some first-generation Civics, while quarter-mile events are primarily dominated by the last three generations. The Civic is affordable, lightweight, and gets good gas mileage stock. With so much out there to choose from, a hatchback owner can create a unique vehicle to fit his personality. They make great weekend warriors, wicked auto-crossers, sweet show vehicles, or insane drag cars. Which generation would be perfect for your needs? Read on, and we'll help you choose.
First And Second GenerationsThe Civic has been around for quite some time. It all started with a little hatchback back in the early '70s called the CVCC. This was Honda's attempt at a low-emissions vehicle, without the use of a catalytic converter. Using its sophisticated technology, Honda designed an engine that allowed a leaner fuel mix to be run. Although performance and engine size weren't the greatest in these cars, aftermarket parts were easy to find. Just about every modification found in today's popular hatchback has been done to the CVCC line. We've even found instructions on how to stroke the little 1.2L motor to a 1.4 with power output levels surpassing the 120 mark. The light weight and short wheelbase gathered a Koresh-like following, with some individuals realizing its potential as an auto-crosser. Various suspension conversions and chassis mods have made this a strong competitor. Although most of the aftermarket is now scarce for these models, there is still a small following. The parts that can still be found are often times used, but definitely available. Jackson Racing was one of the pioneers of this car and had some crazy ideas. With its help and a lot of custom fabrication, enthusiasts built some insane CVCCs. It seems Honda realized it had a good thing from the beginning, and the growth would only continue for the little car that could. But it wasn't until the second generation came along that the tinkers started popping up.
In its second running, the Civic hatchback received a complete change in styling. After having the Civic in the lineup for over five years, it was time to upgrade the creature comforts. Standard features included a tachometer with a 6,000 rpm redline, five-speed transmission, and soft-grip steering wheel. Also included in the Civic were a rear window wiper, opening quarter-panel windows, and an interesting choice in engine size. This base engine was stepped up from 1,200 cc to 1,300 cc and even offered an optional 1,500 cc for the big ballers. Even though the first generation gained notoriety with such a small motor, the second lost steam. The 1.5L motor and restyling didn't catch on with the aftermarket crowd and left a hole wide open for the Civic generation. Good thing this didn't stop things for Honda's little Civic.
Third Generation 1984-1987Honda expressed bold new changes as the third-gen Civic came with a new look, both in the exterior and interior styling. The Civic had proven to be reliable and economical, but now it was time to start making it visually appealing and market it as a sporty little car. Emphasis was placed on the Civic as a practical, economical, and fun to drive car. Honda also unveiled its little two-seat CRX into the Civic family. The long-roof design made for a sportier look and better space efficiency.
The CRX definitely helped with the aftermarket sources for Honda hatchbacks, especially since they shared motors and suspension. Actually, Honda offered three different motors. That's right, again Honda gave buyers an option that not many import car manufacturers were offering at the time. Even though import performance was in its infant stages, a few products popped up for the third-generation hatchback. Drivers began to realize there was definitely something there, which began the cries for more performance-related parts.
By Courtesy Of American Honda
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