First sold in 1973, the Honda Civic is one of the most successful nameplates in automotive history, with over 10 million units sold. Since its inception, it has gone on to become the second-longest continuously-running nameplate in North America from any Japanese brand.
The Honda Civic began its life as a two-door coupe in July of 1972 followed by a three-door hatchback model later that year. Thanks of its transversely mounted engine and front-wheel drive, its design afforded more room inside for passengers and cargo – even despite its petite dimensions.
As its name might imply, the Civic was all about providing reliable, affordable transportation and little more. The original batch of Civics featured a basic AM radio, heater, foam-cushioned plastic trim, two-speed wipers and painted steel rims with a chromed wheel nut cap. Over the years, the Civic needless to say grew in size and continued to offer more upscale options.
From the very beginning of its existence, the Honda Civic garnered a reputation for reliability, fuel-efficiency, and environmental friendliness. Later generations also saw the addition of performance models such as the Type-R and Civic Si as well. The Si remains a popular model at the Honda dealer Manchester.
The first generation Honda Civic was powered by a 1,169 cc four-cylinder engine producing 52 horsepower. When it went on sale, its main rivals were domestic compacts such as the Ford Pinto, AMC Gremlin, and Chevrolet Vega – all of which have garnered less than stellar reputations for quality and reliability. Sales staff at the Honda dealership Maryland say Civic’s quality and reliability are still key attributes. Low maintenance costs are key to the Civic’s economical-to-own quality, according to Washington DC Honda service.
In addition to a two-door and three-door model, the first generation Civic also included a five-door hatchback model and a station wagon. With the oil crisis of 1973 and subsequent spikes in the price of gasoline, the Civic quickly became the car of choice for many Americans wanting high mileage. Armed with a $2,200 price tag and earning forty miles per gallon, the Civic became an instant success in North America.
All too often, many popular vehicles lose their way and over the years don’t retain the original formula that made them popular in the first place. The Honda Civic, which found immediate worldwide success and popularity as a cheap, fuel-efficient car, continues to be the benchmark for the compact segment. While other automakers may have produced cars that are cheaper, or more fuel-efficient, the current Civic still provides the build quality and fun-to-drive characteristics that helped the original model stand out.
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