This Amazing 1986 Honda Civic Is Basic Transportation 40 Years Ago

[@DougDeMuro]

GO BID on THIS! Time Capsule HERE! crsnbds.com/civic

[@LuisUrbieta]

Hey doug, I thought you were going to review new cars but over the last couple of weeks you've spoiled us with new cars

[@NjoyMoney]

Doug, you MUST drive a CB accord (1989-1993) i guarantee it will blow you away. Double wishbone suspension on all 4 corners and just a really solid car even for its age, they are gaining popularity right now

[@LuisUrbieta]

@@NjoyMoney I agree because you know Doug demuro always boils us with brand new cars built today. But I get it sometimes he has to review other cars that are not made today

[@fortheloveofnoise]

I wish they would make cars this simple new nowadays, we need the return of affordable 2 door hatches.

[@julianevans9548]

As someone who grew up in 1980s Europe, smoking was very much prioritised over road safety.

[@livingcoconut1417]

I just appreciate more when Doug reviews these kind of cars, like he's going back to his roots

[@kevinconroy2901]

Doug, we love you Doug

[@Ethan_Alexandur]

Thanks captain obvious

[@unclewilbur8976]

I think it's boring.

[@veerravuri6210]

@@unclewilbur8976you’re boring.

[@unclewilbur8976]

@veerravuri6210 I thought to myself, why would you bother to reply to my comment? Well, obviously, it's you who is boring. ...and immature.

[@274pacific]

“Give me the cheapest thing ya got” and then kept it for 40 years. What a legend.

[@RyanHollis]

Only cost $150 a year!

[@Humma_Kavula]

and didn't even drive it... only had 900 miles lol

[@USERNAME1-x5u]

@@Humma_Kavula Who said you had to drive the car ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@purwantiallan5089]

A140, Subaru XT Turbo and Geo Metro Convertible 1986 all also look as good as 1986 Civic Hatchback.

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@Humma_Kavulashould've driven 2000 miles instead of 900 miles.

[@xjet]

I disagree with the styling comments Doug makes. Hondas from the 1980s and 1990s were highly distinctive and very attractive when compared to the competition. The Preludes and the CRX were gorgeous designs. These days, Hondas look just like Toyotas which look just like Subarus etc -- all samey and bland IMHO.

[@jeffmcdonald730]

The paint on that Honda still looks fantastic, like a BC/CC, using the "old paint" that wasn't environmentally friendly. Chevy would use a single step base white for their cheapest worst cars.

[@noodlehat3250]

Had a 86 CRX SI.......still probably my favorite car

[@parkerbohnn]

@@noodlehat3250 So did I a blue colored one.

[@Funco1979]

@@xjet I agree 100%.

[@imsurly7742]

I had an 87 CRX without AC and it was Legend!

[@bridgecross]

More of this please. Whenever I see an early model EVERYDAY car in great shape it always turns my head. You just know there's a story there.

[@ryanA133]

I think the issue is finding them. Hes said before that he is very picky when he reviews older cars and well preserved options are hard to find, moreso within the x amount of miles that is sensible to travel

[@FlintIronstag23]

Me too. I saw a wood paneled first generation Dodge Caravan a few years ago in a parking lot and was amazed it was still being used. Other car spotting "prizes" were an Acura Vigor and a Suzuki X-90 since they never sold many to begin with.

[@DG_427]

More like there isn't a story. It has just been sitting for years.

[@arau8310]

I cannot tolerate the Cars and Coffee venue in my town- but when I used to go- there'd always be a contingent of "Lambo Bros" (Lambros?) who made a loud entrance (often together) and parked together. A large number of those in attendance would flock over to gawk at the spectacle, (who doesn't like Lamborghinis?) but honestly- when I tried talking to the owners, I cannot recall ever getting the feeling that they had much interest in the car other than the exclusivity and attention-grabbing aspects of ownership. I'd much rather check out the Dodge Stealth that showed up, or the Subaru Brat. Those guys like cars enough that they found those old odd cars and got / kept them in running condition. I always felt like the Lambo guys wrote a check, and showed up to see who got more attention.

[@sm3ssick]

Exactly this. Doug drives a 2025 Honda electric SUV-snore. Doug drives a 1986 Honda Civic-instant upvote! I owned an '86 Civic Si, and driving it was great fun.

[@nirian42]

THANK YOU! So bored of 8000lb electric SUVs with iPads glued to the dash. Give us more of this! :)

[@ForsakenGod23]

After this comment, you are now my friend.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

enough people buy those dumb SUVs so now we're stuck in car hell

[@dannelson1982]

EXACTLY!!!!

[@joeboxerrr]

people say this but the ‘regular’ cars don’t get as many views

[@baab4229]

@@ShaiyanHossain Cause they're good. Most people are looking for easy convenient stuff as most people are not hyperfixated car autists. A big surprise there I know.

[@jamesgiltner6756]

Reminds me of my first car, a 1998 Chevrolet Metro. 1L, 3 cylinder, 5 speed, no radio, no a/c, no power anything. Before it was mine, it was my mom’s. And I can remember riding in the back seat (bench!) all the way to Florida from Indiana to see my aunt. Still miss it to this day!

[@metalheadgamer6666]

I just saw a 3 Door Chevy Metro Hatch just a couple weeks ago. Cool looking things, but I like the Geo styling more.

[@Echo-wc7sm]

@@jamesgiltner6756 knew a guy that delivered pizzas in his metro in the late 90s. They got 50 mpg, he was actually making money because gas was super cheap then also.

[@tomcatpilot1]

These reviews of older "normal" cars are FAR more exciting to me than reviews of the latest high-end super cars. These both showcase someone's hard work of preservation over the decades, and also provide us with the nostalgia of what cars were like when we were kids or new drivers or whatever the case may be. It brings us back to a different generation. All modern super car reviews are the same: it's so fast, it looks cool, and it's got a big computer that helps it drive itself. But these reviews... make you remember your own childhood and your own life, and simpler times. Keep it up, Doug!

[@DaGhost141]

I personally like the high end supercar reviews, the ones I find meh are the tons of boring SUVs. Replace these with older car videos and Id be very happy

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@DaGhost141Demuro should also review the W1, Pajero, or the Abt Audi TT-R.

[@mindeloman]

Years ago I went a national all-chevy car show. I've never been to a car show that big. Hundreds and hundreds if cars. Among all the 64-72 SS big block Chevelles was a base Malibu 2 door - gold on gold - and had a in line 6 engine, automatic, and bench seat. This car was absolutely perfect . I talked to the owner. He had a lot of other cars. He just wanted to do one car that was a bread and butter car. The kind if car a secretary might drive. He had all the appropriate stickers, tags, and grease pencil marks. When he won best in class, there was moaning and groaning because, "it's not even a big block car." I was just so happy to see a car like that, for a change.

[@StishFicks]

Indeed! Anyone can go out and finance a brand new high-end supercar to impress people they don't like. Someone rolls up in a pristine old car like this, that REALLY impresses me. Unfortunately, there aren't very many people into these older vehicles anymore as everyone just wants the newest and greatest tech, even if it bankrupts them. But who am I to say that; I'm sure there will be plenty of people restoring Teslas and late model supercars 50 years later 🤦

[@stopdacap2991]

I just love seeing older ICE still running like new. Older is sometimes better imo 👍🏾

[@redbuIIracing]

Finally, after nearly 2 incredibly long months of waiting, Doug uploads a review of a car which we care about, not some 2024 Ultra luxury SUV.

[@chuch541]

Let's support big companies working with Doug. He deserves it. Truly the center of all car guy culture online. He's like the godfather of KZbin car content. Obviously no car guy is buying anything new sans a few exemptions.

[@Ericstrains]

We? Speak for yourself lol

[@basketcase1235]

@@Ericstrains comparing his likes to yours, perhaps it's you speaking for yourself

[@Mike_C-79]

Seriously. I don't think I'll ever watch the new Tahoe RST video, but I'm watching this day of release. I couldn't care less about an $80k Chevy, or any full size SUV these days.

[@trinitysoul]

@@chuch541let redline reviews do this SVU’s and boring cars with his thunk

[@joncampo]

I had this exact car and it was by far my favorite car I ever owned. I loved the simplicity, efficiency and pragmatism. I drove through the streets of San Francisco and at 13.5' in length I could do U turns effortlessly even without power steering. It was all glass with virtually no blind spots and was getting about 38 MPG. The only reason I sold it was because I was having a baby and wanted a car with airbags. I got a 98 civic to replace it, but it wasn't the same. One of my biggest regrets ever was selling this car

[@dudebud72]

My parents had one of these, 1985 DX, sole purpose it did a mail route in upstate NY, winters and all, total mileage, 368,000 miles for the 1985. I bought it off my parents for $100, drove it to college. The 1989, 1995, and 1999, all including the 1985, did 1,369,000 miles collectively. The 1985 did have a few little issues, but the others didn’t. These Hondas provided income for my parents,and my childhood. Love this video. My parents have been gone for a while now, made me smile, and sad I miss them. My god I may bid on this!!

[@Saturnfan94]

I am a mail carrier i have used my own car too but there would be no way someone today can do a mail route in such a small car with all the amazon that comes in.

[@darioburstin2418]

Did your parents actually take the $100 from you??

[@sirmounted8499]

@@darioburstin2418 It's important to teach your kids that things have value and that you can't just get it for free. Makes you take better care of it as well.

[@darioburstin2418]

@@sirmounted8499 I understand, though in my culture, when the value is low, parents would see something like this more as a gift than a transaction

[@zenithperigee7442]

@dudebud72, that's a nice memory! I'm sorry about your parents ~_~ I miss mine dearly too. My Father passed when I was 21, I then began working with a man who became like a second Dad to me at that time, then after 3 yrs he became sick and died. Then my Pops (Stepfather) would pass a few yrs later and then my beloved Mother was the last to leave this world just 2 yrs ago before Thanksgiving. I took care of her the last few yrs of her life.... When I was little she actually had a 2-door, manual '78 Honda Accord, gold. She loved that little car! As it aged, it struggled to get up the hills in the mountains, you had to pull over and let it "rest", lol. We also had a 4-door '56 Chevy I think it was, had the "gas filler" behind the driver's side tail light. There was a piece of the light trim you had to twist, then open the "light" and there was the filler! Dad also had an old Chrysler that had push-buttons on the instrument panel which controlled the transmission! People have no idea just how innovative and interesting some car designs were in the old days. It's funny how the Civic in the video didn't even had a passenger side mirror YET today suddenly "We need cameras and sensors telling us there is traffic behind us, on either side etc." -_-

[@Jerrykotlarz]

I sold Honda cars in this era. All Civics, regardless of trim level, arrived at the dealership without radios and air conditioning. They were sold as accessory items only. There were no factory options. You picked your model, color, trim & transmission choice and added accesories from there. Our repair technicians would install the optional AC units at night for extra pay.

[@DeepDeepSpace]

Wish they would go back to that instead of making customers pay for options they don't want or need.

[@Lorentz_Driver]

@@DeepDeepSpace I don't. That would make the second hand market even more atrocious.

[@jimmy999-z2j]

Dealer installed a/c was somewhat common in the 70’s but I didn’t know that Honda was doing that in the 80s - interesting

[@mrpoohbearlvr]

Got that right! At very inflated prices too. Honda knew how to bring in the cash .... everything was extra and "dealer installed"!!

[@lotheronprime]

Doug is acting like some of this is rare, but this was very common in the mid 80s for all vehicles of this price range to lack features we take for granted today.

[@tsotighguy]

Holy crap! One of my older cousins had this as their car in high school in Moore, Oklahoma & it was badly damaged during the May 3rd 1999 tornado, though it still was somehow still drivable. All the windows were blown out and the body had quite a bit of damage. But what I remember most was that it smelled just like their neighborhood after the F5 tornado tore through. It was kept at our house for a few months before it was able to be moved. I'll never forget that smell, especially due how long that car was there.

[@TheRealSuperJ]

In 1986, my mom had a friend who had this exact car, even the color. It may be hard to believe, but even a barebones Civic at that time felt so much more refined than most other cars, at any price. The switches, gearshift, the way the door handles felt, just everything felt so well engineered and built. Honda and Toyota really upped the bar on stuff like that over the years.

[@hamburgerhamburgerv2]

Japan’s whole culture and lack of resources means they have to make the most of what they have

[@tech9803]

These were the class act of hatchbacks in the mid-80s, light and sprightly with clean styling and great visibility. The one area they lagged was they didn't have fuel injection and the base model was very basic.

[@jdev232]

@tech9803 oh man.....the si, back in that time period was something else! Crx-si was a thing of sports beauty. 91 was perfect.

[@drunkenhobo8020]

Things like the early Civics basically destroyed the entire British car industry, because they did novel things like start on a cold morning.

[@bobhill3941]

Fantastic review, I love when Doug reviews simple, honest, classics like this. I appreciate how this has just what you need, it's refreshing or you can step up and get a little more to make it perfect. I would've gone with the si😊 I love the steel wheels. I did what research I could but couldn't answer the specific seatbelt question about three points in the rear outboards. I do remember when the middle seat was just a lap belt. The pop out vent windows were to ash out your cigarettes.

[@racerxfile]

This is one of my favorite reviews so far. I had an 87 Civic Hatchback...the mid-level model with cloth seats, 5-speed, A/C, and a tape deck. I put 130,000 miles on it in 5 years and it carried everything I took to college and moved me to my first job. It was pretty utilitarian, but it had a slick shifter, better than average handling, and got ridiculously good gas mileage. This review brought all those memories flooding back. Thanks Doug!

[@johnholloway691]

I also had an '87 DX, the mid-level version. After paying my own way through graduate school, my dad gave me the money to buy a car, as long as it was a Honda Civic. He said he'd waited until it was clear I was going to actually finish, and since my old Toyota Corona was on its last legs, he didn't want me to not make it to a job interview because of a dead car. I immediately took that Civic out on empty north Texas country roads and hit 100mph. Then I drove it as fast as possible on back roads from north Texas to central Kansas for a post-graduate internship, often at 80-90mph. It got 36mpg on that trip! I sold it in 1994 (I had the timing belt replaced simply because it was the right thing to do) with 100,000 miles on it, for not much less than I paid for it. This review really brought back some memories. I can't believe I was so reckless, but I never even put the slightest ding in it!

[@racerxfile]

@@johnholloway691 I had two cars before my 87 hatchback, but I don’t regard them with the same fondness. Glad to hear another story of finding maybe not a diamond in the rough, but definitely a ruby or an emerald like our beloved 87s!

[@EbolaSquirrel]

what happened to it

[@eggmangoogoogajoob1466]

Thank you for highlighting this car. I owned the exact same vehicle, with different wheels. My Civic was 'loaded', with AC and a cassette deck. I bought it 2001 with 120,000 miles, and let her go 3 years later after having the muffler replaced. The guys at the muffler shop were bummed out because of the underbody rust. It wouldn't have survived a lift on a hoist, so they had to replace the exhaust like a driveway hack, with a jack and a stretcher. It survived 18 Michigan winters before the exhaust went, and had a guy interested in it shortly after. The clutch was slipping and I had gotten married, so I let her go for $400. Just fantastic to see literally MY BLUE CIVIC in such pristine condition on KZbin. Thanks again Doug!

[@andrewgee241]

As someone who was a teenager in the 1980s this 40 year old car seems totally normal. Unlike how a 1940s car would have been by the 1980s. So it was funny hearing Doug describe this Civic as so old. Like I would have viewed the 1940s car.

[@johanwejedaldesign]

Agrees! I was 13 when this was new!

[@arloallen-dipasquale7481]

Frankly, this car has a lot more in common with a car from 1940 than it does a car from 2020.

[@roberth3793]

Agreed. I was a teen in the 70's and I can't believe how young people are so amazed at something I find completely normal. My first car was a '75 Corolla and had the same "luxuries" this car has. It also had 3 point seatbelts which were made mandatory in 1968. Didn't matter because nobody wore them anyway . Back then most cars didn't have a rear defroster and if you did it was only a matter of time before the little wires would break. Also don't forget that if you wanted to put in a radio you also needed to buy speakers and had to wire everything in. Good times!

[@jamesgizasson]

I was born in the late 80s, and this car feels like home to me. The newest vehicle I've owned was from 1996. I sold it for an aircooled Beetle. I feel so out of place in new cars.

[@JamesBond-fo6ow]

its understatedly beautiful. clean lines, large glass, function over fluff. Gorgeous.

[@mikedelape6609]

you people are extremely weird and broke

[@kylegriffiths5990]

Back when a car was an actual fkn car. Not a microwave or iPad on wheels.

[@shane864]

You also evaporate if you are ever in a crash. I love them, but I'm glad they're gone.

[@JamesBond-fo6ow]

missed adding that my second car was a used 1980 honda wagon, 5 speed stick. Most reliable thing ever. No Calif to So Calif to tahoe to SF bay and everywhere in between racing bikes all over. slept in it a million times. exactly like this... but mine was well take care of.: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5PFhKSqrqd-nJo

[@purwantiallan5089]

​@@kylegriffiths5990and also not sound muffled with EV specifications.

[@goopygeiger5632]

Inherited a 1984 civic in 1991 from a college friend of mine. It needed a clutch and he needed it gone. Paid to have the clutch repaired and thus began my allegiance to Honda. The first car I ever purchased was a 1987 civic DX in 1993- man I loved that car! 8 bucks in gas and I drove for 2 weeks on it. My current fleet 2005 CRV 2011 Pilot and 2014 Ridgeline. Awesome review -brought back great memories of my early civics.

[@R3350-u2l]

I have this 1984 Civic in static condition. I was fortunate enough to be in charge of engineering the transmission assembly line for all the models you currently own. One in Ohio and the other two in Georgia. In Japan, new cars disappear from the market in about 8 years, but I would like to express my gratitude and respect to the users in the United States who continue to use them for a long time.

[@victorrojas8798]

I still have my 1988 Honda Civic Hatchback, I have have it since 1993, it has over 265 k miles, I love it and use it regularly.

[@manoman0]

You are very well advised to keep it well maintained. I have a Matiz and I understand its value. Not market value but the value of simpleness.

[@pashabiceps95]

@@manoman0daewoo matiz? It will ever be a value only for scrapyards

[@manoman0]

@@pashabiceps95 You're so right. However, it serves me well. No gimmicky electronics except the reasonable amount of electrical helpers and airbags but that's it.

[@PetesCreativeRecycling]

I have a 1989 Honda CRX with 880k miles on it. Guarantee it still starts when I turn the key. I've replaced the suspension, clutch twice, brakes 4 times, alternator, radiator, timing belt 10ish times, and the exhaust. Also had the seats reupholstered, but that's it. Oil change and gas. Runs like new. Rusty rear quarter panels around the wheel wells is the only thing wrong with it. It's still on the original fuel injector, original wheel bearings, and so on. Car doesn't even rattle over bumps and still gets 44mpg. It's a DX, not an Si or HF.

[@victorrojas8798]

@@PetesCreativeRecycling Mine is a DX as well. My car has had a few problems with the radiator and cooling systems so it has just have a complete overhauled engine, I changed the admission a few years back, the clucth a few times also. It has not been my everyday car for over a decade so it has not that many miles on. The roads in my country are awful, so it does rattle a lot.

[@rayemanuel7460]

I purchased a brand new, blue DX hatchback 5 speed manual in this same Avignon blue metallic color in August of 1987 from Marin Honda in Corte Madera, CA. Salesperson's name was Blair Roman. I skipped the optional AC because I lived in San Francisco and didn't need it because of the cool weather there. I did splurge for the optional right hand mirror, digital clock, stereo system with cassette deck, and two rear speakers (stereo only included two front speakers). I drove that little car all over the place for 16 years and put 241k miles on it, with the only repair needed a new clutch. Life was simpler back then. I loved that little Civic and it took me through the ups and downs of life all over California.

[@rStove]

how did it do on the sfo hills

[@flashnmb1]

I had a 82 GL; best car I ever owned. Don’t you wish you could have it again?

[@craxo8796]

what a time to be alive

[@tatianaes3354]

San Francisco is cool? Is not it still tropical climate?

[@clivet3252]

@@rayemanuel7460 I thought he was harsh on the styling. They looked very modern for 1983 and the rear styling was particularly interesting.

[@xjet]

I had the 1.6Si variant of this car with the 5-speed manual. It was a rocket in its day and *so* reliable. I wish I still had it.

[@connorchubbuck9377]

Bring it back! We need simple reliable cars that cost less to produce, cost less to purchase, and cost less to maintain. I really don’t need a spaceship to get to and from my 8-5 every day.

[@flashnmb1]

Nail it ! If Honda could do it again; I believe they could sell astronomical numbers of these.

[@Veritas419]

Safety and emissions make that very difficult

[@MrMCDiggles]

​@@flashnmb1with what people demand on base models these days, stripping away all non essential features people wouldn't buy a car without a stereo or power locks/ windows.

[@landonbenford8369]

Doesn't seem like todays' manufacturers wanna cater to our Generation. Lincoln and Cadillac USED to.

[@Josh-179]

You may not think so, but this is a death trap by today's standards. Crash at any decent speed and it's over. A lot of the cost in today's cars keeps you alive.

[@JuniorExecutive1987]

Vented rear windows have always eluded Doug. They aren’t there to provide air directly to passenger or for cigarette ashes. The purpose of the vented window is to provide airflow through the vehicle so there’s somewhere for it to escape. Next time you’re driving put just the front windows down, then crack open the rear windows, you’ll feel the difference.

[@floridaman7]

A fart catcher

[@inspire6837]

@@JuniorExecutive1987 Yeah I was like what is Doug saying lmao

[@richdixon]

Correct. You can get abnormal pressures in a cabin with just a front window down. A friend of mine has actually had a rear glass blow out in an E30 from having a front window open without any other window open. Vented rear windows even out the pressure and greatly enhance the airflow.

[@sci-fyguy7767]

The simplest form of working “air conditioning”.

[@ev4n5eli0n01]

@@richdixon Yep, E30’s are known for doing that, lol.

[@bobkull]

I have this exact model Civic from 1984. It's been my only transportation for 20 years and it's an absolutely fantastic car. Doug seriously undersells it by describing it as a curiosity. I've just returned from my annual camping trip in northern Canada and it's amazing how much gear the car can hold and still let me see out the windows all around. The upholstry is shot on all the seats and I've covered the front seats with covers. The back seat stays permanently down and I've build a plywood platform back there, under which is a lot more storage space. I've also rigged it up that I can lay the passenger seat down and put another piece of plywood over it so I can stretch out on my Thermarest for a comfortable night's sleep. Even heavily loaded, the car gets 50 mpg on the highway. In the city (when not loaded) it drives like a sports car. It has a lot of pickup and go and handles super well. Another amazing thing is the body. The car sat outside for many years and when I bought it for $500, the paint was shot. I purchased a dozen spray cans of auto paint and repainted it. Even after all these years, it has virtually no rust on it. When I bought the car 20 years ago, it sounded like a sewing machine and the body was perfect. But I've driven it over miles of gravel road and hit two deer. A couple of years ago the mechanic, who I'd been going to for a long time, said I needed to buy a new car. I got a new mechanic instead. So far it has 160 K miles and is still running well.

[@volvo09]

I can't believe this car still has mo radio in it 40 years later, it's so well preserved

[@antikommunistischaktion]

Especially because all of the wiring is there. All you'd have to do is pop in a head unit and find an antenna that will mate with the connector on the roof.

[@jeraldjoyce2995]

but did the owner really need it? no tach means they spent all their time listening to the engine & figuring out when to shift. when i got my 07 honda fit, the radio didnt work for the first week of ownership. not that i really cared, i was too busy learning stick.

[@thenormalyears]

It don’t have speakers either if it don’t have a radio

[@callumdonington2227]

The delete plate is cooler than any head unit you could put in there

[@uvre9938]

@@callumdonington2227 Definitely the coolest part of that vintage automobile. Owner kept it STOCK! Love it! Imagine how many mooks would have been tempted years ago to install a radio and antenna and then toss the original block-out bezels/plates. This is such a rare time capsule. Original, and highly-original! 😍

[@timdavis1877]

Very fun! Doug says a few times that this was a “regular car”, but I recall vividly that this car, as basic as is was, showed so much more advanced in terms of efficiency both mechanically and with use of interior space than any domestic competitor. The Honda did not fall apart, as witnessed here, vs. K-Car, Omni, Chevette, Escort, etc al. It’s two box design looked SO advanced!

[@frankandstein8618]

That's right.

[@GlennC789]

Also Honda forced other car companies at the time to keep up with it,, particularly in areas like fully independent suspension, which became table stakes among self-respecting small cars thanks to Honda. Even now other companies have regressed, with Infiniti, Nissan, Corolla, Mazda all using beam rear axles on many models, a big step backward - from the 1980's!

[@throwback19841]

Yes- we had a 1984 Wagovan (shuttle 4wd actually) in the UK, and it was like a spaceship - three speed and intermittent wipers, rear wiper, fog lights, heated rear window, selectable 4wd, folding seats, independent suspension, front disc brakes, 12v engine, 6 speed manual (5+ a low ratio for off road). Compare that with the Austin Allegro my dad was driving before... Euro/JDM versions of these cars also didn't have catalytic converters or smog pumps, and, uh, they went a bit quicker as a result. Nothing blistering but we used to cruise on the motorway at 80mph just fine in that thing.

[@tenkarabadger5244]

Incomparably better than anything the Big Three was offering. No comparison from an engineering and quality standpoint.

[@stuntmonkey00]

Yeah, up to the late 90's, you paid a premium for Hondas, all of the equivalent competitor cars were pretty crappy compared to them... Corolla/Tercells included.

[@applelover98]

This makes my old 83 Civic wagon seem luxurious! It had a/c, Hondamatic, rear wiper and rear defroster and radio. The car was slow as hell but reliable, easy to maintain and cheap on gas. I miss cars like that.

[@RegularCars]

Gawd, I want something like this

[@ge0graphaly]

crossover of the century

[@emptyshirt]

@@ge0graphaly RCR reviewed Doug's Ferrari 360 years ago.

[@RegularCars]

@@emptyshirt and I crawled in the Frunk

[@straightbusta2609]

@@RegularCars Of course you did

[@mikepalmieri4989]

go away with your cappuchino phase

[@TrentFischer-l1k]

The thing I love most about this car is that it had bumpers, like cars used to have. So if you had a small fender bender, the bumpers would take the shock. No damage. Not like today with the plastic fenders that will cost $5k to fix.

[@purwantiallan5089]

And front bumpers that may take $25.000 for fixing it.

[@hadesmcfadden2982]

sure, decent for small fender-benders, bad for overall crashes. Also, no damage? That's not accurate, low speed collisions leave some damage they just do, don't make stuff up. also, sure while those plastic fenders cost 5k to repair, survivability in a modern car is statistically proven to be FAR better than cars of 40 or more years ago. I'll take actually surviving when some distracted influencer in their Vette t-bones me at 70mph vs some bumpers.

[@markthomas2436]

@@hadesmcfadden2982 , I do not think you negated his point, but there is always one of ya out there.

[@sminem6572]

@@markthomas2436and theres always the boomer drooling over the metal box on wheels that would implode in any collision above 20 mph just because “i can fix it myself, no technology to break!!!!”

[@markthomas2436]

@@sminem6572 , that car would not "implode in any collision above 20 mph" at all. I owned that same kinda car. Have you ever owned THAT same car? Well then, you just do not know.

[@glennmckenzie1096]

I currently run a bright red 1987 version of this car as sold in Australia: Japanese made, 1500 cc (12 valve!), 4sp automatic (with tachometer - huh?), with power steering: 50,000 miles - and I love it! So do so many people, who smile and wave, as I pass, and chat when I stop at lights. It's perfectly perky, and very comfortable in city driving. It also has more 'comforts' - fabric seats, more ventilation options, radio/cassette, etc

[@tenkarabadger5244]

Legit most excited I’ve been for a Doug review in months.

[@grantwinkelbauer1120]

The visibility behind Doug when he is driving! I wish we could have these again.

[@robadams1645]

Visibility is great, but not when you're surrounded by vehicles that are 5 times your size and whose bumper is going to come right through that window in a crash.

[@FerrariTeddy]

@@robadams1645 yeah that’s the problem with the nuclear arms race going on in the North American automobile market

[@megachonk9440]

@@FerrariTeddy It was also a problem in 1986 when this car was new. There were plenty of hefty American sedans on the roads back then that could crush this car like a bug. Tiny compact cars like this Civic were still a bit of a novelty, and people didn't usually drive them unless it was all they could afford. Especially poverty-spec versions like this one that did the bare minimum to meet regulations and absolutely nothing else.

[@landonbenford8369]

@@megachonk9440 You're absolutely Right!! Worrying about getting run over every second takes away from the driving experience. You can get killed driving a semi these days. The alternative is taking public transit.

[@PG-20]

Visibility that would be taken up by the large barges that were Buicks and Cadillacs at the time. It wasn't any different then than it is to present day.

[@davidmontoya6327]

This is my first car. I bought one in 1998 while in high school. You're right, it's great on the streets but once you take it on the highway....oh man! It felt like the space shuttle entering the atmosphere, as if it was going to break apart. It could BARELY get to 65 MPH, but I would not recommend going faster. It was a super fun car.

[@highlycaffeinated6864]

I love when Doug does reviews on these older classic cars from long gone eras. So many cars today are just boring cookie cutter versions of each other. Back in the 70s, 80s, and 90s cars still had originality and manufacturers were still taking risks. As a kid from the 80s this car was such a nice trip down memory road.

[@thecianinator]

in the 80s every car was a box and in the 90s every car was a sanded box, they only look unique now because most of them are gone

[@highlycaffeinated6864]

@thecianinator I don't usually respond to replies but this was an unusually bad take and so incredibly inaccurate it actually caught me off guard. Surprised anyone viewing Doug could be that uninformed tbh.

[@Victoria3232-j7o]

1970s 1980s had some of the biggest scrap metal that came out from automakers but they were decent

[@highlycaffeinated6864]

@@Victoria3232-j7o That wasn't because of the car manufacturers, that was because of all the federal mandates coming out for safety and gas mileage regulations. That's what makes that era even more interesting to see how each company had a different approach on how to design cars that were fun to drive again. Seeing muscle cars coming out of Detroit again in the late 80s and the rise of the German and Japanese luxury and sports cars. It was an amazing time period for automobiles, they were throwing anything and everything at the wall to see what stuck. The first time I drove a 1987 Iroc Camaro and a 1993 Mazda RX7 I was like, "Oh this is new, and freaking fantastic." You will never see me saying that after getting into a (insert random manufacturer here) boring 2024 cross over that looks like every other cross over on the road. Yes modern cars are a million times better in safety and quality than the older cars and also equally soulless and forgettable.

[@DamnYouMendel]

I had the 1985 version of this car. When I added an aftermarket radio I was surprised to find that the wiring for the antenna was under the cap on the roof.

[@concinnus]

Somebody else said the radios were always a dealer-add. So the wiring had to always be there.

[@tonypetracca9530]

I drove that car from 1990-2000! For me it was a great upgrade from a 1982 Ford Escort. It was reliable. Never really felt under-powered. Now I drive a 2013 Honda Civic. Had it for 10 years. Drives great. Yes, I am frugal.

[@bradchoi9679]

I think what Doug doesn't realize is that the economy in 1986 was not doing so great. I was 29 at the time, and the Savings and Loan crisis was in full swing, interest rates were insane (28% interest on my mortgage), and people just weren't spending on fancy cars. Honda was doing the average Joe a HUGE favor by offering these stripped down models (as he calls it) at affordable prices. Add to that the indestructibility of the Civic, and you have a winning formula for a country that was going through a tough time. Even though Doug has done a stellar job of making his way in life (kudos to you, good sir) I get the strong impression that he was born into a wealthy family, which would explain the disdain he exhibits when reviewing ordinary vehicles like this. It doesn't seem to occur to him MOST of us welcome cheap, reliable vehicles such as these. No judgement, just an observation. Great video of a great car!

[@jamesengland7461]

I don't think he's judging at all, but marveling at simpler times. He loves these quirks and features of NOT having quirks and features!

[@DeepDeepSpace]

Had more to do with fuel economy because big gas guzzling cars weren't really all that expensive back then. After the gasoline shortages of the 1970s people wanted cars that were fuel efficient. In addition, there was a strong movement to reduce air pollution leading to stricter regulations on how much gasoline a car could use. At the time, the best way to improve fuel economy was to make cars lighter in weight. The lighter a car is, the less fuel you need to move it. Lighter cars could also get decent acceleration with smaller less powerful engines that use less fuel. US automakers were caught off guard because they had a tradition of only making big gas guzzling cars. This created an opening for Japanese automakers to gain market share in the US with their smaller more fuel efficient cars.

[@baggierols73]

I always thought the mid-eighties was a boom time in the US (13 years old in 86) and Reagan era yuppies ruled?

[@jeraldjoyce2995]

@@baggierols73 it depended on the tax bracket you were in

[@mpettengill1981]

@@baggierols73 A lot of that is nostalgia and mythology. Sure, if you lived in a coastal city and/or worked in a lucrative industry (computers, banking for example) yeah, life was good. If you had money to lend or save - see the interest rates cited by the OP - life was really good. If you needed to borrow money or worked in manufacturing and industry, true for a lot of people and small business at the time...things were rough financially.

[@ericmarois6960]

I miss when cars were this simple. They were awesome and I loved 'em. Civics, Corollas, GTIs, all so much fun.

[@poppad1187]

My brother had an 1981 Civic hatchback ( light green) paint & a sweet Hondamatic transmission That car began my entire family loyalty to the Honda Brand. Just a solid reliable little go cart. I remember buying my first Honda Civic, a Black DX Hatch 4sp Auto , 16 valve 102 hp , roll down windows but it had A/C. Bought it right out the showroom. You actually drove that car with its manual steering That car took everything that was thrown at it , especially living through Canadian winters, sitting so close to the ground and managing to make it through massive snow storms rolling down the massive 401 to Toronto. I’ll just never forget the amount of trouble free mileage you could rack up on these amazing cars before cars became overtaken by so many sensors leading to so many more things to go wrong. I definitely appreciate some aspects of new cars but if you just wanted inexpensive transportation these were the cars and that was the time. Appreciate the video Doug ! There remains to a Honda vehicle in every family members driveway today but it’s looks like this is possibly the end unless changes are made. My 2015 Accord Coupe EX-L V6-6 speed is the last of the real N/A engines that’s reliable with plenty of power to enjoy. Unfortunately good things come to an end unless Honda wakes up.

[@TubaSteve369]

My grandmother had one in the same body style. Passed it on to my brother when she passed away. Well over 300,000 Mi with snow tires in Vermont amazing!

[@blaknoizee]

I still have my 89 CRX Si with 224k on it. Its still all factory, does have A/C. They're nice and the fanfare is also nice to hear.

[@purwantiallan5089]

Del Sol SiR also with 334.299km mileage.

[@attorneykid]

I have a 1989 CRX HF with also 224k on it, also with factory A/C, but like this '86, no right-side mirror.

[@genuineapbt6690]

Well Doug, it does have hub caps. They have the “H” on them and they cap the hub. What it doesn’t have is wheel covers.

[@camand2769]

@ 14:34 Ok Doug! We see you packing!!! 🤭

[@davidraezer5937]

There is nothing wrong with basic transportation. Actually quite refreshing. I drive classic cars as my daily transportation. Recently bought a 61 Corvair Lakewood wagon. I have the middle of the road 700 model with 2-speed wipers and a heater. Love driving it. Living the 60’s car ownership experience is fun. Even the breakdowns.

[@kkarllwt]

I was at the bank today and was talking to a young female banker. 25 ish. She had never herd of the corvair, or ralph nader

[@bwofficial1776]

My first car was a then 30-year-old Jeep CJ. Base model with power steering as the only option and an added radio. Fun car, not very practical or reliable but it's always an experience to drive. I don't daily drive it any more but I still take it out on nice days.

[@knowbodiesfull5768]

Ernie Kovacs was killed in a crash in 1962 while driving a Corvair wagon.

[@zahemi914]

I was 16 y/o when this model came out and I was totally in awe struck of its simplicity look yet so 'cutely' practical., (My dad bought the sedan model, so I know how the driving pleasure was . If only I could find one in good condition to buy... (or its next model in particular.) 😊😊., And yes Doug...back in those days, radio was an optional... Not like today.. my dad's car was without one.

[@tofu1413]

Had the wagon version in same color. Absolutely adored that thing. Fun to drive. Cheap to run. Crazy good visibility and utility. Still think about it almost 20 years later.

[@chartreux1532]

From what i as a German learned about US Car Culture, the Honda Civic is the Americans VW Golf. Everyone had one at some Point, and everyone in their late Teens and early 20s did Stuff to it Prost & Cheers from Berchtesgaden in the Bavarian Alps

[@uludak8468]

back then hondas and mitsubishis also were quite common on german roads. now both have vanished from europe

[@chartreux1532]

@@uludak8468 Yes! But not the Civic. I was born in the 1980s and pretty much everyone i grew up with drove an old VW Golf haha

[@theblackhand6485]

Former Sperr Gebiet Berchtesgaden. 👻

[@johnlilly0]

Yeah, basically. I had an I think '82 Rabbit (as the Golf was then called in the US market) and it was more or less this spec: tiny engine, 4-speed manual, no passenger mirror, manual windows and mirror control etc. etc. When you tried to drive it uphill on a highway at altitude it did struggle, but at normal daily speeds it was just fine--and actually pretty fun on a twisty country road.

[@norwegianblue2017]

Very true. For what it's worth, I rolled my parent's Audi 4000 when I was in high school. VW was definitely very popular in 1980s America. At least it was in California. You were pretty cool if you had a GTI, a Jetta or Scirocco. I miss how popular sedans and hatchbacks were in the 80s and 90s. Way too many stupidly huge and sight-blocking SUVs on the road today.

[@Hg999k]

I was a Honda tech when this car came out. I miss the basic cars from those days. What memories I have in the shop in Pennsylvania

[@Parker-di7ef]

20:39 Doug pulls out a gun to go after the dirt bike guy. 😂

[@recessreved4]

@@Parker-di7ef bro was turning into todd from breaking bad

[@XAuroraM]

the look on his face he's determined to end him

[@anthonyw5261]

😂

[@polarlicht4758]

bike bro is done 😂

[@GeneralQuackers2009]

😂😂

[@alex_and_er_g]

My first car was a ‘90 base model Civic! Loved it. I’ll offer another theory on why it’s so enjoyable. Some modern enthusiast cars get praised specifically for their ‘feel’ - knowing through your fingertips, hips and bum exactly what the car was doing - being totally in tune with the tyres, engine and suspension without thinking. This is what cars like the old Civic did, even though the tyres and engine were a little underwhelming on paper. The car communicates everything SO CLEARLY to the driver, it’s like the most perfectly loyal pet dog. That’s super rare today. Thanks for listening 🫡

[@outlander2878]

Yep! Your theory holds true, I know exactly what you’re talking about. I remember the distinct pleasure of driving my dad‘s early 90s civic. I hate modern cars!

[@harshivjotsingh8073]

@@alex_and_er_g this is true to even the ek chassis to a certain extent. Double wishbone suspension made the civics such a great handling car from factory. My wife drives a 1996 EK1 (that only has 44k miles on it) and these are her words regarding the handling, "I love the civic because it goes where I want it to!" She's not a car enthusiast at all, she got the ek on my suggestion (I found her the car). I was genuinely surprised how a non car person was able to enjoy driving because they drove a 90s Honda. The "feel" of the older civics is lost in the newer ones unfortunately. I'm glad we found a pristine example like this one

[@toothlessseer3153]

I used to drive a car like that 40 years ago. I wish there were new cars like this *TODAY* cheap, simple, reliable w/o all sorts of overpriced nonsense that no one needs. _And I _*_LOVE_* the very low ride, the glass everywhere and the windshield going all the way out front (this was unique to Honda Accords and Civics, gave a wonderful driving experience) _IMO, a modern SUV is like a giant brick on top of large wheels_

[@pokerpariah]

I had a 1988 Honda Civic DX hatchback as a hand me down first car. I’ve owned some amazing cars and even a few exotics over the years but that 88 Civic always holds the top spot in my heart and I wish I never got rid of it. It had no power steering or actually power anything. It was quick and handled like a go cart as it was so light.

[@chumanho]

No power steering = tons of road feel 😊

[@brocksamson9737]

I'm so honored that I got to grow up owning Hondas back in the early to mid 2000s when they were relatively more affordable than ever. I owned - 3 crx, 1991 model b16a1, 2 1989 Si's with dual cam ZC - 92 INTEGRA Da b16a1 - 93 Eg hatch - 93 Honda del Sol si - 94 Honda Accord I will always love and cherish all these vehicles. I can tell you there's a special feeling about driving late 80s and early 90s vehicles comparatively to modern vehicles. The simplicity of them give a special euphoria that you can't capture from newer vehicles.

[@MercedesDenz]

1.6 in an integra?

[@BEASTxMODE]

Averaged 2 miles a day for 40 years. Impressive! 👏 Sold for $9,000 btw

[@MikeDiscusses]

Friend of mine had this back in 2011-12. We affectionately nicknamed it Papilo. He used to park it outside, he was my next door neighbor… whenever we need to go somewhere, we could just get any key, open the door easily and drive away. I wonder how it never got stolen. This review brings back memories… good ones.

[@ruben3305]

This type Honda takes me back to my high school years. I loved my 5 speed, 94’ EX Civic. Made so many memories with it.

[@Sandy_Marley]

A huge flaccid balls hanging.😅

[@sanchoodell6789]

40 years ago! Would you believe it! and it still looks so so modern! Imagine in 1986 you had a car from 40 years previously that would be 1946 just after World War Two had ended, It would have mudguards on the outside with a running board and and chrome bumpers and door handles. It would be from an era when people flew around in propeller planes like Spitfires and Wellington and Lancaster bombers and were listening to Glen Miller on the wireless. No TV yet. That's just shear crazy!

[@AquarianNomadic]

Good point!

[@justinvanaulen2478]

Buy a 2007-2008 Honda Fit Sport with a manual transmission RIGHT NOW. That is the modern version of this vehicle. It's analog, fun to drive and ultra reliable.

[@baronvonjo1929]

Hell no. I have a 2018 Fit and it's loaded with problems. But when I look up issues I find a ton referencing older Fits. Don't buy a Fit or Honda. Worst mistake I ever made.

[@justinvanaulen2478]

@@baronvonjo1929 The vast majority of the internet and general public disagrees with you.

[@donnyo639]

@@baronvonjo1929 The only issues with the last gen Fit was the weak A/C, so-so heater, and long rev-hangs when shifting. But that car saved my life when I was T-boned by a 4-Runner and flipped around twice. I would still recommend it for a practical, safe car in MT configuration, of course.

[@SR-ry6hs]

​@baronvonjo1929 your single bit of data is not a reliable way to judge a car brand. I have owned multiple Hondas. Some with over 200k miles. I have put about 500k miles on them all together. Almost completely free of issues. I do my maintenance, and don't drive them like an a-hole, and they are the best. So I am sorry about your specific car, but you are wrong about Honda as a brand (don't buy the first gen acura suv with the turbo, they are garbage lol)

[@mitch9521]

overrated leaky rotbox junk that requires periodic valve adjustments like its 1965, PASS.

[@NoBucks777]

Oh my gosh! I had that same car with radio and a/c in the same blue color. I could get 44 mpg on the interstate. Loved it!!! Thanks for spinning up the nostalgia feeling!!!

[@roscoefoofoo]

Had one. GREAT car. The mufflers wore out fast, the acceleration was dangerously weak, and the brakes got grindy. But it was otherwise remarkably reliable, fuel-efficient, practical, and nicely handling. Fantastic visibilty--even though that very low hood also made the car feel like a doorstop for an 18-wheelers' tires. It was the Gremlin done right. I know, because I also had a Gremlin (and a Vega). If you lived in a flat area (we didn't), it could get 35 mpg., too.

[@franknedobity2757]

I’ve had a 86 Honda civic just like that. I miss it. I also had an 85 and 87 hatchback. An amazing car for the times when 55 mph was an acceptable cruising speed. It started so well down to -25F and was amazing on fuel. The hatchback was the best. I even owned a very rare 87 civic HF 1.5l I couldn’t find any parts for nor be able to fix it but found it was rated for 42mpg city and 55 mpg highway. My 1.3L 4 spd was the most fun car to drive. 19:40 the smile 😃 on your face was the same every time I drove mine. I miss it so much in the winter. Mine had a defroster. Almost hit a moose once in mine with 2 other people inside. We almost could have just driven under the size of the moose. It never got stuck in the snow, it always started and I relied on it for 2 yrs from 08-10 when I needed something with a top speed over 60 mph. The torsion bar front suspension and solid rear swing arm with a short wheel base, manual steering and the 4 spd it was a car you could drive flat out without breaking the speed limit on a twisty back road and have a smile on your face the entire time.

[@djmeowth]

I love old car reviews, simple as. There are so many other places to get puff pieces on the newest vehicles, but I love the nitty-gritty of looking back at old cars and how driving was like back in those times.

[@huuglaoh6516]

Doug, thanks for this review. I had a 1986 Civic 1,3L back in the years, bought in May '86 (new). In the Netherlands it was delivered with a 5-speed, making it one of the quietest cars in its class which was important to me because I drove long hours in it. It did not come with a right rear mirror indeed, but I ordered that as an extra. Also, there was no standard radio but it had a "radio preparation kit, meaning an antenna and speakers. So I had the radio from my trade-in put in my new Honda. It was an adorable car, and after 65.000 km (40.390 miles) in 1,5 year I sadly had to resell it because I was allowed a company car. Still have warm memories to this car!

[@mysterjd34]

Lol @ the guy doing wheelies in the background at 0:44

[@user-tb5ns7hc5i]

One thing he forgot to mention is it’s incredible reliability compared to all other cars back then. This thing was not only cheap but it was supremely dependable and did not break. This was a better engineered car than from a reliability and longevity perspective than any American or German or even Japanese competitor at that time for its price point. This era ushered in Honda and Toyota as high reliability best in class standards that have existed ever since.

[@chrisxa1222]

Americans still made some very reliable cars back then. As for Germans opels were extremely reliable and easier to work on

[@user-tb5ns7hc5i]

@@chrisxa1222 There have been no American made vehicles ever made as quantifiably reliable as Hondas or Toyotas. I challenge you to name even one. Most Japanese vehicles made since the 80s will go over 350k miles without so much as fuel and oil changes reliably. Most American cars cannot even realize a quarter of that mileage before needing significant repairs for critical failure points.

[@piggy310]

There were some small Chevys that were just as reliable as Toyotas, such as the Prizm.. I had one and it was quieter than my girlfriend's parents Cadillac sedan DeVille

[@stoykem]

Regarding the missing radio: It was very common to buy a radio separately - there was a huge market for these. I would say for smaller cars it was more common not to have a radio pre-installed. And of course you would then also add the antenna. So, it's not as bizarre as Doug seems to think.

[@lucky889s9]

The wiring for the antenna is already there, if you pop out the plastic piece. You just need to connect the rod in there

[@BandanazX]

This car is gonna sell for over $10k It's so perfect in its simplicity.

[@kaohsiung99]

almost! It sold for $9,000

[@nelson2503]

Yes Doug, that simplicity is what we used to call driving. You had to listen to and feel the engine's revolutions to shift gears, you had to crank the window knob, you had to manually adjust the seat position and the external rear view mirror. We drove a car. Nowadays the cars drive their occupants.

[@betulaobscura]

Very true!

[@metalheadgamer6666]

Well said.

[@cbbeng]

This was my first car! My dad had originally bought the lowest trim model to commute to the train station. Manual transmission, manual windows, it didn't even come with a radio, we had to add it. It was truly a tank, but I eventually totaled it by off roading in it like a stupid teenager.

[@adildriouech1293]

I wish they could still make cars like this, simple and reliable.

[@thejoshman3843]

someday in the future, somebody will. & they will get innovation awards for doing so.

[@F3udF1st]

The technology doesn't exist anymore. NASA could land on the moon, now SpaceX can't even launch a rocket without blowing up.

[@xprojected]

Reliability was helped by having fewer things that could break. But simple is dead, safety/emissions regulations and demand for tech have changed things.

[@thejoshman3843]

@@xprojected safety/emissions...AKA big government is the problem.

[@VelkePivo]

@@F3udF1stwhat? Who’s going to rescue the stranded astronauts after Boing’s constant failures, you ignoramus?

[@honeytoasty5496]

The switch in the middle of the vents is to choose if you want the air to come out of all 4 vents or just the two middle, not to direct it to windshield. You have the windshield defrost option in directional slider.

[@Mike-rk8px]

I bought a 1986 4-door Civic used in 1992 with 56,000 miles on it, but it had been well maintained. It was fully optioned, but thankfully had a 5-speed transmission. That car was an absolute blast to drive, very quick and the handling was amazing. The overall feeling of that car was quality: everything was very well crafted and solid. I kept it for 8 years and put 275,000 miles on it, it never left me stranded, and all it required was the recommended maintenance. I sold it to buy a new Honda Prelude, and the kid who bought it drove it for another 4 years.

[@Snufkin812]

Real cars! People today will never understand why I love old cars. I was born after 2000 but I am almost obsessed with cars from the 70s-90s and recently I have been fascinated by the 1st-4th generation Civics. Simple and beautiful design, good Japanese quality, many features are manual, what more could you ask for? I always dreamed of having one of these 80s hatchbacks as my first car, but where I live, old cars are rare and hatchbacks are not popular. My father always drove a 90s sedan and I was used to such cars. When I got into a 2010s car driven by someone else, I was shocked by how thick the A-pillars were and how the end of the hood was not visible. The touchscreen on the dashboard was incomprehensible and I couldn't even operate the ventilation system. Honestly, I don't know what car I should buy when I get my driver's license...

[@danielguzman9061]

@@Snufkin812 I think that the best advice (nobody ask but...) about which vehicle will be the first is the one that you can afford and that is in the best possible condition so that your experience is as good as you are thinking instead of being a snowball of problems because it is a vehicle in bad condition. And think about the logic: if you have 10, buy the 7 or 8 and have a reserve of money that allows you to repair any damage or do preventive maintenance.

[@Snufkin812]

@@danielguzman9061 Yes, I have similar views! I have been enjoying looking at used car sites and analyzing cars since I was a teenager, and I have always thought about what would be a reasonable car for me because I have a small budget. I prioritize economy, reliability, cheapness, and good condition in a car. In my country, there are not many brands to choose from, but there are many 12-17 year old cars that I can buy from my neighbors and dealers for under $3,000, and I want a car with an engine of 1.6 or less. (I will drive one car for the rest of my life unless there is a serious accident or breakdown.) For now, I am too young and my lifestyle does not require a car. I will probably need a car in 5-10 years.

[@thebog11]

Buy something with an airbag. I love this Civic but I wouldn't want to use it as a daily driver, it'll crumple like a used Coke can.

[@Snufkin812]

@@thebog11 Yes, old cars are fun and cool, but safety is the only downside. My dad used to drive cars with only one or two airbags, so I can understand the fear. They might be sturdy enough to handle at slow speeds, but I don't want to imagine the consequences of crashing into a big, heavy car like today at high speeds. :( You can prevent accidents as much as possible by not speeding and driving carefully.

[@jimquail6723]

I currently daily drive the 87 hatchback. Best car I have ever owned; I can fit a whole drum kit + two full guitar rigs, with the rear seats down ofc,, And when it's empty, maan there is nothing like driving a slow car fast! It's a real head turner, loads of old, basic, simple fun. + they are super easy to work on and maintain. Cool to see the review, they are becoming quite rare in my area(or in general idk), I have never seen another in person so I love to see any footage of them

[@julienbee3467]

What engine do you have ?

[@markbartlett6287]

Back in '86, a couple of cousins of mine were taking a summer off to see the country in a brand new Civic just like this one. They stopped to hang out with me in Colorado Springs for the day and we drove to the top of Pikes Peak in it. Things really were different then because I was taken by how smooth and modern it was and how easily it did the big climb. Even at 5' 11", I had no trouble riding in the back seat. It was a good, solid, reliable car back when those qualities didn't always apply. I was actually quite envious of my cousin. Seeing one again in this video sure brings home how much things have changed.

[@kwanlinus6999]

Fun Fact: This Honda Civic retailed for less than a comparable Chevy Chevette of the same year. Easy to choose the better option between the two

[@JoeBeaudette]

Facts. But also Chevettes were the shiz 😂 there’s a car I’d love to see Doug review. There must be a bunch still in good shape. Matter fact I know I’ve seen a couple around here in or around Vancouver

[@kwanlinus6999]

@@JoeBeaudette most Chevettes had rusted to very poor shape despite high production numbers, weren't build to last

[@chynacash3138]

I actually bought a brand new 1986 Chevy Chevette when I was a junior in high school for LESS than $5k with barely any negotiation from my father who co-signed for me - These Honda Civic's were only cheaper on paper - They were definitely better cars though.

[@veganpotterthevegan]

That Chevette is the oldest car I remember my dad driving. He gave up his 280zx when my older brother was born. Having kids and giving up that car is probably the biggest mistake he ever made.

[@JoeBeaudette]

@@veganpotterthevegan so you’d rather not have been born so that your dad could drive a Z for a few more years? That’s awfully morbid

[@johnkarl8373]

My dad had this car in the 1990s and I was two at the time. I remember the car very well even at that age. I miss that car a lot to be honest.

[@timhenderson9794]

@johnkarl8373 I'm in the exact same boat lol. Sending to my dad now. I was also 2 or 3. I remember the shifter boot in particular

[@johnkarl8373]

@@timhenderson9794 you as well? Your dad also had that car when you were two?

[@phasaset]

We had the “wagon”. Good times

[@rayyacht4342]

same my daughter. she was 3, now 23. Sometimes she remembers and says she liked that car a lot. Ok - CRX 1991, but still kinda basic. European 124hp DOHC. Hondas became emotional, and the cuetness is visible even in this review's model.

[@bobcantstandzyobitz9778]

I was just thinking about my dad's 88 Dodge Aires. What a piece of garbage, but it lasted him 12 years.

[@ayeco]

I was 13 and we had the base wagon. We installed our own radio, including antenna, drilled holes in the roof for a roof rack! We squeezed a family of 5 into it. We had a second later that had real-time awd.

[@robadams1645]

My very first car was a 1991 Civic CX. That's 2 trim levels above this car. I LOVED that car. It was fun, practical, and reliable. It's still on the road. I see it every once in a while.

[@BlakeMcCringleberry]

The "hearing and feeling" of the manual transmission is still how I drive manuals, even if there is a tach on the dash. The tach is mostly a vanity item in most cars for most drivers who aren't going to be taking their car over 3500rpm anyway, and looking down to know when to shift isn't especially safe while driving at speeds where it matters.

[@robadams1645]

The bizarre thing is, they put tachs in automatic cars. What a waste of space.

[@Biebs74]

​@@robadams1645 I bought a Neon brand new in 2000, 5 spd manual, no tach. A friend had an auto, same year and it had a tach, so ridiculous.

[@mikedelape6609]

@@robadams1645waste of space? so my tach on my new corvette Z06 is a waste?? ohhhh i see

[@robadams1645]

@@mikedelape6609 If it's an automatic, what do you use the tach for? If it's not an automatic, you misread my comment.

[@bwofficial1776]

I'm the same. The car tells me when it wants to be shifted. In my car, I know what speed I can go in each gear and how much gas it takes. It doesn't have a tach and if it did it would be hidden behind the wheel.

[@scedge]

My first car was a 1982 Honda Civic 2 door hatchback and this video takes me back to my little blue "smurf." It wasn't fast on the Interstate, but it was quick around town. Simple, easy to drive, reliable, and inexpensive. I paid $1000 for one in 1992.

[@HobbyTimeSeattle]

I love my old red 1987 Civic Si. I still own it.

[@chynacash3138]

Wow my first car was a bright red 86 Chevy Chevette when I was a junior in high school and these Honda Civics looked futuristic by comparison 😂I remember they both had similar sticker prices when I was shopping for new cars but I ended up financing the Chevette for around $4,800 out the door which was ALOT cheaper than the new Civic back then especially for a 17 year old on a Burger King salary lol - My Chevette actually had an AM/FM radio, passenger mirror, and automatic transmission but I couldn't afford one with the optional A/C or power steering 😭

[@berriereijs8509]

This is great. Doug needs to realize that there really was (and still is) a market for this kind of cars. I own a Suzuki Alto from 2002, and me and my sons really love it. Suzuki chose 'Maruti' as the name for the US I think. It's a fantasticly simple car, 60 horsepower and absolutely no luxury. It had an antenna though, but it broke off :-( It even had aproximately the same mileage when I bought it. There's is nothing electrically operated on it so it's super reliable and till this day has never let me down... Please keep doing quirky cars Doug and not the latest 2024 models... I'll even put up with your cupholder and turn signal fetish. 😍 Greetings from the Netherlands

[@michiganborn8303]

These are the types of vehicles I love that Doug reviews because these are everyday (were) vehicles that everyday people drive/drove. I can't recognize driving a $500k Ford GT.

[@mikedelape6609]

then you need too figure out how too make more money if you cant recognize driving anything expensive

[@michiganborn8303]

@mikedelape6609 Apparently you're using too in the wrong context doesn't mean you make a lot of money. To Too & Two. Guess which one is the correct one and at this point it would be a 50/50 guess.

[@ringtone6000]

I would love to see more videos with this type of “simpler” and “normal” cars from the past! This is such a joy!

[@nikkitronic80]

My dad has a 1990 Honda civic hatchback in red. It is glorious! He is original owner and a car guy so it is very VERY well taken care of. It looks mostly new. I was 10 years old when he brought it home brand new. I very much remember riding around in dads tiny shiny new red car. So fun! He says that every single time he takes it out for a drive these days, he gets lots of looks and attention and always at least one offer to buy.. though he has no interest in selling. I would love to inherit some day… now I just need to learn stick lolololol Great video! Super cool blast from my childhood

[@livelong6685]

AND THIS is why i love his channel,

[@charlesyoung9980]

Still better than a brand-new Mitsubishi Mirage!!

[@jpm5958]

I had this car a few years later. 1990 Civic hatch with no radio, no air, roll up windows and a stick shift. The thing ran forever. Now I'm rocking a super fancy 2009 Honda Fit Sport lol. It does have a radio/cd, air, power windows, remote locks - luxury car by comparison!

[@moonraker09]

19:02 did they crash?

[@VPMore]

@@moonraker09 no, the second car was coming up from the bent road ahead

[@WakanaGojo86]

😂😂

[@325xitgrocgetter]

Three point seatbelts were on the market in 1974...timed with the seatbelt interlock rule that automobiles sold in the US had to follow...you had to buckle your seatbelt before the car would start...so much hue and cry was the result and the interlock law was removed for the following model year. Three point belts for front passengers remained since that time...though there were variations of passive shoulder belts in the later 80s to the mid 90s until airbags were mandated. .. Three point belts were mandated for rear passengers in 1989 or so....though some of the higher end German cars had them before then. The CHMSL or Center High Mounted Stop Lamp was mandated for the 1986 model year. This generation of Civic was introduced in 1984...many cars predated the CHMSL mandate so they looked like tacked on afterthoughts. The Olds Toronado did have a variation of high mounted stop lamps in the 1970s..... Older Gen X person here who got his license in 1981...so I learned how to drive during the height of the Malaise era.

[@splewy]

What’s really amazing is how much the Civic advanced in just the 20 years from 1986-2006. I had a low trim (LX) 2006 Civic. It had more than double the horsepower (140hp), a 5 speed manual, 6 airbags, power everything, air conditioning, a 6 speaker radio/cd player, cruise control and 16 inch wheels.

[@piggy310]

You're talking about their most basic car from 86 though, I had a 1987 Honda Accord that looked like a Lexus compared to this Civic

[@splewy]

@@piggy310 No, I’m talking about the same car, almost the same trim, 20 years apart. Read my comment again.

[@piggy310]

@@splewy LX is not the low trim though.

[@splewy]

@@piggy310 it was basically the lowest trim. Yes technically the DX was lower, but the only thing the LX really added was painted mirrors and door handles.

[@rjcolombe]

I LOVE when Doug does videos on everyday vehicles.

[@istimamrian5300]

5:23 "plugged the hole"

[@ujjvallal9909]

☠️

[@jerryrocketandthegogogirls3517]

8:56 my 1996 Tacoma doesn’t even have a mirror adjustment switch, you have to roll down the windows, stick your arm out and manually move the mirror around until it’s where you want it.

[@Spykerswizzy]

Honda still had the optional side mirror until 1991 in Canada iirc. I had an aunt who was a big Honda fan and every car she got at the dealer she asked they throw in the passenger side mirror, radio antenna , floor mats and a tank of gas no cost

[@stephenj4937]

And no government regulations actually require a passenger side mirror, so long as you have a back glass and rear-view mirror.

[@Luigibro-ti5wh]

It's a covet!!

[@TheIdiotRSV]

Le covet

[@josephj807]

True lol😂

[@TheIdiotRSV]

@@josephj807I commented while playing beamng

[@slocarfr]

the covet is a little more the 88-91 civic, but still similar!

[@TheIdiotRSV]

@@slocarfryes,i have ‘86 covet one cuz mods

[@melted_pistons]

The drivers seat really shows that no matter how obscenely low mileage, no matter how well its preserved, conditioning your materials is important. Vinyl needs conditioned just as leather does