Seeking to create a “high-quality car representing 1980s values,” Honda implemented the first full model change of the Civic in seven years, resulting in enhanced economy, interior comfort and driving performance. This led to the development in 1980 of the CVCC-II engine, which delivered improved combustion efficiency. In 1981, Honda rolled out the Civic Country station wagon and the Civic 4-Door Sedan, featuring a Hondamatic transmission with overhead drive, front-wheel drive and notchback styl… Continue

Following the original two-door and three-door Civic models, the Company expanded its lineup with the Hondamatic (variable-speed automatic) and Civic CVCC in 1973. These were complemented in 1974 by the sporty Civic RS, with a twin-cab engine, and the Civic Van, a practical, commercial-use vehicle. For three consecutive years—from 1972 to 1974—Civic was awarded “Car of the Year Japan.“ Overseas, as well, the Civic CVCC earned high acclaim in the United States. In 1973, the Civic ranked third in… Continue

In 1970 the U.S. Clean air act was passed. At the time it was thought to be an impossible standard. The car industry was given five years to comply and so far no one had broken the barrier.

The Civic CVCC launched in the U.S. in 1974 being the only car to meet the standards and setting the industry bar.

Racing was what Honda would utilize to become this industry standard. They attempted to take some of their many racing accomplishments and put them to work in the everyday person's vehicle. The… Continue

Japan was urbanizing. Economic BOOM across the board was the climate. The year was 1970. In 1972 they would host the Olympic games in Sapporo. Events, including Olympic preparation, led Japan to vastly expand its efforts in building an infrastructure. Taking the forefront in this expansion was the production of the automobile, becoming the number 2 producer of Autos in the world. The design of the first generation CIVC was a result of problems produced by this era of Japan's history. The problem… Continue