DuelsLeaderboardGarageBlogCarsGlossaryBrowse

Honda CR-X

Honda

Honda CR-X: Honda's lightweight, two-seat sport hatchback. Three generations from 1983 to 1991, with the Si variant becomi
Photo: \u97cb\u99c4\u5929\u72d7 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

Honda's lightweight, two-seat sport hatchback. Three generations from 1983 to 1991, with the Si variant becoming a defining canyon weapon.

The Honda CR-X (originally Civic CR-X, sometimes written Honda CRX) is a small two-seat sport hatchback produced from 1983 to 1991 across two generations (with a third generation Del Sol from 1992-1997). The CR-X was Honda lightweight performance answer for the 1980s, weighing under 2,200 pounds and making 100-130 horsepower depending on variant. The first-generation CR-X (1983-1987) was based on the third-generation Civic platform. Two trims existed: the standard CR-X (with the lightweight focus) and the Si (Sport Injection) with fuel injection and slightly more power. The second-generation CR-X (1988-1991) was based on the fourth-generation Civic. The Si trim of this era used the D16A6 engine making 105 horsepower, with the chassis tuned for canyon and autocross performance. The CR-X became a defining canyon weapon of the late 1980s for West Coast enthusiasts. The combination of light weight, balanced chassis, and rev-happy Honda four-cylinder made it ideal for spirited mountain driving. The car also became a popular drag racing platform, with various engine swaps and forced induction extending the platform performance ceiling significantly. The Del Sol (1992-1997) replaced the CR-X but with a removable Targa-style roof rather than a hatchback. The Del Sol was less successful than the original CR-X and is generally considered a less focused product despite its name connection. On WhipJury, CR-X submissions are common, particularly the second-generation Si and various JDM imports (CR-X SiR with B16A engines). The cars have become cult classics with a dedicated owner community.

The CR-X generations

First-generation (1983-1987). Based on third-generation Civic platform. Three trims (basic CR-X, HF for fuel economy, Si with fuel injection). The Si is the performance-focused variant.

Second-generation (1988-1991). Based on fourth-generation Civic platform. The breakthrough generation. Si variant uses D16A6 engine making 105 horsepower (slightly more in JDM Si variants).

Del Sol (1992-1997). Replaced CR-X with Targa-roof concept. Different character; generally less respected than original CR-X.

The Si chassis

The CR-X Si chassis was light and balanced. Double-wishbone suspension front, multilink rear. Curb weight around 2,200 pounds. The combination of light weight and the rev-happy D16A6 engine produced exceptional acceleration relative to the engine output. The chassis has been the foundation for countless modified builds, including B-series and K-series engine swaps.

CR-X on WhipJury

Second-generation Si submissions are most common. JDM CR-X SiR cars (with B16A engines) appear regularly. Modified builds with engine swaps, suspension upgrades, and OEM-plus styling are popular. The cars have a dedicated owner community that values both authenticity and creative modification.

Frequently asked questions about Honda CR-X

Why was the CR-X discontinued?
The 1991 CR-X was the last; it was replaced by the Del Sol (1992-1997) for the next generation. The Del Sol attempted a different formula (Targa roof, removable roof concept) and was generally less successful. Honda decided to focus on the Civic platform instead of dedicated two-seat sport hatchbacks; no successor to the original CR-X concept has been produced.
Was the CR-X really fast?
Stock CR-X Si: 0-60 in around 7-8 seconds depending on year. Top speed around 120 mph. By modern standards, slow. By 1980s standards, the Si was competitive with sport coupes much more expensive. Modified CR-X cars (especially with B-series swaps) can be very fast; the chassis is often the limiting factor on power.
Are CR-X cars valuable now?
Increasingly. Project CR-Xs: $5,000-$15,000. Driver-quality cars: $15,000-$25,000. Clean low-mile cars: $25,000-$40,000+. Limited variants and JDM imports are higher. The CR-X has become a recognized future classic, and pricing has been steadily climbing.
Are CR-X chassis good for engine swaps?
Yes, very. The lightweight chassis and small engine bay accommodate B-series and K-series engines naturally. B16A2, B18C1, B18C5, K20A2, and K24 swaps have all been done in CR-X chassis. The combination of swap engine and lightweight CR-X chassis produces exceptional power-to-weight ratios.
Is the Del Sol a real CR-X?
Officially yes (Honda named it Civic Del Sol or CR-X Del Sol depending on market and year). Stylistically and philosophically, the Del Sol is different. The Targa roof, less aggressive chassis tuning, and focus on convertible-style driving distinguish it from the original CR-X. Most enthusiasts consider the original CR-X (1983-1991) the defining CR-X; the Del Sol is a related but distinct car.

Other Honda models

AccordBeatCityCivicCivic SiCivic Type RCR-VCR-ZDel SoleElementFit
More Honda models