1993-1995 Honda Civic
History
Honda entered to the local scene in 1991 through their EF Civic. It battled it out with old rivals from Mitsubishi, Nissan, and Toyota as well as from Kia, Fiat, Daihatsu, and Daewoo. Almost years later, Honda captured the top spot when it comes to passenger car sales. A feat which a new entrant had done in a few years.
Together with the hatchback that I featured nearly a year ago, it was launched to the Japanese market in September 1991. Available in a myriad of engines of varying displacements that can be paired to a sedan, hatchback, and coupe body styles. The same items applicable to the sedan have been said in the hatchback review.
March 1993 saw the introduction of the Civic sedan, 11 months later after the hatchback. Unlike the two door version which participated in the People's Car Category (or Class One), the sedan entered the general Class Two that battled various rivals from Japan. Just like the hatch, it became a favorite of tuners and modifiers due to its unlimited possibilities of tuning. November 1995 saw the introduction of the EK Civic which sold more and a vastly better product. You can buy one back then in either LX or ESi trim levels.
Value and Costs
With age, Civic EG prices have been falling but not below the six digit figures, which the other three rivals had done. From P105,000 to P150,000, one can get a Civic sedan in varying state of condition. Do remember a stock unit in good condition is a better buy than something beat up and carrying a cheap price.
Unlike the Accord, parts are common but slightly expensive than a Corolla Big Body or Lancer Itlog of the same time. Choosing the EFi engine is a much better choice than the carburetor, especially the Civic was the only vehicle in the line-up to have that type of engine. One main problem of the vehicle are body problems that mainly involves rust which affected this generation. If you'll be buying one for personal usage, modified units are a big no-no.
Exterior and Interior
Just like its hatchback sibling, it has some curved lines which makes it a standout. The front makes a low hoodline, thanks to the headlamps.
In contrast to the economy focused hatch, there are touches of fabric upholstery and, at least on the ESi model, available power amenities like power mirrors and power windows. Space is decent enough for four people while do not expect niceties (such as airbags) since the interior is devoid of them.
Engine
A good thing is you get to choose between two engines whose fuel distribution system are through a carbureted system or EFi. The first engine available is a carbureted D15B2 1,493cc which gives out 92hp at 6,000rpm and 119Nm at 4,700rpm. This engine offers nothing significant when it comes to performance but gives you cheaper costs of maintenance. The one to get is the D16Z9 1,590cc carrying 130hp at 6,600rpm and 144Nm at 4,200rpm especially it is fast in terms of acceleration. No VTEC technology present here but you get that smile on your face.
Driving Impressions
Thanks to its close gear ratios and light steering, this is one fun to drive machine. You would want to cherish every moment behind the wheel, engine choice notwithstanding. No suspension modifications, please, since it tends to spoil the driving fun and cutting the stock suspension is one dangerous attempt since it will endanger you and your passengers.
Verdict
There is a reason why this car sold well and still a sought after in the second hand market. The Civic EG Sedan is a fun to drive vehicle but with the influx of more practical rivals, we'd give them a second look especially they are friendly to the pocket to own and maintain. We admit, the Honda is a rocket pocket which is marred with aging problems.
The Good:
- Fast with the 1.6
- Reliable
- Classic looks
The Bad:
- No safety kit
- Bare
- Rust problems
The Pick: 1.6 ESi
THE SPECS
Engines: 1,493cc D15B2 and 1,590cc D16Z9 4-cylinder gasoline
Power: 92hp @ 6,000rpm (1.5), 130hp @ 6,600rpm (1.6)
Torque: 119Nm @ 4,700rpm (1.5), 144Nm @ 4,200rpm (1.6)
Fuel Consumption: 8-11km/L (city), 10-12km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies, stock engine)
Transmission: 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic
Suspension: Front and rear independent double wishbone
MORE INFO
Price (New): P350,000-P450,000
Price (Now): P105,000-P150,000
Rivals: Mitsubishi Lancer, Nissan Sentra, Toyota Corolla
On Sale: 1993-1995
Resources:
Contacts:
Mel Casaba (Honda Parts Specialist) - (02) 478-3055/0999 9295155
Photos from: http://sulit.com.ph/33815179
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