Honda Civic
The compact front-wheel-drive car introduced in 1972 that became one of Honda's principal global model lines.
Overview
Honda introduced the Civic in Japan in July 1972, initially as a compact two-door car; a three-door hatchback followed soon afterwards. Its transversely mounted engine, front-wheel drive and wheels pushed towards the corners created a space-efficient layout at a time when many small Japanese cars still used rear-wheel drive.
Early Civics used a water-cooled 1.2-litre inline-four and independent suspension. The range expanded with additional body styles and the sporty Civic RS. Most significant for export markets was Honda’s Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion engine, better known as CVCC, which enabled the Civic to meet strict American emissions limits without relying on a catalytic converter.
The Civic arrived during the fuel and emissions concerns of the 1970s. Its economical dimensions and engine technology helped Honda establish a lasting presence in overseas car markets, and the name continued through hatchbacks, saloons, estates, coupes and performance derivatives.
Generations
First generation (1972–1979)
The original Civic established the model’s front-engine, front-wheel-drive format. Two- and three-door cars were joined by a larger four-door and a five-door van or estate derivative, while engine and trim choices broadened during the model’s seven-year production life.
Later generation records will be added as the catalogue develops.