Are Honda Del Sol rare?
The Honda del Sol, a sporty two-seater convertible, has become a topic of interest for car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Known for its unique design and removable targa top, the del Sol was produced by Honda from 1992 to 1998. But just how rare is this iconic vehicle today? Let’s dive into its history, production numbers, and current availability to answer this question.
A Brief History of the Honda del Sol
The Honda del Sol was introduced as a successor to the Honda CR-X and was part of the Civic lineup. Its name, "del Sol," translates to "of the sun" in Spanish, highlighting its open-top design. The car was marketed as a fun, affordable, and stylish option for drivers who wanted a compact convertible with Honda's renowned reliability.
During its production run, the del Sol was available in several trims, including the base S, the mid-range Si, and the performance-oriented VTEC model. It featured a removable targa roof panel, which could be stored in the trunk, giving drivers the flexibility of an open-air driving experience without the full commitment of a convertible.
Production Numbers and Rarity
While the Honda del Sol was popular during its production years, it was not produced in massive quantities compared to other Honda models. Production numbers varied by region and model year, but overall, the del Sol was a niche vehicle. This limited production contributes to its relative rarity today, especially for well-maintained examples.
Additionally, the passage of time has further reduced the number of del Sols on the road. Factors such as accidents, wear and tear, and neglect have led to a decline in the availability of these cars. Finding a Honda del Sol in good condition, particularly the sought-after VTEC trim, can be a challenge, making it a rare find for collectors and enthusiasts.
Why the Honda del Sol Stands Out
The Honda del Sol's rarity is not just about production numbers. Several factors make it a standout vehicle:
- Unique Design: The targa top and compact size give the del Sol a distinctive look and feel.
- Performance Options: The VTEC model, with its high-revving engine, offers an exciting driving experience.
- Collector Appeal: As a 1990s icon, the del Sol has gained a nostalgic following among car enthusiasts.
- Durability: Like most Hondas, the del Sol is known for its reliability, making it a practical classic car.
Current Market Availability
Today, the Honda del Sol is considered a rare find, especially in pristine condition. Enthusiasts looking to purchase one may need to search extensively through online marketplaces, car auctions, and enthusiast forums. Prices can vary widely depending on the car's condition, mileage, and trim level, with well-preserved VTEC models commanding a premium.
For those lucky enough to own or find a Honda del Sol, it represents a piece of automotive history that combines fun, style, and practicality. Its rarity only adds to its charm, making it a cherished vehicle among fans of 1990s Japanese cars.
Conclusion
While the Honda del Sol may not be as common as other Honda models, its unique features and limited production have cemented its status as a rare and desirable car. Whether you're a collector or simply an admirer of this quirky convertible, the del Sol remains a shining example of Honda's innovative spirit during the 1990s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Hondas hold their value?
Honda Models with Exceptional Resale Value
The Honda Accord, Civic, and CR-V are highly praised for their value retention, and thus, their resale value. They consistently outperform competitors in their respective categories, solidifying their status as used auto stars.
Why did the Del Sol fail?
Many owners also complained about the interior's low quality materials. As a typical Japanese car from that era, the Del Sol featured a pretty simple cabin design, but the car also lacked the gadgets from its time period.
Which car is rarer?
The Ferrari Testarossa Spider and Bugatti La Voiture Noire only have one unit each. Other rare cars include the McLaren F1 LM, Ferrari 250 GTO, and Lamborghini Veneno.
How much does a Honda Del Sol go for?
A: The average price of a Honda Del Sol is $10,610. Q: When was the Honda Del Sol produced? A: The Honda Del Sol was sold for model years 1992 to 1998.
What is the rarest Honda Del Sol?
The rarest Del Sol is the 1997 model, which saw just 5,603 units sold in the U.S.
What is the most stolen Honda?
Honda Accord
| Most stolen cars from 2010-2020 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Rank | Most stolen vehicle | Number of thefts |
| 1 | Honda Accord | 513,025 |
| 2 | Honda Civic | 471,327 |
| 3 | Ford Pickups (Full-Size) | 337,287 |
How reliable are del sols?
The Del Sol is also a extremely reliable and fun car to drive, fantastic gas mileage and has impressive leg room and trunk space (when the top is in place, that is) Every used car has issues and the Del Sol is no exception. I'm going to list these issues and what a buyer can expect when buying a Del Sol today.
Which Honda is rare?
The rarest Honda NSX ever built
But just how rare was the Honda NSX-R GT? Extremely rare. In fact, there were only five copies ever produced by the Japanese automaker, but Honda never intended to mass produce it for the public.
What was the last year they made the Honda Del Sol?
1997
1997 was the final year of production for the del Sol in North America.
Why did Honda stop making Del Sol?
Why Did Honda Stop Making the Del Sol? Although it was a unique vehicle, the Del Sol sought to take on the Mazda Miata, which had a devout following . In its first two years, the Del Sol sold very well (even beating the Miata in its inaugural year), but rumors of leaky targa tops soon began to circulate.
