How fast is the Honda CRX?
In stock form, the fastest common CRX variants reach roughly 140–145 mph (225–235 km/h) with 0-60 mph times near 7–9 seconds, depending on trim and market. Slower, earlier-base models typically run about 100–110 mph with 0-60 times around 12–14 seconds. Real-world speed varies with year, model, transmission, tires, and condition.
Variant-by-variant speed (stock configurations)
Below is a concise reference to typical factory performance by trim and market.
- CR-X DX/Standard (1.3L engine): 0-60 mph roughly 12–14 seconds; top speed about 105–110 mph (170–177 km/h). Horsepower typically around 60–70 hp, depending on year.
- CR-X Si (1.6L DOHC 16V, US market): 0-60 mph roughly 8.5–9.5 seconds; top speed about 125 mph (201 km/h). horsepower around 105–108 hp in older US-spec versions.
- CR-X SiR / VTEC (1.6L DOHC VTEC, primarily JDM): 0-60 mph roughly 7.0–8.0 seconds; top speed around 230 km/h (143 mph). horsepower around 160 PS (roughly 157–165 hp) depending on year and market.
Note: These figures reflect stock, unmodified cars. Transmission type (manual vs. automatic), tire choice, weight variations, and wear can shift times and top speeds. Weekend-warrior tuners often push well beyond factory numbers, especially with VTEC engines and performance tires.
What influences the numbers?
Several factors determine how fast a CRX actually feels on the road. The most significant include engine version and condition, transmission type, vehicle weight, gear ratios, and tires. The lightweight DX and certain Si/SiR variants benefit from lower curb weight and more aggressive gearing, while road conditions and driver experience also play crucial roles in 0-60 times and top speed.
Key considerations for enthusiasts
When evaluating performance numbers, consider the year-specific engine setup (D-series vs. B-series with VTEC), whether the car is a US or JDM market example, and any aftermarket modifications that can alter acceleration and top-end speed. Factory claims are a baseline; real-world performance depends on maintenance, alignment, and the condition of the drivetrain.
Summary
The Honda CRX offers a spectrum of speeds across its generations: entry-level 1.3L models are the slowest in the lineup, typically around 100–110 mph with 0-60 times near a dozen seconds. The 1.6L Si improves to about 125 mph and roughly 9-second 0-60s in stock form. The top-end performers are the JDM VTEC variants, which can approach 140+ mph with sub-8-second 0-60 times. Overall, speed varies significantly by year, trim, and market, with plenty of room for improvement through careful tuning and maintenance.
Summary takeaway: the CRX spans a range from everyday practicality to early-90s pocket performance, and the most capable versions rival many modern subcompact sport coupes in terms of acceleration and top speed—especially when stock specifications are pushed to their limits.
