How many miles per gallon does a 1987 Honda CRX get?
Most 1987 Honda CRX models achieve roughly 40-45 miles per gallon on the highway and about 35-40 mpg in city driving, with the HF economy model typically at the high end of that range.
The 1987 CRX was a lightweight two-seat hatchback designed for efficiency as well as sportier driving dynamics. Fuel economy varies by trim and transmission, and real-world results depend on maintenance, driving style, and conditions. This article summarizes typical EPA-era figures for the U.S. market and provides context for what owners and historians note about these classic cars.
EPA-era figures by trim and transmission
EPA-era fuel economy figures varied by trim and transmission. The following ranges reflect common numbers reported for the U.S.-market 1987 CRX, illustrating how the HF model differed from the base DX.
- CRX HF (high fuel economy version, usually 1.5 L with a 5-speed manual): Highway around 50-53 mpg; city around 33-38 mpg; combined around 42-46 mpg.
- CRX DX (base model, 1.5 L with either manual or automatic): Highway around 40-45 mpg; city around 34-40 mpg; combined around 37-41 mpg.
In practice, real-world mileage could diverge from these figures due to maintenance, tire condition and pressure, driving habits, and aftermarket modifications. The HF trim consistently offered the best highway efficiency, while city driving typically reduced the mpg advantage across trims.
What affects mpg in a vintage CRX?
Several factors can significantly influence miles-per-gallon in a 1987 Honda CRX. Understanding them helps explain why two cars from the same year can show different numbers.
- Maintenance and tune-ups: A well-tuned engine, clean air filters, and correctly functioning ignition systems improve efficiency.
- Tire pressure and condition: Properly inflated, low-rolling-resistance tires maximize mpg; worn or underinflated tires reduce it.
- Fuel system and compression: Fresh fuel injectors or carburetion (depending on market) and good compression help maintain efficient combustion.
- Driving style: Gentle acceleration, steady speeds, and minimizing heavy braking boost real-world mpg, especially on highway sections.
- Weight and aerodynamics: Removing excess weight and ensuring clean underbody airflow improves highway efficiency.
Practical steps to maximize mileage include regular maintenance, keeping tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure, and adopting smooth driving habits. For a vintage car, achieving the best possible mpg often depends as much on upkeep and driving technique as on the original factory ratings.
Summary
In short, a 1987 Honda CRX typically delivers around 40-45 mpg on highways and 35-40 mpg in city driving, with the HF economy model generally pushing toward the higher end of those ranges. Real-world results vary, but the CRX’s lightweight design and efficient 1.5-liter engine earned it a reputation for solid fuel economy for its era. Proper maintenance and mindful driving can help you realize close to those numbers today.
Conclusion
For anyone restoring or maintaining a 1987 CRX, understanding the trim-specific expectations and focusing on upkeep will give the most accurate picture of current fuel economy. The car’s legacy as an efficient, compact hatchback remains a key part of its appeal, even decades later.
