How much did the original Honda Civic cost?
The original Honda Civic cost about $1,995 in 1973 when it first arrived in the United States.
Launched in Japan a year earlier and designed to balance economy with practical everyday use, the Civic was Honda’s answer to a growing demand for affordable, fuel-efficient cars during a period of rising energy prices. While the U.S. price served as a benchmark, prices varied by market and trim level around the world.
U.S. pricing at launch
Inflation-adjusted perspective
When adjusted for inflation, the 1973 price translates to roughly $12,000–$13,000 in today’s money, depending on the specific inflation measure used. That context helps readers understand just how affordable the Civic was relative to typical new-car prices decades ago.
Global pricing snapshot
Outside the United States, Civic pricing varied by country, tax, and equipment levels. The model was marketed as an accessible compact around the world, helping Honda establish a reputation for value and efficiency in multiple markets.
Summary
The original Honda Civic launched in the U.S. at about $1,995 in 1973. Variations by trim and region existed, and when adjusted for inflation, that price equates to roughly $12,000–$13,000 in contemporary dollars. The Civic’s affordable pricing helped define a new standard for compact, fuel-efficient cars in the 1970s and beyond.
How much was a Honda Civic in 1973?
The 1973 Honda Civic was a humble but capable machine, and it sold for the bargain price of $2,150. That's just $15,027 in 2024 dollars, which would easily make the 1973 Civic the cheapest car on sale today.
How much did a Honda Civic cost in 1976?
Go back eight more years, however, and you'd have found that the 1976 Civic two-door sedan with four-speed manual transmission was the most affordable new car you could get ($2,729, or about $15,421 in 2024 dollars).
How much did a Honda Civic cost in 1995?
The price for a 1995 Honda Civic varies significantly, but generally ranges from approximately $1,000 to $6,000 for a used vehicle, with some exceptional or restored models potentially fetching higher prices. Factors like the trim (e.g., DX, LX, EX), mileage, condition, and maintenance history all play a major role in determining the final cost.
Price range by source
- Edmunds: Reports a value of approximately $798 to $5,650.
- Kelley Blue Book: Lists the national average fair purchase price for a 1995 Civic DX Sedan as $1,859, with other trims ranging slightly higher.
- J.D. Power: Provides a value range of approximately $1,275 (Low Retail) to $3,350 (Average Retail) for a 1995 Civic EX Coupe, depending on condition.
- Classic.com: Notes a sale price of $4,000 for a 1995 Civic CX model.
Factors influencing the price
- Trim level: Higher-end trims like the EX generally have higher market values than base models like the DX or CX.
- Condition: A well-maintained or restored Civic can command a much higher price than one with visible wear or damage.
- Mileage: Lower mileage vehicles are typically more expensive.
- Maintenance history: A vehicle with a complete and professional service history will be worth more than one without.
How much did a Honda Civic cost in 1984?
Price
| Style | Invoice | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| 2dr Hatchback | $0 | $5,423 |
| 4dr Sedan | $0 | $7,273 |
| 4dr Wagon | $0 | $7,173 |
| DX 2dr Hatchback | $0 | $6,473 |
