How much does a 1973 Honda Civic weight?
The 1973 Honda Civic weighed roughly 1,600–1,800 pounds (725–820 kg), with exact figures varying by body style and market.
In this report, we explain the factors behind that weight, how different configurations affected curb weight, and what collectors and restorers typically encounter in period literature and modern databases. The first-generation Civic was designed to be exceptionally lightweight for fuel efficiency, and even small changes in equipment — CVCC tech, air conditioning, power steering, or an automatic transmission — could shift the scale by a noticeable margin.
Weight determinants: body style, market, and equipment
The weight of a 1973 Civic did not come from a single standard figure. Instead, it varied according to several key factors. The following list outlines the main influences on curb weight for this model year.
- Body style — The Civic was offered in multiple configurations (including sedan and hatchback variants), and the construction details of each body style affected overall mass.
- Market/region — Cars sold in Japan, North America, and Europe often carried different bumpers, interior options, and emission-control equipment, resulting in small but consistent weight differences.
- Engine and equipment — The CVCC engine setup, plus optional features such as air conditioning, power steering, or an automatic transmission, added weight compared with a bare-bones manual-spec car.
In practice, these factors kept the Civic’s curb weight within a relatively tight band for the era, even as individual configurations shifted a few tens of pounds.
Typical weights for common configurations (approximate)
The following range summarizes weight figures commonly cited by enthusiasts, brochures, and historical databases for first-generation Civics around the 1973 model year. Exact numbers vary by market and production year, so these should be taken as guidance rather than precise specs.
- General curb weight range for the 1973 Civic across markets: about 725–820 kg (1,600–1,800 lb).
These figures are approximate and depend on the specific trim, equipment, and regional specifications. For precise numbers, consult original factory brochures, dealer literature, or archived service manuals for the exact model and year.
Notes for collectors and restorers
When evaluating a 1973 Civic for a restoration or valuation, check the vehicle’s VIN, production date, and the specific equipment list (CVCC configuration, presence of air conditioning, power steering, or an automatic transmission) to narrow down the weight range. Small differences in equipment can shift the curb weight by several pounds, which may matter for alignment, ride height, and original-spec verification.
Summary
In short, a 1973 Honda Civic generally weighed between 1,600 and 1,800 pounds, with variations driven by body style, market, and equipment. For precise figures, rely on period brochures or the car’s original documentation. The weight reflects Honda’s emphasis on lightweight engineering and fuel efficiency during the early 1970s, a hallmark of the Civic’s enduring appeal.
