How much is a Honda 1990?
Prices for a 1990 Honda vary widely by model, trim, condition, and originality. In general, expect a broad range—from a few thousand dollars for well-worn daily drivers to six-figure sums for rare collectibles like the NSX.
To understand the market, it helps to separate the question by model, evaluate factors that push values up or down, and note how regional demand shapes what buyers pay. The following guide provides a snapshot of typical price ranges as of the mid-2020s, with practical buying tips to help you assess listings and auctions.
What affects the price
The following factors commonly influence what a 1990 Honda sells for in today’s market.
- Model and trim level (Civic, Accord, CRX, Prelude, NSX, etc.)
- Overall condition and originality (stock parts, rust, mechanical health)
- Mileage and wear, including maintenance history
- Documentation, service records, and prior ownership history
- Number of owners and title status (clear, salvage, rebuilt)
- Modifications and aftermarket parts (can either raise or lower value depending on buyer)
- Color, rarity, and desirability of the specific variant
- Geographic location and local market demand
Prices tend to rise with meticulous maintenance, verifiable service history, and originality, while high mileage or incomplete records typically depress value. Regional demand—urban vs. rural, for example—also shapes what listings fetch.
Typical price ranges by model for a 1990 Honda
These ranges reflect current listings and auction results for common 1990 Honda models. They are intended as rough benchmarks; exact prices vary by condition, locale, and how a given car has been cared for.
- Honda Civic (4th generation, 1987–1991; hatchback/coupe): roughly $3,000–$7,000, with well-preserved examples reaching $8,000–$12,000 in favorable markets.
- Honda Accord (1989–1993; third generation): roughly $2,500–$8,000, with cleaner cars sometimes approaching $9,000.
- Honda CRX (1983–1991; including CRX base and Si variants): roughly $3,000–$10,000; CRX Si or exceptionally clean examples can push higher, toward $12,000.
- Honda Prelude (1988–1991; third generation): roughly $2,500–$6,500, depending on condition and maintenance history.
- Honda NSX (1990; the elite collectible in the lineup): typically $120,000–$180,000, with pristine, low-mileage, well-documented examples sometimes exceeding that range.
These ranges illustrate the broad spectrum on the market. If you’re shopping, expect a mid-range car in average condition to fall toward the lower end of the band, while a show-quality original or a low-mileage example can command a premium.
Notable rare models and collectibles
Beyond the everyday classics, a few 1990 Hondas sit in a different pricing tier due to rarity, performance significance, or collector interest.
- Acura/Honda NSX (1990): The standout is the NSX, which has moved into a high-end auction and dealership segment. Availability is limited, and prices reflect mileage, history, and condition.
In the collector market, the NSX’s value is driven by factors such as originality, documented service history, and whether it has matching numbers and stock components. Always check provenance and maintenance records when assessing a high-priced example.
NSX-specific price drivers
Among NSX listings, mileage, accident history, and whether recent maintenance has been performed by reputable shops heavily influence price. Strong, well-documented cars with clean titles typically command premium over higher-mileage or heavily modified specimens.
As with any collectible, prices can swing based on auction dynamics, upcoming nostalgia cycles, and regional demand. Potential buyers should calibrate expectations against local inventory and recent sale prices.
Buying tips for a 1990 Honda
Before bidding or negotiating, consider these practical steps to improve your odds of a fair deal.
- Request a full maintenance log and verify core items (timing belt/chain, water pump, brakes, cooling system).
- Inspect for rust, frame damage, and signs of body repair; pay attention to undercarriage and rockers.
- Check for rust in known trouble spots and verify body panels’ alignment with VIN and title history.
- Take the car for a professional mechanical inspection and consider a pre-purchase appraisal for older/high-value models like the NSX.
- Check for authentic documentation, original parts, and any aftermarket modifications that could affect value.
- Compare multiple listings to gauge market heat in your area and learn typical asking prices.
Armed with documentation and a careful inspection, buyers can avoid overpaying and identify cars that represent solid long-term value.
Summary
A 1990 Honda carries a price tag that ranges from a few thousand dollars for everyday, higher-mileage examples to six figures for rare, pristine collectors’ units such as the NSX. The exact price hinges on model, condition, mileage, originality, and local market demand. For buyers, the path to a fair deal lies in diligence—demand maintenance records, inspect for rust and mechanical health, and compare multiple listings. For sellers, presenting a complete service history and preserving originality can help maximize value in a competitive market.
In short, there isn’t a single number that defines “a Honda 1990.” Instead, buyers and sellers should anchor expectations to the specific model and its condition, then adjust for regional demand and market trends.
