1996 Honda Civic CRX ESi Targa

Description

• Just 34,000 miles 
• Full Dealer Service History 
• Totally original 
• All factory equipment 

The classic Honda CRX Targa stands out from the 1990s crowd. It’s proof that size isn’t everything. Offering go-kart thrills in a useable package, don’t let anyone tell you this is not a true classic. 

It’s contemporaries at the time were classic hot hatchbacks from Peugeot and Volkswagen, look how well they have done. The CRX is a sleeper classic that is often overlooked. Once you do look, it will change your outlook on performance cars of that era and the CRX. 

The CRX was seen a sporting derivative of the rather predictable Honda Civic. But that is only half the story. Honda’s legendary engineering dexterity transformed the shopping trolley type underpinnings of the Civic and some say turned it into a mini NSX! Either way, it made the Honda CRX a lithe, nimble and rev-happy small sports car. The 1600cc fuel-injected engine, wrapped in the lightweight body weighing 900kgs meant this little car could fly! 

The Third Gen, ESi version featured here, is powered by Honda’s marvellous four cylinder, 16 valve, 1.6 VTEC engine with 125bhp on tap driven through a sporty five speed gearbox with short crisp changes. The front-wheel drive, a monocoque bodyshell with torsion bar front and semi-independent rear suspension are hardly the stuff of dreams. However, it’s the way the components are used that makes it remarkable. The chassis is tight and arranged for high-speed cornering, the little engine is big hearted and quick revving. Keeping the interior sporty in nature and its occupants close to the tarmac, enhances that sense of performance. Handling is inspired, it tackles twists and turns with enthusiasm, delivering an exciting driving experience. 

The diminutive hatchback is a well-kept secret in the classic car world, except for those in the know.  

Provided you can track down one which hasn’t been ravaged by three decades of British weather, or bodged, bashed or pimped, then you’re unlikely to stop grinning from the moment you slip behind the wheel.  

This one is in superb condition. It is a “totally original” 1996 Honda CRX Targa, with all standard factory equipment. It has factory fitted remote alarm and comes with both remotes. To find those with a car is usually a good indication a classic car has been cared for well and looked after properly. It also has two full sets of keys.  

The icing on the cherry of this lovely Targa, is the “full dealer service history”. If that isn’t a rare and wonderful find, we don’t know what is. We nearly forget this Targa two cherries. It has covered only, only 34,000 miles!! 

All that is backed up by the service book; photos are in the gallery, take a look and make sure you check out the great walk-around video from our vendor too – the condition of the Targa looks a dream. 

Our view 

With legendary Honda reliability, the CRX is also fast fun, and frugal. The practical Targa top makes a perfect convertible for the predictable British weather. They’ve been basking quietly in the shadow of cars like the MR2. Those in the know, just know and those that didn’t are just switching on to how good these are as everyday classics. The trouble is firstly, finding one and secondly, finding one that isn’t a wreck. 

Guess what? Your troubles are over. Warranted mileage, three previous owners, superb condition, terrific value. Oh and prices are starting to creep up. 

Vehicle Location: Montrose, Angus DD10 – it’s the responsibility of the winning bidder to make collection / transportation arrangements directly with the vendor 

Have a question about this vehicle? Please contact the Evoke team at auction@evoke-classics.com and we will speak to the vendor on your behalf. 

Guide Prices?

We’re different. But you know that. And we’re always honest. In a sector where no two classic cars are same, how does anyone put a ‘guide’.

Well, everyone knows the broad value of classic, let’s all be honest. So we don’t need to tell you what you already know, do we.

The ‘market’ decides and the old cliché that ‘cars are worth what someone wants to pay’ is no less true. So why kid everyone!

But, because we are different, if it really does matter to you, that’s fine, we want you to be happy. Just drop us a line at auction@evoke-classics.com and one of  us will be delighted to ring you back and discuss, it’s what we do.

Tedious but it’s vital you read this, please. 

We will always strive to offer the most descriptive and transparent auction listings available. However, we can’t claim to be perfect. Your own analysis is very important and we are here to help and also answer any and all queries you may have prior to purchase. 

We offer and positively encourage bidders to view, or arrange inspections for each vehicle thoroughly prior to bidding. 

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As with all vehicles of a certain age, localised paint repairs are common. This specifically applies with classics.   

So, please, unless we state explicitly to the contrary, please assume that classic vehicles on our platform could have had remedial bodywork of any kind at some point in its life. 

Two final comments on images and photos. 

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Finally, finally, finally. Please note that vehicles are sold as seen and a returns policy is not applicable. This is the norm for used items acquired at auction. 

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