1976 Honda Accord I Hatchback (SJ,SY) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1976 Honda Accord I Hatchback is 918 kg (2024 lbs). This relatively light weight helped improve fuel efficiency, acceleration, and handling characteristics, making the car nimble and economical for its time, especially when paired with its modest engine options.

This Honda Accord generation offers a ground clearance of 165 mm (6.5 inches). The moderate ride height provides a good balance between stability and practicality, allowing it to handle varied road conditions without compromising comfort or risking undercarriage damage.

Yes, the 1976 Honda Accord I Hatchback's dimensions make it suitable for fitting into a standard home garage. With a length of 4125 mm (162.2 inches) and a width of 1620 mm (63.8 inches), it occupies less space compared to many modern vehicles. The low height of 1335 mm (52.6 inches) also provides ample clearance in garages with typical ceiling heights.

The 1976 Honda Accord I Hatchback was actually the first-generation model, so it does not have a direct predecessor. However, it set the standard for Honda's midsize cars with its compact hatchback layout, efficient use of interior space, and emphasis on lightweight construction, which helped establish the Accord nameplate's longstanding success.

Compared to similar compact hatchbacks of the late 1970s, such as the Toyota Corolla and Datsun 510, the 1976 Honda Accord I Hatchback was competitive in size. It was slightly longer than some competitors, at 4125 mm (162.2 inches), with similar width and height, but generally lighter in weight. This combination made it stand out for offering spaciousness inside a compact footprint.

The 1976 Honda Accord I Hatchback was designed to seat up to five passengers including the driver. Despite its compact exterior dimensions, the clever hatchback design provided usable rear seat space and flexible cargo capacity, making it suitable for small families or individuals needing efficient space utilization without sacrificing comfort.

The Honda Accord I Hatchback was produced from 1976 to 1981. During this period, it played a pivotal role in establishing Honda’s reputation for reliable, fuel-efficient, and practical cars in markets around the world. It was one of the early Japanese cars to gain strong acceptance in North America and other Western markets due to its modern engineering and size.

Thanks to its light curb weight of 918 kg (2024 lbs) and compact size, the 1976 Honda Accord I Hatchback offered impressive fuel efficiency for its time. While exact fuel economy figures vary depending on engine options and driving conditions, typically it achieved between 30 to 38 miles per gallon (approximately 7.8 to 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers), making it an economical choice during an era of rising fuel prices.

The Honda Accord I Hatchback featured a sleek, angular design typical of late 1970s hatchbacks, characterized by a compact profile with clean lines, a sharply sloping rear hatch, and slim pillars that enhanced visibility. Its modest dimensions, including a low height of 1335 mm (52.6 inches), contributed to a sporty yet practical aesthetic that balanced function and style.