| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1985 |
| Production Years: | 1985 - 1989 discontinued in 1989 |
The third-generation Honda Accord, identified by chassis codes CA4 and CA5, was produced from 1985 to 1989 and represents a significant evolution in Honda's mid-size sedan lineup. This generation featured a more aerodynamic and modern design compared to its predecessors, delivering improved comfort and practicality for drivers and passengers alike. As a sedan, the Accord III offered ample interior space and a balanced size conducive to both city and highway driving. The vehicle's exterior dimensions reflect this balance, with a length around 4,435 mm (174.6 inches), width close to 1,690 mm (66.5 inches), and height approximately 1,355 mm (53.3 inches), making it a competitive choice in the mid-size sedan segment of the late 1980s. Its thoughtfully engineered design contributed to a comfortable cabin environment, better fuel efficiency, and steady handling. The Honda Accord III was available with various engine options and trims during its production run, solidifying its reputation for reliability and value. Its dimensions allow for a spacious passenger compartment while maintaining maneuverability in urban settings. This generation laid the foundation for future Accord models, combining Japanese engineering quality with practical features preferred by a broad range of drivers.
Discover the standout features that make the 1985 Honda Accord III a leader in its class
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The 1985 Honda Accord III sedan, known under the CA4/CA5 chassis codes, measures approximately 4,470 mm (176.0 inches) in length, 1,680 mm (66.1 inches) in width, and 1,340 mm (52.8 inches) in height. These dimensions reflect the car's compact to mid-size classification during the mid-1980s, offering a practical size for urban and suburban driving. The design balances interior space and exterior footprint, which was key as Honda transitioned the Accord to appeal to both family and commuter markets.
The curb weight of the 1985-1989 Honda Accord III varies depending on trim and equipment but generally ranges from approximately 1,050 kg to 1,150 kg (2,315 to 2,535 lbs). This relatively light weight for a sedan of its class contributed to fuel efficiency and nimble handling. The weight is distributed across a front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, offering a balanced driving experience for its time.
The wheelbase of the 1985 Honda Accord III is about 2,525 mm (99.4 inches). A longer wheelbase generally translates to more interior space, especially for rear passengers, and a smoother ride due to improved weight distribution and stability. For the Accord III, this wheelbase allowed Honda to offer comfortable seating for up to five occupants while maintaining good handling characteristics.
The 1985 Honda Accord III sedan offers a practical trunk space of approximately 400 liters (14.1 cubic feet). This cargo capacity is ample for everyday luggage and groceries and was competitive for sedans in the mid-size category of the mid-1980s. The rear seats could also fold down in some variants, allowing for increased cargo flexibility when needed.
Yes, the 1985 Honda Accord III fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Given its length of about 4,470 mm (176.0 inches) and width of 1,680 mm (66.1 inches), it is smaller than typical garage dimensions which generally provide at least 2,500 mm (98.4 inches) of width and 5,000 mm (196.9 inches) of depth. This leaves some clearance on the sides and front/rear for easy parking and opening doors.
Compared to the second-generation Honda Accord (1982-1985), the third-generation Accord III (1985-1989) is slightly larger and more refined. The Accord III grew a bit in length and width, offering increased interior space and comfort. This progression reflected Honda's effort to make the Accord more competitive in the mid-size segment, addressing customer demands for a roomier cabin and enhanced road presence while retaining the nimbleness and efficiency that characterized the earlier generation.
The 1985 Honda Accord III sits comfortably within the mid-size segment when compared with contemporary rivals like the Toyota Camry, Nissan Maxima, and Ford Taurus. While similar in length—around four and a half meters (approximately 14.7 feet)—the Accord is generally narrower and slightly lighter. This gives it an advantage in maneuverability and fuel economy. The balance of compact external dimensions with efficient interior packaging made the Accord one of the preferred choices among mid-1980s sedans.
The ground clearance of the 1985 Honda Accord III sedan is approximately 150 mm (5.9 inches). This clearance is typical for mid-size sedans of the era, providing a balance between stability for highway driving and sufficient height to handle common road obstacles such as speed bumps and uneven surfaces with ease.
The 1985 Accord III has a width of about 1,680 mm (66.1 inches) and a height of roughly 1,340 mm (52.8 inches). The relatively narrow width benefits drivers in tight urban parking situations, allowing easier navigation through narrow lanes and parking spaces. The low height contributes to a sportier profile and improved aerodynamics, enhancing fuel efficiency while maintaining adequate headroom inside the cabin.
The 1985 Honda Accord III introduced a significant redesign compared to its predecessor, focusing on aerodynamic styling with smoother lines and a more modern appearance. Key improvements included enhanced suspension tuning for better ride comfort and handling, larger cabin space, and advanced engine options including fuel-injected variants that improved performance and fuel economy. Safety features such as improved braking systems became more prevalent, and the interior was upgraded with better materials and ergonomics. These updates positioned the Accord III as a well-rounded mid-size sedan for its era.
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