1979 Honda Civic II Hatchback Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Honda Civic II Hatchback features a wheelbase of approximately 2300 mm (90.6 inches). This measurement—the distance between the front and rear wheels—plays a critical role in the vehicle's interior space and handling characteristics. A 2300 mm wheelbase provides a good balance for a subcompact car, allowing for reasonable legroom in both front and rear seats despite the vehicle's compact overall size. It also contributes to a relatively smooth and stable ride by offering sufficient space for the suspension components to absorb road imperfections. However, compared to larger sedans, the ride comfort may be firmer, reflecting the Civic II's emphasis on agility and efficiency.

The curb weight of the Honda Civic II Hatchback from the 1979-1983 model years ranges between approximately 830 kg to 940 kg (about 1830 to 2070 lbs), depending on the specific trim and engine options. This relatively low weight is a hallmark of the Civic II, contributing to its fuel efficiency and nimble handling. A lighter vehicle is easier to maneuver, accelerates quicker with less power, and typically achieves better fuel economy. The low curb weight also helps when navigating urban traffic and parking in tight spaces, which were key selling points for the Civic in this era.

The Honda Civic II Hatchback offers passenger space that maximizes the compact exterior dimensions. While specific interior length, width, and height figures are not often published for this generation, the cabin is designed to comfortably seat four passengers. The interior width allows for adequate shoulder room, while headroom is optimized thanks to the hatchback's roofline which slopes gently but retains ample vertical space. Legroom is sufficient for small to average-sized adults, especially in the front seats. Rear passenger space is more suited for shorter trips or smaller passengers, reflecting the car’s subcompact status but efficient interior packaging.

The 1979-1983 Honda Civic II Hatchback offers practical cargo space typical of small hatchbacks of its era. With the rear seats upright, the cargo area can comfortably hold shopping bags, small luggage, or similar items, making it suitable for everyday errands. When the rear seats are folded down, the usable cargo space expands substantially, allowing larger items or increased volume for hauling needs. While exact cargo volume figures are not commonly detailed, the hatchback layout inherently provides flexibility not found in traditional sedans, enhancing the vehicle's appeal for owners needing versatility in a compact footprint.

Yes, the Honda Civic II Hatchback fits comfortably in a standard single-car garage. Standard single-car garages are typically around 2.7 to 3 meters (9 to 10 feet) wide and about 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) long. With an overall length of approximately 3830 mm (150.8 inches) and width of 1615 mm (63.6 inches), the Civic II Hatchback leaves sufficient clearance on all sides in a typical garage setting. This compact size makes parking, storing, and protecting the vehicle convenient for most homeowners with domestic garage facilities.

Compared to the first-generation Honda Civic (1972-1979), the second-generation Civic II Hatchback (1979-1983) saw a modest increase in size and refinement. The Civic II was longer, measuring around 3830 mm versus approximately 3700 mm on the original, adding extra cabin space and cargo capacity. Width and height were also slightly increased, improving interior comfort and road presence. These dimensional tweaks allowed the Civic II to offer better passenger accommodation while maintaining the nimble and efficient traits that defined the original model. Overall, the second generation built upon its predecessor by offering a slightly larger but still highly practical and compact urban car.

The Honda Civic II Hatchback holds a competitive position among early 1980s hatchbacks regarding size and interior packaging. Its length of about 3830 mm (150.8 inches) is typical of subcompact hatchbacks like the Volkswagen Golf Mk1 and Ford Fiesta of the era, though the Civic tends to be slightly narrower. Despite its compact dimensions, Honda's clever engineering allowed for efficient use of interior space, offering comfortable seating for up to four passengers and flexible cargo room. It emphasized reliability and practicality over luxury or luxury-sized interiors but was well-regarded for its spacious feel relative to its small footprint.

The Honda Civic II Hatchback came with a range of small displacement engines primarily focused on fuel efficiency and reliability. Commonly, the line was powered by 1.3L or 1.5L inline 4-cylinder engines producing between 55 and 75 horsepower, depending on the market and tuning. These engines were known for their rev-happy nature and excellent fuel economy rather than outright performance. Despite modest power outputs, the car's light weight helped deliver decent acceleration for city driving, and its manual transmissions enhanced driver engagement. The Civic II was prized as an economical, reliable urban vehicle rather than a high-performance car.

During its 1979-1983 production run, the Honda Civic II was primarily offered as a 3-door hatchback, which became the most iconic and widely recognized body style of this generation. Some markets also had a 2-door sedan (Civic Sedan) variant alongside the hatchback, but the hatchback was the focal point of this generation's lineup. Trim levels varied depending on country and year but typically included base models with basic equipment and more upscale or sportier trims featuring upgraded interiors, additional chrome or trim accents, and sometimes slightly different suspension setups. The Civic II was celebrated for practicality and economy rather than luxury, so trim variations often focused on convenience and comfort enhancements.