| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1983 |
| Production Years: | 1983 - 1987 discontinued in 1987 |
The third-generation Honda Civic Hatchback, produced between 1983 and 1987, marked a significant evolution in Honda's compact car lineup. This generation cemented the Civic's reputation as a reliable and efficient hatchback catering to the needs of urban drivers and small families. Characterized by its practical two-door hatchback configuration, the Civic III combined compact exterior dimensions with a surprisingly spacious interior for its class. Although specific dimensions can vary slightly depending on the market and trim, the typical length ranges around 4,070 mm (160.2 inches), width approximately 1,615 mm (63.6 inches), and height near 1,355 mm (53.3 inches). These measurements contributed to the Civic III's agility in tight city streets while ensuring ease of parking. With a curb weight generally between 850 to 950 kg (1,874 to 2,094 lbs), this generation balanced lightweight construction and structural integrity, promoting fuel efficiency and responsive handling. The hatchback design featured a rear door that opened upward, enabling versatile cargo space and facilitating loading in comparison to traditional sedans. The Civic III Hatchback is renowned for its dependable front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout, and economical 1.3 to 1.5-liter engine options, which delivered respectable performance for daily commuting. Its compact size combined with efficient use of interior space made it a popular choice during the mid-1980s, standing out in the competitive hatchback segment. Overall, the Honda Civic III Hatchback offers a snapshot of 1980s automotive design and functionality, blending practicality with Honda’s hallmark reliability. Ideal for enthusiasts and those comparing vintage hatchbacks, this generation remains a significant milestone in the enduring legacy of the Honda Civic series.
Discover the standout features that make the 1983 Honda Civic III Hatchback a leader in its class
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The 1983-1987 Honda Civic III Hatchback has a length of approximately 3,940 mm (155 inches), a width of about 1,620 mm (63.8 inches), and a height around 1,350 mm (53.1 inches). These compact dimensions make it a small hatchback car in its era, optimized for urban driving and easy maneuvering. The relatively low height contributes to a sporty, aerodynamic profile, while the moderate width ensures ease of parking and city navigation.
The wheelbase of the Honda Civic III Hatchback is approximately 2,370 mm (93.3 inches). This wheelbase length provides a balanced compromise between stability and interior space for a compact hatchback. Although the car is small externally, the wheelbase allows for a reasonable amount of legroom in both front and rear seats for its size class, contributing to a relatively comfortable ride and seating for up to five passengers.
The curb weight of the 1983-1987 Honda Civic III Hatchback typically ranges between 900 to 950 kg (1,984 to 2,094 pounds), depending on the specific trim levels and options. Its lightweight design enhances fuel efficiency and handling, making it nimble and economical compared to larger vehicles. The low weight also contributes to decent acceleration and agility for a compact hatchback of that time.
Yes, the Honda Civic III Hatchback from 1983 to 1987 fits comfortably in a standard residential garage. Standard garages typically have widths of about 2.7 to 3 meters (9 to 10 feet), heights around 2.1 to 2.4 meters (7 to 8 feet), and lengths between 5 to 6 meters (16 to 20 feet). Given the Civic III Hatchback’s compact dimensions—3.94 meters (155 inches) long, 1.62 meters (63.8 inches) wide, and 1.35 meters (53.1 inches) high—it can be parked indoors with ample clearance for opening doors and movement around the vehicle.
The 1983-1987 Honda Civic III Hatchback offers moderate cargo capacity typical of compact hatchbacks from the era. While exact volume measurements vary, it generally provides around 300 to 350 liters (10.6 to 12.3 cubic feet) of space behind the rear seats. The versatile hatchback design allows the rear seats to fold down, considerably expanding cargo space for carrying larger items, luggage, or groceries. This flexibility makes it practical for everyday use despite its compact external dimensions.
With a height of approximately 1,350 mm (53.1 inches), the Honda Civic III Hatchback has a relatively low stance, which contributes positively to aerodynamics and sporty handling. This lower center of gravity improves cornering stability and reduces body roll. However, this lower height might result in slightly reduced headroom compared to taller hatchbacks or sedans, which is common for compact, sporty cars of the 1980s. Overall, the height strikes a balance between a dynamic driving experience and passenger comfort.
Compared to its predecessor, the Honda Civic II, the Civic III Hatchback is slightly larger in nearly all dimensions, offering a more modern and aerodynamic design. The Civic II was generally shorter and narrower, which limited interior and cargo space. The extended length and width of the Civic III provide improved passenger room and comfort, while the updated styling reflects the 1980s trend toward sleeker, sportier compact cars. This generation marked a notable improvement in both practicality and visual appeal over the previous generation.
When compared to other mid-1980s compact hatchbacks like the Toyota Corolla AE82 or Volkswagen Golf Mk2, the Honda Civic III Hatchback is similar in length and width, typically around 3.9 to 4 meters (154-157 inches) long and about 1.6 meters (63 inches) wide. The Civic tends to be slightly lower in height, giving it a sportier stance. Weight-wise, it is competitively light, often under 1,000 kg (2,200 pounds), which benefits performance and fuel economy. Overall, the Civic III strikes a good balance by offering competitive interior space and compact exterior dimensions that appeal to urban drivers.
The relatively small size and lightweight construction of the 1983-1987 Honda Civic III Hatchback significantly contributed to its excellent fuel economy, which was one of its strongest selling points. Weighing approximately 900 to 950 kg (1,984 to 2,094 pounds) and with compact aerodynamics due to its moderate length and low height, the car was capable of achieving fuel consumption figures generally around 6 to 7 liters per 100 kilometers (40-39 mpg US). This efficiency made the Civic III Hatchback particularly popular in markets facing fuel economy concerns and competing models.
The 1983-1987 Honda Civic III Hatchback is a well-sized compact hatchback that balances practicality with a sporty character. Its external dimensions make city driving and parking straightforward, while the interior space accommodates a small family with decent passenger comfort for its class and era. The hatchback design adds versatility for cargo loading and transportation of larger items when the rear seats are folded. Additionally, its lightweight and aerodynamic body help deliver solid fuel efficiency and responsive handling, making it both a practical and enjoyable vehicle for daily commuting or light recreational driving.
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