| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1983 |
| Production Years: | 1983 - 1987 discontinued in 1987 |
The Honda Civic III, produced from 1983 to 1987, represents the third generation of the popular Civic line and is known for its practical and efficient design. This generation marked a further refinement in Honda's approach to compact sedans, featuring a more aerodynamic shape and improved interior space compared to its predecessors. The Honda Civic III sedan typically measures approximately 4,170 mm (164.2 inches) in length, providing ample room for daily commuting and practical urban driving. Its width and height contribute to a balanced compact vehicle footprint that is easy to maneuver and park, especially in tight city environments. With a lightweight body, the Civic III delivers improved fuel economy and responsive handling, traits valued by drivers seeking reliability and efficiency in the mid-1980s automotive market. The interior cabin was designed to maximize passenger comfort while maintaining a straightforward and driver-friendly layout. The Civic III sedan remains a notable example of Honda's engineering focus on durability, practicality, and economical performance during this era.
Discover the standout features that make the 1983 Honda Civic III a leader in its class
Have a question? Please check our knowledgebase first.
The Honda Civic III Sedan, produced between 1983 and 1987, features compact dimensions typical of early 1980s sedans. It measures approximately 4,195 mm (165.2 inches) in length, 1,650 mm (64.9 inches) in width, and has a height of around 1,350 mm (53.1 inches). These measurements contribute to its nimble and efficient design, making it well-suited for urban environments and easier parking.
The curb weight of the Honda Civic III Sedan from 1983-1987 varies slightly depending on trim levels and optional equipment, but generally falls in the range of 850 kg to 900 kg (1,874 to 1,984 lbs). This lightweight construction helped improve fuel efficiency and handling for the car, classifying it as a lightweight compact vehicle.
The 1983-1987 Honda Civic III Sedan was designed to provide functional passenger space despite its compact exterior. While exact interior dimensions vary, the seating accommodates four to five passengers comfortably with a focus on maximizing headroom and legroom within the compact frame. The cabin prioritizes practicality and ergonomics for everyday use.
The trunk capacity of the Honda Civic III Sedan produced between 1983 and 1987 is approximately 300 to 350 liters (10.6 to 12.4 cubic feet). This cargo volume is sufficient for typical daily needs such as grocery shopping or small luggage but is modest compared to larger sedans or hatchbacks, reflecting the compact class of the vehicle.
Yes, the Honda Civic III Sedan comfortably fits into a standard residential garage. Typical garage dimensions are around 2,400 mm (8 feet) in width and 4,800 mm (16 feet) in length, while the Civic III’s dimensions of approximately 1,650 mm (64.9 inches) wide and 4,195 mm (165.2 inches) long make parking and storage convenient without spatial issues.
The Honda Civic III’s width of approximately 1,650 mm (64.9 inches) is reflective of typical compact sedans of the 1980s. Compared to rivals like the Toyota Corolla and Ford Escort from that era, the Civic offers a slightly narrower body. This narrower width improved maneuverability in tight urban environments but resulted in a more snug cabin space compared to some competitors.
Compared to the second-generation Civic (1979-1983), the third-generation Civic (1983-1987) saw a slight increase in length and width to enhance interior space and aerodynamic efficiency. While the second generation measured roughly 4,020 mm (158.3 inches) in length, the third generation increased to approximately 4,195 mm (165.2 inches). Width also grew marginally, enhancing stability and interior comfort while retaining the car's reputation for economy and reliability.
When compared to the mid-1980s Toyota Corolla sedans, the Honda Civic III is slightly more compact. For example, the Corolla of that era was typically around 4,300 mm (169.3 inches) long and 1,660 mm (65.4 inches) wide, making it a bit larger in footprint compared to the Civic III’s 4,195 mm (165.2 inches) length and 1,650 mm (64.9 inches) width. This size difference made the Civic easier to maneuver and park, while the Corolla generally offered marginally more interior space.
The Honda Civic III generation typically came equipped with either a 1.3-liter or 1.5-liter inline-four engine, with some markets offering a 1.6-liter variant. These engines prioritized reliability and fuel efficiency over outright power, producing roughly between 55 to 75 horsepower, depending on the market and exact engine specification. The Civic III’s lightweight and compact size contributed to nimble handling and excellent fuel economy, making it popular among economy-focused drivers.
The third-generation Honda Civic sedan had a height of approximately 1,350 mm (53.1 inches) and a ground clearance typically around 150 mm (5.9 inches). This low profile contributed to better aerodynamics and handling stability at speed, while the moderate ground clearance allowed it to comfortably navigate typical urban and suburban road conditions. However, the relatively low clearance was not optimized for rough terrain or off-road use.
Honda