| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1984 |
| Production Years: | 1983 - 1987 discontinued in 1987 |
The Honda CRX I (AF, AS), produced between 1983 and 1987, is a compact hatchback known for its sporty design and efficient performance. The 1984 model year represents the early iteration of this iconic compact vehicle which quickly gained popularity for its lightweight construction and responsive handling. This generation of the CRX measures approximately 3,730 mm (146.9 inches) in length, 1,635 mm (64.4 inches) in width, and 1,240 mm (48.8 inches) in height, presenting a sleek and small footprint ideal for urban driving and tight parking spaces.
Weighing roughly around 810 kg to 900 kg (1,786 to 1,984 lbs) depending on specific configurations, the CRX I emphasizes agility and fuel economy without sacrificing the sporty feel. The hatchback body style offers a practical cargo space for daily use, while maintaining a compact and aerodynamic silhouette. Its compact size helped it stand out in the subcompact and sport compact segment of the 1980s, blending functionality with a fun driving experience.
Inside, the interior was designed to maximize the limited space, offering comfortable seating for two passengers with an optional rear seat in some markets, balancing practicality and a driver-focused cockpit. The aerodynamic design, combined with its lightweight frame, contributed to excellent fuel efficiency and maneuverability, making it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking an affordable yet enjoyable driving experience.
Comparatively, the Honda CRX I falls on the smaller side of the hatchback market in its era, making it an ideal choice for drivers prioritizing size efficiency and sportiness. Its dimensions and lightweight package laid the foundation for future CRX generations which expanded on these characteristics, solidifying the model’s reputation in the compact sports hatchback category.
Discover the standout features that make the 1984 Honda CRX I a leader in its class
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The 1984 Honda CRX I (AF, AS) has a compact exterior ideal for city driving. Its length measures approximately 3,785 millimeters (149 inches), the width is about 1,610 millimeters (63.4 inches), and the height stands around 1,290 millimeters (50.8 inches). These measurements make it a nimble hatchback with a low profile, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and sporty looks. The relatively small size also improves maneuverability and ease of parking compared to larger vehicles.
The wheelbase of the 1984 Honda CRX I is approximately 2,250 millimeters (88.6 inches). A shorter wheelbase like this contributes to nimble, responsive handling, making the CRX particularly agile and easy to maneuver in urban environments and tight corners. However, it might slightly reduce straight-line stability compared to longer wheelbase vehicles. Overall, the compact wheelbase favors sporty driving dynamics consistent with the CRX's reputation as a fun, lightweight hatchback.
The curb weight of the 1984 Honda CRX I (AF, AS) ranges from approximately 815 kilograms (1,797 pounds) depending on trim and optional equipment. This lightweight design significantly enhances performance by allowing quicker acceleration, improved fuel efficiency, and agile handling. The low weight also helps the CRX deliver sharp steering feedback and a sporty driving experience, which was especially appreciated in the 1980s when lighter cars were more prevalent in the sport compact segment.
The 1984 Honda CRX I is a 2-seater hatchback, primarily designed for driver and front passenger comfort. Although it does not have a rear seat, it provides moderate cargo space in the rear hatch area, which can be expanded by folding the rear hatch panel. The interior is compact and focused on functionality, typical of sport compacts from that era. The limited seating and cargo space reflect its sporty, lightweight design intention rather than family or utility use.
Yes, the 1984 Honda CRX I fits comfortably into a standard residential garage. Typical residential garages in many countries measure about 2.4 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet) in width and approximately 5.5 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in length. Since the CRX I measures roughly 3.785 meters (149 inches) in length and 1.61 meters (63.4 inches) in width, it occupies significantly less floor space than the average car, allowing for extra room around the vehicle inside standard garage spaces.
The 1984 Honda CRX I (AF, AS) was the first generation of the CRX model line; therefore, it did not have a predecessor within the CRX series. However, it succeeded earlier compact and sporty Honda models such as the Civic hatchback variants, aiming to blend lightweight construction with sportier performance. The CRX I was revolutionary for its time with a sleek, aerodynamic, low-profile hatchback design, setting a new benchmark for compact sports cars and differentiating itself from the more utilitarian designs of earlier Honda models.
Compared to other compact sports hatchbacks of the 1980s, such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk1 or the Ford Escort RS Turbo, the Honda CRX I is similarly compact but tends to be lower in height and slightly lighter. The Golf GTI, for example, was longer and wider, giving it more interior space but reducing ease of maneuverability. The CRX’s lower overall height (approximately 1.29 meters / 50.8 inches) and lighter weight provided a sporty driving character focused on agility, which set it apart among competitors in the sport compact segment.
The compact dimensions and lightweight design of the 1984 Honda CRX I notably contribute to its fuel efficiency. Weighing around 815 kg (1,797 pounds), it demands less power for acceleration and cruising, which reduces fuel consumption compared to heavier cars. The CRX is known for delivering impressive fuel economy figures for its time, often exceeding 7 liters per 100 kilometers (about 34 mpg US), making it an economical choice. Its aerodynamic shape, low height, and small frontal area further reduce drag, supporting better mileage during highway driving.
Despite its compact size, the Honda CRX I features a practical hatchback design that optimizes cargo flexibility. While it’s a two-seater without rear passenger space, the rear hatch opens to reveal a cargo area that can handle everyday items like groceries, luggage, or sports gear. The hatchback design allows for easier loading and unloading compared to traditional trunks. Additionally, folding down the rear hatch panel expands the cargo area lengthwise, providing added room when transporting larger items, which adds to the car’s versatility given its small footprint.
The compact length of approximately 3.785 meters (149 inches) and a narrow width of about 1.61 meters (63.4 inches) allow the 1984 Honda CRX I to fit into tight urban parking spaces more easily than many full-size or mid-size vehicles. This small footprint helps drivers find parking spots in congested city areas or crowded lots where larger vehicles may struggle. Its low height also aids in fitting into parking garages or spaces with height restrictions, making the CRX a practical choice for city dwellers concerned with parking convenience.
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