Most Honda models, like other Japanese cars, are ideal project cars. Thanks to their solid build quality and superb engineering, they are perfect templates for modification. One other very important attribute of Japanese cars is that they are relatively more reasonably priced. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced enthusiast with sights on street racing, you can't go wrong with the cars on this list. Not only are they resilient, but they are also easy to work on and run on engines that are easy to tune.
Moreover, with these project cars, there is no shortage of aftermarket/replacement parts and donor cars in case you need to do a transplant. The tuning potentials of cars like the Acura Integra and the Honda Civic are unlimited. So, if you are ready to experience the satisfaction of building your dream Honda, here are 10 models that make great project cars.
10 1991-1995 Prelude Si VTEC
The Prelude is a FWD coupe that Honda built and marketed across five generations from 1978 until 2001. Fourth-generation Preludes boasted a 58-42 front-rear weight distribution and a more rounded exterior. Under the hood of the Si VTEC models, lies a 2.2-liter I-4 engine rated at 197 hp and 161 lb-ft of torque.
It sports double wishbone suspensions in the front and at the rear while a four-wheel disc brake provides stopping power. With its gorgeous looks, lightweight chassis, solid build quality, and plenty of aftermarket support, it is a favorite of tuners.
9 2004-2008 Acura TSX
The Acura TSX is a four-door sedan that was introduced in 2003 to replace the Integra sedan in North American markets. It was powered by a 2.4-liter I-4 K24A2 engine rated at 197 hp initially before output was raised to 205 hp. This motor, unlike other Honda K-series engines, used intelligent variable valve timing (i-VTEC) on both the intake and exhaust cams.
Although the stock TSX is a refined ride that handles well, upgrades to the shocks can make it more agile. With more power under the hood, this comfortable executive sedan can be transformed into a sleeper car.
8 Second-Generation CRX
The fully redesigned, second-generation CRX was offered in three trim levels and several power options. Under the Si trim, a rear anti-sway bar and variable ratio rack-and-pinion steering were standard offerings. It came with a bespoke double wishbone suspension that can be modified to suit your preferred driving style. To squeeze a little more power from the engine, it can take aftermarket intake systems that offer top-tier air filtration.
Alongside the engine mods, an aftermarket exhaust will also boost horsepower, improve efficiency, and play a more aggressive soundtrack. This reliable fun to drive commuter car can easily be transformed into a competent racing machine.
7 1997 Integra
Marketed under the Acura brand in North America, the Integra was launched in 1986 along with the V6-powered Legend. The 1997 Integra lineup included the Type R which ran on a high-revving 1.8-liter four-banger tweaked to produce 195 hp.
Back in the day, it was one of the hottest '90s FWD coupes on the road. As a great project car, it has plenty of aftermarket parts and lots of owners' forums for tech support. Furthermore, despite rising prices, some clean Integras are still available at very affordable asking prices.
6 Civic
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Introduced in 1972, the Honda Civic is one of the all-time bestsellers and one of the most popular models for customization. With the number of body styles, engine options, and interior furnishings available, there is no shortage of options to choose from.
Also available is a dizzying array of top-quality aftermarket parts. Boasting a lightweight chassis and a solid build quality, it is easy to work on. There is no limit to what can be accomplished with the Civic. A few suspension upgrades plus a set of decent rubber can transform this grocery getter into a capable performer.
5 S2000
After it was shown in concept form in 1995, the production S2000 arrived for the 2000 model year. Developed to mark Honda's 50th anniversary, the two-door roadster boasted an insane specific power output. Underneath, it sported an independent double wishbone suspension while a 50:50 weight distribution gave it exceptional handling.
With its lightweight and the number of over-the-counter parts available, one can really go to town on the S2000. Although it doesn't come very cheap on the market, it is one project car that will give you value for your bucks.
4 Fit
Riding the Honda Global Small Car platform, the Honda Fit arrived in the US in 2006 for the 2007 model year. The 5-door hatchback has superb flexibility and nimble handling in addition to a flexible interior configuration. Furthermore, it has excellent fuel economy and commands affordable sticker prices.
You can make it handle better by giving it stronger shocks, stiffer sway bars, and wider wheels wrapped in better rubber. If you are not too impressed with the engine's output of 109 hp, you can install a cold air intake and upgrade the exhaust.
3 Del Sol
The Del Sol is a 2-door Targa top coupe that was marketed in North America from 1993 through 1997 model years. Power options for 1995 included the 1.6-liter I4 engine that powered the VTEC model with 160 hp and 111 lb-ft. This incredibly efficient high-revving engine is reliable and has massive tuning potential.
With the large pool of aftermarket performance parts available, the Del Sol's chassis and suspension can be easily upgraded to support extra power. Apart from the availability of parts, there are many owners' forums for technical support.
2 1991-1995 Legend
Introduced in 1990, the second-generation Legend came in two body styles with a 3.2-liter V6 engine under the hood. Honda used the Legend as a test platform for new technologies developed for the mid-engined Honda NSX. The coupe is one of Honda's all-time greats and sports heated leather seats, speed-sensitive steering, four-wheel ABS disc brakes, and electric soft-close doors.
Originally backed by 200 ponies, power was bumped to 230 hp in 1993 with the Type II version of the engine. Although the Legend is already a great car, some of the latest aftermarket parts can take it from great to outstanding.
1 1989-1993 Accord
As one of Honda's best-selling models, the Accord is not only popular with buyers, it is also a popular project car. With up to 1.5 million units sold in the US between 1990 and 1993, they are available for cheap. It rode on a then newly-designed chassis and a 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension system.
Also new was the all-aluminum electronic fuel-injected 2.2-liter I-4 engine that lay under the hood. From simple upgrades that help improve ride quality to crazy mods that make it stand out, the Accord can take it all.