1981 Honda Accord Hatchback 1.6L 5MT FWD (80 HP)

Vehicle Overview

After a first generation that was welcomed by customers, the automaker considered introducing a second iteration of that nameplate in 1981 for the 1982 model year with significant improvements in almost all areas.

Honda introduced the second generation of the Accord in late 1981 for all markets: Japan, Europe, and North America. While at first sight, the three-door hatchback looked like a facelifted version of its predecessor, its bigger dimensions confirmed that it was an entirely new model. There were also new features available that made customers wait for weeks or months to have the one they wanted in their driveways or parking lots. It was also improved in the power department with the introduction of new, more potent engines that were still fuel-efficient and rewarded customers with a lot of miles to the gallons or liters per kilometer, depending on which side of the Atlantic they were.

For the second generation of the Accord, Honda kept the quad-headlights design from the previous model. However, instead of being round, these were squared for the U.S. and wide and rectangular for other markets. In addition, the automaker installed corner-mounted turn signals. Between them, the grille sported two horizontal slats, while the brand’s badge was placed on the curved-down front side of the hood. The wrapped-around plastic bumper was neatly integrated into the bodywork’s lines.

From its profile, the three-door hatchback styling of the previous generation of the Honda Accord was kept. However, the car was 84 mm (3.3-inch) longer, 30 mm (1.2-inch) wider, and slightly taller. Honda tried to create a more stylish look for the Accord and offered the car black or chrome trims around the window line, depending on the grade. In addition, to show its concern for passengers’ protection, it put rubber stripes along the bodywork, which visually connected the front and rear wheel arches. At the back, Honda created new rectangular taillights featuring clear distinction between the turn signals, the reversing lights, and the brake lamps. Like its predecessor, the three-door hatchback version of the Accord’s second generation came with standard rear window defrosting and wiper.

Inside, the automaker created wedged shapes for the dashboard that followed the same design ideas as the exterior. Fronting the driver was a fresh instrument cluster where customers couldn’t find the warning lights for tire rotation or oil change, like on the 1977 Accord. Instead, Honda put large dials for the speedometer and tachometer. Between them, it installed gauges for fuel level and coolant temperature. Below the dashboard, on the driver’s side, the automaker placed the controls for the ventilation system, with available air conditioning. Next to it was the stereo, which was easily accessible by the side passenger. In the back, the headroom and legroom were marginally enough for three adult-sized occupants on the flat-folding bench seat.

Under the hood, Honda installed a choice of gasoline engines ranging between 80 PS (79 hp) and 97 PS (96 hp), depending on the market. Another significant upgrade was for the optional automatic transmission, which had three gears instead of two, like its predecessor. The five-speed manual was still standard across the range.