1984 Honda CRX

The new Honda Civic CRX carried the title as the highest gas mileage car in America, achieving an impressive EPA estimated 51 mpg. This was the first gasoline-engined car to achieve this status. The sporty 2-passenger coupe was powered by a 1342cc engine and rode on low rolling-resistance steel-belted radial tires and fitted with a 5-speed manual transmission. A tachometer and an Economy Driving Indicator light prompted the driver when to upshift for maximum fuel economy.

Standard features included a small-diameter thick-rimmed steering wheel, a soft touch push-button controls for heating, flow-through ventilation, rear window defroster, door glass defrosters, and tinted glass. The outside rearview mirrors were remote-controlled. Air conditioning was available as optional equipment.

The Civic CRX 1.5 came equipped with a 1488cc 12-valve engine and a sport suspension. Other refinements were added to enhance the driving experience. They rode on Michelin steel-belted radial tires on wider wheels, dual remote-control outside mirrors, and power-assisted, ventilated front disc brakes. A five-speed manual was standard and a new 3-speed automatic with torque converter lock-up was available as optional equipment.

By Daniel Vaughan | Sep 2016