I bought a stripped 1500 DX new in '81. The car was just the thing for college and a major step up from my old and failing Barracuda. While not the most exciting drive, the Civic delivered unsurpassed economy and reliability. Around town with the stick I got 34 mpg religiously and 39 on trips. Repairs over my 80,000 mile ownership included replacing the water pump and repairing a sticking parking brake, and THAT'S IT! When I sold it, rust was taking over the hatchback and the wheel openings but the general operation was still strong. If only Honda could build it again today.

This was the worst car I ever owned. Problems started a week after I bought it. The rear wheel bearings were grinding and the dealer would not believe me. I brought it in 5 times before the stupid car made the noise in front of them. They kept telling me I was crazy and imagining it. They finally had to eat their words. It was a semi-automatic and had no pep at all. I was afraid every time I drove it. At the end I had to put in a quart of oil every time I gassed up. What a nightmare. I know Hondas are supposed to be great cars but I sure got a lemon. Still won't buy a Honda because of this car.

Great car, good speed, reliable. Keep it in good nick.

I'm the original owner of a 1982 Honda Civic FE hatchback, and I can't imagine ever selling it. It's 30 years old this year, and I'm giving it an extra nice paint job as a birthday present. People bragging about their hybrid's 50+ mpg just make me laugh. I was doing that 30 years ago, and I can't believe they think it's a new thing. ;>)

I love my car - it's so much fun to drive! It goes pretty hard for its age, beautiful gearshift, reliable, so pretty much never needs work. As a 5-speed, it keeps up well with the traffic, and is quicker off the line than many equivalent newer cars. YAY!!! Woot!