Predicting a future classic is never easy, as tastes change, technology moves on and what seemed like a good idea at the time can become the laughing stock of the next generation. But I’m prepared to take a risk and say that I reckon the Honda CRX convertible has the makings of a future classic.

It’s not the prettiest convertible you can buy (for about the same money the Mazda MX-5 would be my choice), but what it lacks in looks it makes up for in brains. Because four years before the Mercedes-Benz SLK caused a stir with its folding metal roof, the Honda CRX already had one.

For that reason alone the CRX should be assured its place in history. But combine that feature with a great engine, superb reliability and bargain-basement second-hand prices and we should really all have one tucked away in the garage for a rainy — or rather sunny — day.

Introduced to Britain in June 1992 the convertible was the second generation of the CRX. The first, a 2+2 coupé, also achieved cult status thanks to its powerful, high-revving VTEC engine.

The second-generation CRX was introduced with a choice of two 1.6 litre engines, one giving 125bhp, the other — in the VTi model — 158bhp. To extract nearly 100bhp per litre from an engine without the use of a turbocharger or supercharger is something quite special, but the CRX managed it.

Drive a CRX VTi today and you’ll find that 12 years after its launch it still feels decently quick, the 0-60mph dash taking just 8.2sec and the top speed clocking in at 121mph.

It’s easy to forget the CRX’s age; it may not be stunning but it certainly doesn’t look old-fashioned. Unless it has been in a knock you should find that panel fits are still tight and the paint is bright — Honda builds cars to last.

The CRX’s road manners are more than agreeable, with light steering, a slick gearbox and a good ride. Only when travelling at higher speeds with the roof removed do wind and road noise intrude. With the roof panel removed the CRX also has a noticeable amount of scuttle shake.

Initially Honda offered the CRX only with a manually removable roof panel. The system is simple enough and the panel stores in the boot space, but it is large and relatively heavy and it’s worth checking you can do it single-handedly. The electric roof option, introduced on VTi models in January 1993, may make for a great car-park trick, but all the motors and arms take up valuable luggage space and what started off as a good size of boot becomes seriously limited. For this reason cars with the electric roof mechanism can be bought for around the same money as the manual.

The little Honda’s reasonable purchase price, sharp handling and strong engine have caused it to find favour among the tuning fraternity, so it’s getting harder to find an unmolested example of a CRX for sale. Britain also has more than its fair share of imported cars, usually badged Del Sol. These can vary from the standard British spec in several ways, some significant, others less so. It’s worth talking to an independent specialist before buying an import as some spare parts can differ and be disproportionately expensive to buy. The website www.hondacrx.co.uk has an owners’ forum where you can seek advice.

VITAL STATISTICS: Honda CRX Convertible

Model: Honda CRX 1.6 VTi
Engine type: Four-cylinder, 1596cc
Power: 158bhp
Transmission: Five-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Fuel: 32.1mpg (urban)
Acceleration: 0-60mph: 8.2sec
Top speed: 121mph

Roof panel: Removing the roof manually can be awkward as it is quite large and heavy. Check its seals for leaks

Handling: With roof panel removed the car can flex, but this doesnÕt hugely affect its excellent driving characteristics

Brakes: Check front discs and pads as wear can be heavy, and on VTi models make sure the antilock system works

Wheels: The CRX's 14in wheels are small by today's standards and many have been replaced with larger rims, though ride-spoiling massive wheels should be avoided

Automatic roof: Despite being a £1,500 option on 1.6 VTi models when new, cars with electric folding roof are now worth about the same as those with manually removable roof panels

Suspension: Check under the car for signs of kerbing or visits to gravel traps on track days

Rear window: Central rear window can be lowered electrically

Boot: Electric roof mechanism seriously reduces what is otherwise a large storage area

Total sold in Britain (1992-97): 18,000

Air-conditioning: Standard on most cars imported privately from abroad, but a rare option on UK vehicles

Imports: Cars made for foreign markets can end up expensive as they require different and hard-to-get spares. Many are badged Del Sol and some have been speed-limited to 112mph. Look for small rear numberplates, no rear-screen heater, and a high-level LED brake light as other signs of an import

THE ONE TO BUY

Honda CRX 1.6 VTi five-speed manual, 1993 L-reg with 80,000 miles. Pay £2,895 at a dealer, or £2,250 privately.


OR FOR SIMILAR MONEY...

1991 J-reg Mazda MX-5
1991 H-reg Toyota MR2 GT T-bar
1995 M-reg Vauxhall Tigra 1.6i
1995 N-reg Rover 220 Turbo Coupé
1989 G-reg Lotus Excel 2+2 coupé

VALUES



Source: value estimates are based on confidential CAP black book prices. ‘Trade’ is what a dealer would pay to buy your car; ‘Retail’ is what you would pay a dealer.