Honda CRX twin headlights
Honda CRX Mk2 (1987–1991), a car that still captures hearts decades later.
The Mk2 Honda CRX, also known as the second-generation CR-X, is one of the most beloved compact sports coupes of its era. Launched in 1987, the Mk2 refined everything that made the original CRX special and turned it into a proper driver’s car icon. Light, sharp, and unapologetically focused, it’s become a cult classic in car communities around the world.
At the heart of the Mk2 CRX is lightness—the whole car weighs in at around 900–950 kg, depending on spec. Pair that with rev-happy DOHC VTEC engines (in later models) and one of the most responsive chassis of its time, and you’ve got a recipe for pure fun.
Early European models came with 1.4L and 1.6L SOHC engines
The legendary
CRX VTi / SiR (JDM)
had the B16A VTEC
engine
🔹
1.6L DOHC VTEC
🔹
~158 bhp
🔹 Redline:
8,000+ rpm
🔹 0–60
mph in ~7 seconds (or less when tuned)
Thanks to its featherweight body and short wheelbase, the CRX corners like a go-kart. Turn-in is sharp, feedback is rich, and the car responds to driver input like few others in its class—even by modern standards. It’s raw and mechanical in the best possible way.
The Mk2 ditched the boxier angles of the original for a sleeker, more aerodynamic look. It's classic late-'80s Honda: purposeful, clean, and unmistakably sporty.
Low-slung profile with a sharply raked windshield
Glass hatch giving it a distinctive rear silhouette
Pop-up headlights on some versions (JDM/USDM)
Aggressive stance, but still daily-friendly
From a side view, it looks like it's moving even when it’s standing still. It’s a shape that’s aged incredibly well—retro but not outdated.
The CRX Mk2 is a tuner’s dream. Lightweight + Honda’s legendary B-series engines = infinite modding potential.
Engine swaps galore—B18s, K20s, even turbo builds
Suspension mods tighten up what’s already razor-sharp
Huge aftermarket support worldwide
Whether you want to build a street racer, track toy, or clean OEM+ cruiser, the CRX is the perfect canvas
It's a favorite in autocross, hill climbs, track days, and show builds alike. The CRX can be both a sleeper and a screamer—just depends how you build it.
It’s a Honda from the golden era. That means:
Bulletproof engines if maintained
Basic, robust mechanicals
Rust is the biggest enemy—especially around the rear arches and sills
Parts availability is decent, though clean shells are getting rare
Interior plastics may squeak, and amenities are sparse, but the mechanical simplicity means low running costs and high smiles per gallon.
The CRX Mk2 is a global icon:
A tuner legend in the US and Japan
A boy-racer favorite in late '90s Britain
A respected track-day weapon for the grassroots motorsport scene
Loved by purists, modders, and nostalgic enthusiasts alike
It’s a car that bridges generations. Young car fans still admire it today, and older gearheads remember it as one of the last great analog Hondas.
| Category | Rating (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Driving Fun | 10 |
| Styling (Classic) | 9 |
| Reliability | 9 |
| Modding Potential | 10 |
| Practicality | 6 |
| Classic Status | 9 |
The Honda CRX Mk2 is the epitome of a lightweight, agile, and endlessly tunable sports coupe. Whether left stock or heavily modified, it delivers raw thrills and pure connection with the road. A proper future classic that already commands respect—and absolutely deserves it.