1975 Honda Civic CVCC
Generously Lent by Ken & Sue Weidner
Motor Trend's Car of the Year in 1974.
One of the first mass-produced vehicles to prioritize fuel efficiency and emissions control.
Beautifully restored in 2000, the color was changed from Sunburst Orange to this bright Fern Green.
In the 1970s, Honda made a significant mark on the American automotive landscape with the introduction of the Civic CVCC. This compact car, launched in 1973, was not only a response to the growing demand for fuel-efficient vehicles but also a pioneering model in terms of emissions control technology.
The Civic CVCC, which stands for "Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion," was designed to meet stringent emissions standards without the need for a catalytic converter. This innovative system utilized a stratified charge engine that allowed the Civic to burn fuel more efficiently, reducing emissions of harmful pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons. As a result, the Civic CVCC became the first car to meet the stringent emissions standards set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) without the need for a catalytic converter.
Beyond its environmental significance, the Civic CVCC played a crucial role in establishing Honda as a major player in the American automotive market. At a time when domestic automakers dominated the industry, Honda's compact and fuel-efficient offering appealed to a new generation of consumers looking for affordable and reliable transportation. The Civic CVCC quickly gained a reputation for its durability, efficiency, and low maintenance costs, winning over American drivers and earning numerous accolades, including Motor Trend's Car of the Year award in 1974.
Throughout the 1970s, the Civic CVCC underwent several updates and improvements, reflecting Honda's commitment to continuous innovation. By the end of the decade, the Civic had solidified its position as one of the best-selling import cars in the United States. Practical and efficient, the Civic CVCC became a symbol of Honda's excellent engineering and commitment to technological innovation.
Despite its compact size, the Civic CVCC offered a surprisingly spacious interior with seating for up to four passengers. It also featured a simple and functional dashboard layout. Multiple trim levels were available including the base model and higher-end variants with additional features such as air conditioning and upgraded upholstery.
Overall, the 1975 Honda Civic CVCC offered a winning combination of fuel efficiency, innovative technology, and practicality, making it a popular choice among consumers seeking economical transportation during a time of rising fuel prices and environmental concerns.
Specifications
Engine: 1.5-liter inline-four engine producing 53 hp, using an innovative Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion (CVCC) system, which allowed it to meet strict emissions standards without the need for a catalytic converter.
Transmission: Four-speed manual transmission. An optional two-speed Hondamatic automatic transmission was also available.
Brakes: Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.
Suspension: Independent MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion bar rear suspension.
Fuel Economy: 40-50 mpg, making it extremely economical to operate during the oil crisis of the 1970s.