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10 Hondas From the 90s That Deserve More Respect

Cameron Eittreim October 11, 2025

The 1990s were a transformative decade for Honda, marked by groundbreaking engineering and innovative vehicle designs. This era saw the introduction of models that not only redefined performance standards but also showcased Honda’s commitment to technological advancement. From the pioneering VTEC engines to the sleek lines of the NSX, these vehicles left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. In this article, we delve into ten underrated Honda models from the 90s that merit greater appreciation for their unique contributions to the automotive world.

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1. Honda Prelude (Fourth Generation, 1992-1996)

The fourth-generation Honda Prelude, produced from 1992 to 1996, introduced significant technological advancements, including the Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS) and a VTEC engine, enhancing its performance and handling. Despite these innovations, it often remains overshadowed by more popular sport coupes of its era. MotorTrend’s review highlights the Prelude’s sharp handling and technological prowess, noting its status as one of the sharpest in its class during its time. (motortrend.com)

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2. Honda Accord Wagon (1991-1997)

12 1991 honda accord station wagon down on the junkyard picture courtesy of murilee martin — Photo Credit: Copart

The Honda Accord Wagon, produced from 1991 to 1997, combined practicality with a stylish design, offering a more engaging drive compared to its rivals like the Toyota Camry Wagon. (caranddriver.com) Despite its merits, it often remains overlooked in favor of more popular family cars. (hagerty.com)

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3. Honda CR-X del Sol (1992-1998)

The Honda CR-X del Sol, produced from 1992 to 1998, was a distinctive targa-topped roadster that offered a unique blend of sporty handling and open-air enjoyment. Despite its engaging performance, it often remained overshadowed by competitors like the Mazda MX-5 Miata. A detailed analysis in Road & Track highlights the del Sol’s fun-to-drive personality and its innovative design, noting its appeal to enthusiasts seeking a compact, spirited driving experience. (jcwhitney.com)

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4. Honda Civic VX (1992-1995)

A 1992 Honda Civic VX hatchback, showcasing its sleek design and lightweight alloy wheels. | Image from www.rawpixel.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda Civic VX, produced from 1992 to 1995, featured an advanced lean-burn engine that achieved exceptional fuel economy, with EPA ratings of 39 mpg city and 49 mpg highway. (fueleconomy.gov) Despite its eco-friendly virtues and lightweight build, it often remains overlooked among hot hatch enthusiasts. (motorbiscuit.com)

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5. Honda Accord SiR (Japanese Domestic Market, 1994-1997)

The Honda Accord SiR, produced exclusively for the Japanese domestic market from 1994 to 1997, was a high-performance variant that featured the acclaimed H22A DOHC VTEC engine. This engine delivered 190 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 152 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 rpm, offering superior power compared to U.S. models. (en.wikipedia.org) The Accord SiR also boasted a sport-tuned chassis with stiffer front and rear sway bars, as well as enhanced coil springs, enhancing its handling capabilities. (blog.kingmotorsports.com) Despite these performance enhancements, the Accord SiR remains largely unknown to American enthusiasts, who are often unaware of its existence. (en.wikipedia.org)

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6. Honda Integra GS-R (1994-2001)

Honda Integra Type R 3 Scaled — A sleek Honda Integra GS-R with a VTEC engine, showcasing its sporty compact design. | Image from heritagewheel.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Honda Integra GS-R, produced from 1994 to 2001, was celebrated for its high-revving B18C1 VTEC engine, delivering 170 horsepower at 7,600 rpm. (deseret.com) This engine provided a thrilling driving experience, complemented by precise handling and a well-tuned suspension. (caranddriver.com) While the Type R variant often garnered more attention, the GS-R offered comparable performance with everyday usability, making it a well-rounded choice for enthusiasts seeking both excitement and practicality. (roadandtrack.com)

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7. Honda Accord Coupe (1994-1997)

Currentproduct — 2003 Honda Accord Coupe

The mid-1990s Honda Accord Coupe, produced from 1994 to 1997, was celebrated for its refined design and excellent build quality. Often overshadowed by its sedan counterpart, this model offered a stylish and subtly sporty alternative. Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book highlight its reliability and comfort, with owners praising its performance and value. (kbb.com) The coupe’s sleek lines and engaging driving experience made it a noteworthy choice for those seeking both style and substance.

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8. Honda Odyssey (First Generation, 1995-1998)

The first-generation Honda Odyssey, produced from 1995 to 1998, was a compact minivan that stood out for its innovative design and car-like handling. It featured flexible seating arrangements, including a third-row seat that folded flat into the floor, enhancing cargo space and versatility. (autoweek.com) Despite the evolving minivan market, its clever design remains underappreciated. Insights from Autoweek highlight its practicality and the thoughtful engineering behind its design. (autoweek.com)

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9. Honda Civic Shuttle (Wagon, 1988-1991, continued into early 90s)

The Honda Civic Shuttle, known as the Civic Wagon in the United States, was produced from 1988 to 1991 and continued into the early 1990s in some markets. This compact wagon featured a practical design with a spacious interior and flexible seating arrangements, including a 50/50 split-folding rear seat that reclined to four different positions. (en.wikipedia.org)

One of its standout features was the availability of an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option, providing enhanced traction and versatility. The AWD system, known as “Real-Time 4WD,” engaged the rear wheels automatically when the front wheels detected slippage, making it suitable for various driving conditions. (en.wikipedia.org)

Despite its innovative design and utility, the Civic Shuttle remains largely forgotten in the automotive world. Its combination of practicality and versatility presaged the compact crossover segment that would gain popularity in later years. (en.wikipedia.org)

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10. Honda Legend Coupe (1991-1996)

The Honda Legend Coupe, produced from 1991 to 1996, was a luxurious two-door vehicle that combined refined styling with a smooth 3.2-liter V6 engine, delivering 202 horsepower and 216 lb-ft of torque. (encycarpedia.com) Its elegant design and premium features positioned it alongside luxury competitors, yet it often remains overlooked in favor of European brands. (journal.classiccars.com)

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Lasting Legacy of 90s Hondas

The 1990s were a pivotal decade for Honda, producing models that combined innovation, performance, and reliability. Vehicles like the Prelude Type SH, Integra GS-R, and Accord Coupe showcased Honda’s engineering prowess and continue to offer value and enjoyment to enthusiasts today. These often-overlooked gems deserve renewed appreciation for their enduring qualities and contributions to automotive history. Exploring these models reveals a rich legacy that still resonates with driving enthusiasts.

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