Home Cars You Could’ve Bought These 10 Legendary Hondas for Pocket Change—Now They’re Collectible Gold

Cars

You Could’ve Bought These 10 Legendary Hondas for Pocket Change—Now They’re Collectible Gold

Cameron Eittreim July 8, 2025

Once upon a time, Honda was synonymous with practicality, reliability, and value rather than exclusivity or collectible appeal. Models that filled suburban driveways and commuter lots throughout the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s were seen as affordable daily drivers, not future classics.
Today, the automotive world is witnessing a remarkable shift. Those humble Hondas—once bought for pocket change—are now coveted treasures, fetching staggering prices at auctions and drawing the attention of enthusiasts worldwide.
Discerning collectors are snapping up these cars, recognizing their unique blend of engineering, nostalgia, and cultural significance. What seemed ordinary yesterday has become iconic—setting the stage for a new era in Honda appreciation.

NEXT >>

1. Honda Civic Si (EF, 1989-1991)

The EF-generation Honda Civic Si stands as a shining example of a car that transformed from accessible tuner to collectible gold. Its lightweight chassis and high-revving 1.6-liter engine delivered nimble handling and infectious driving fun, earning it a loyal fanbase among enthusiasts.
Back in the day, the Civic Si was a bargain—ideal for modifications and weekend canyon runs. But as time passed, clean, unmolested examples became increasingly scarce. Now, collectors pay top dollar for pristine models, with prices rising sharply in recent years.
As Hagerty notes, the EF Si is finally getting the respect—and value—it deserves.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

2. Honda CRX Si

The Honda CRX Si carved out a unique place in automotive history, blending sports car spirit with remarkable practicality. Its featherweight build and sharp suspension made every drive an event, while its legendary fuel economy made it a favorite among budget-minded commuters.
What was once an affordable, unassuming hatchback now excites collectors who appreciate its pure driving experience and iconic ’80s styling. Clean, original CRX Si models are increasingly hard to find, and auction prices reflect their newfound status.
As MotorTrend observes, this once-overlooked city runabout is now a hot ticket in the collector market.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

3. Honda S2000

1280px hondas2000 002 — A sleek Honda S2000 convertible roadster gleams under the sun, its top down and sporty lines on full display. | Photo by Mike Bird on Pexels

The Honda S2000 is a legend among open-top sports cars, celebrated for its screaming VTEC engine and near-perfect balance. With its 2.0-liter powerplant revving up to an astonishing 9000 rpm, the S2000 offered a visceral driving experience that few rivals could match.
Initially, the S2000 was a surprisingly attainable entry into high-performance motoring. But as enthusiasts recognized its engineering brilliance and timeless looks, demand—and prices—have skyrocketed. Early AP1 models are especially coveted for their purist character and raw edge.
According to Road & Track, the S2000’s status as a future classic is now fully realized.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

4. Honda Prelude Si (4th Gen, 1992-1996)

Preludesistates — A sleek Honda Prelude Si coupe stands out with its distinctive lines, showcasing the innovation of four-wheel steering. | Photo by Pixabay on Pexels

The fourth-generation Honda Prelude Si brought advanced engineering and sharp styling to the coupe market. Its standout feature was the innovative four-wheel steering system, which delivered exceptional agility and handling precision—technology far ahead of its time.
Despite these strengths, the Prelude Si was often overshadowed by its more famous siblings and spent years as an underappreciated gem. Today, collectors have taken notice, especially of well-preserved models with original features.
As Car and Driver highlights, this sporty coupe is finally receiving the attention—and rising values—it has long deserved.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

5. Honda Accord EX-R (CB7, Early 1990s)

A well-preserved Honda Accord CB7 vintage sedan gleams under the sunlight, showcasing classic Honda style and timeless charm. | Photo by Vo Huy on Pexels

The early 1990s Honda Accord EX-R, known as the CB7, quietly set the standard for midsize sedans. Renowned for its rock-solid reliability and surprisingly engaging performance, the EX-R delivered a smooth ride, responsive steering, and understated style.
Once a staple of family garages across the country, most have faded away after years of daily duty. But enthusiasts now seek out clean, original examples, valuing their mechanical honesty and classic Honda build quality.
As Jalopnik notes, the CB7 Accord has become a cult classic—rare, desirable, and a true symbol of Honda’s golden era.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

6. Honda Integra Type R (DC2)

2001 Acura Integra Type R Lead Image — A classic Honda DC2 Integra Type R stands out with its sporty lines and performance-focused hatchback design. | Photo by Artur Films on Pexels

The Honda Integra Type R (DC2) is a legend among enthusiasts, famous for its razor-sharp handling and motorsport-inspired engineering. With a high-revving VTEC engine and lightweight chassis, the DC2 delivered a pure, focused driving experience that set benchmarks for front-wheel-drive performance.
Originally, these cars were attainable for those who craved track-day thrills on a budget. Now, their reputation has soared, and pristine examples are hotly pursued by collectors worldwide.
As Top Gear proclaims, the Integra Type R is not just a bargain gone, but a contender for the greatest front-wheel-drive car ever built.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

7. Honda NSX (First Gen)

The first-generation Honda NSX redefined what a supercar could be, blending exotic looks with everyday reliability and comfort. Engineered with input from Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna, the NSX stunned the world with its balanced chassis, lightweight aluminum construction, and thrilling V6 performance.
When new, it was often more affordable than its European rivals, tempting a new breed of enthusiasts into the supercar world. Today, however, the NSX has become a blue-chip collectible, with pristine examples commanding astonishing prices at auction.
As Motor1 notes, the original NSX remains an icon—admired for its engineering genius and timeless appeal.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

8. Honda Beat

Honda Beat 1991 Pictures 1 1578928582 — A vibrant yellow Honda Beat kei car showcases its sporty mid-engine design, parked gleaming under the afternoon sun. | Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels

The Honda Beat is proof that great driving fun can come in a tiny package. This mid-engined kei car, with its rev-happy three-cylinder engine and convertible top, turned everyday commutes into joyful adventures. Its playful character and distinct styling made it stand out, even among Japan’s unique microcar offerings.
Initially, the Beat was little more than a quirky import, beloved by a niche following. But as appreciation for Japanese classics grows, the Beat has become a sought-after cult classic.
As The Drive puts it, the Beat is the mid-engined Japanese kei car we all deserve—now more collectible than ever.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

9. Honda Element

Honda Element Ex Photo 6393 S Original — A bold Honda Element stands out with its boxy design, showcasing the versatility of this unique crossover SUV. | Photo by Matheus Bertelli on Pexels

The Honda Element may have started as a quirky, practical crossover aimed at adventure seekers, but it’s now enjoying a resurgence as a collectible. With its boxy shape, washable interior, and configurable seating, the Element was beloved by dog owners, campers, and anyone drawn to its radical versatility.
For years, it was easy to find an Element on the cheap, but today, enthusiasts prize them for their durability and unique character. Clean, low-mileage examples are especially in demand.
As Autotrader explains, the Element has earned cult status—blending everyday utility with unmistakable style.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

10. Honda Odyssey (First Gen, 1995-1998)

Hondaodyssey 001 — A classic Honda Odyssey minivan gleams in the sunlight, capturing the nostalgic charm of a vintage family car. | Photo by Sarah-Claude Lévesque St-Louis on Pexels

The first-generation Honda Odyssey quietly revolutionized the minivan segment, offering clever packaging and car-like handling that redefined family transportation. Unlike its bulkier rivals, the Odyssey felt nimble and approachable, instantly winning over parents seeking practicality without sacrifice.
For years, these vans were budget buys for growing families, but today, clean and original examples have become a rare sight. Collectors and nostalgists are starting to recognize the Odyssey’s significance, driving renewed interest and rising values.
As The Drive notes, America didn’t know it needed the original Odyssey—now, it’s a cherished classic.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

From Forgotten to Fortune: The Honda Gold Rush

Honda accord aerodeck — A pristine lineup of classic Honda cars draws admirers at a bustling vintage car auction, celebrating automotive history. | Photo by Erik Mclean on Pexels

The meteoric rise in value of these legendary Hondas proves that even the most unassuming cars can become automotive treasures. What was once dismissed as ordinary is now celebrated for its engineering, charm, and cultural impact.
As collectors chase down the cleanest examples, prices continue to climb—turning yesterday’s budget buys into today’s collectible gold. This boom serves as a reminder: the cars parked in our driveways today could be tomorrow’s most coveted classics.
Look twice at the humble Hondas around you—your next fortune might be waiting in plain sight.

.article-content-img img { width: 100% }

<< Previous