History of the Honda Accord

The Honda Accord has been good to us. Since the late 70s, the Accord has been a dependable option in the small to midsize car market. Of course, the Accord has also gone through some big changes through the years. If you look at the first-generation Accord, you wouldn’t even recognize it compared to today’s model. But, it’s true that things get better with age. And every year, Honda was tweaking the car to make it the outstanding ride it is today. Let’s take a little stroll down memory lane through the history of the Honda Accord – and it’s nine generations of models.

First Generation (1976-1981) This is where it all began for the Accord – as a three-door hatchback with a 1.6-liter engine that had output of a meager 68 horsepower. But, you could purchase one for just $3,995, so who was complaining?

Second Generation (1982-1985) Even back then, the Accord was registering outstanding fuel economy at 40 mpg on the highway – which is what started to bring consumers to the brand. And fuel injection in 1985 changed the game and allowed the Accord to increase its output to 101 horsepower.

Third Generation (1986-1989) The Accord started to get bigger in these years, and the hatch disappeared in favor of a two-door coupe. The ‘86 was also the first model produced entirely in the states.

Fourth Generation (1990-1993) Bigger continues to be the theme as the Accord grows in length again, officially entering the midsize segment. A new 2.2 engine means 130 horsepower output.

Fifth Generation (1994-1997) The popularity of the Accord is impossible to deny at this point, as it gets more interior room and the first iteration of its Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control – known at VTEC.

Sixth Generation (1998-2002) This is when the Accord gets its sleek look and becomes more of the car we see today. It also gets standard dual front airbags and becomes a safer options for families as well.

Seventh Generation (2003-2007) Again, the Accord gets a little bigger, offering more interior room, meaning a more comfortable ride for passengers and more room for cargo. The Accord has now become a top choice in the midsize segment.

Eighth Generation (2008-2012) The Accord gets an even sleeker look and starts to become a top choice for those looking for a head-turning vehicle.

Ninth Generation (2013-present) Honda founda  way to make the Accord bigger inside, while reducing the exterior size, which makes the Accord easier to drive and more comfortable to sit in.