I had a 1990 Civic Si which I purchased new in November 1990. The Si is the sport edition of the economical Civic hatchback. It's not just sportier in looks, but it also has a slightly larger motor as well.

The car was extremely roomy inside in comparison to the outside- a trait which I also find in my 1998 Honda CR-V. I am 6'3" and had more than enough legroom while driving that car. Cargo room was even good with the back seats up. My only gripe was that the hatchbacks weren't designed with rear speakers in mind. I opted for the factory optioned ones and they were mounted so that the outboard rear seatbelts covered them.

The gas mileage was incredible and the car ran like a rolex at 192,000 miles. The only major expense on the car was a new clutch at 173,000- which was really impressive considering I downshifted while braking. Also, make sure if you do purchase one that the valves have been adjusted. A lot of people have Hondas and don't realize that they need valve adjustments. I don't blame those owners too much because most cars (even in 1990) had self-adjusting valves.

If you're looking for a Civic hatchback and looking for a stick shift model, buy the Si. Remember that Civic hatchbacks don't have power steering unless you buy an automatic- a feature not offered on the sporty Si. However, with the Si, you'll get all the standard Civic features plus sport seats w/upgraded upholstery, bigger wheels and tires, tachometer, a power moonroof, and that sweet revving 1.6 liter motor.

The other Civics get a 1.5 with 92hp, while the Si gets a 1.6 liter motor with 108 hp. Eventhough it doesn't sound like much of a difference, a test-drive will let you know there is a huge difference. That's why here in Southern California, the Si model is a rare find. It's extremely popular among street racers and even the non-Si Civics are getting Si engine swaps. There are so many performance parts for this car it'll make your head spin. Too bad for Honda, the Si wasn't recognized as a capable racer until after this design had been discontinued.

Well, that's good for you though. I loved mine when I had it. I sold it to buy my Honda CR-V because my wife and I were expecting our first baby. It's greatly missed and I know that the present owner is happy with it as well. Purchase any Civic and you'll be satisfied but get the Si, and you'll be grinning for years to come.

Amount Paid (US$): 12,500
Condition: New
Model Year: 1990
Model and Options: Si, A/C, all factory accesories