The Honda Civic, a name synonymous with compact, sporty efficiency, has carved out a legendary status in the automotive world. While today's Civics are celebrated for their sportiness and tuning potential, the Civic's origins lie in the 1970s, when it was introduced as an antidote to the gas-guzzling American V8s. It represented a new era of economical, mass-market motoring. This 1979 Honda Civic CVCC Hatchback, a well-preserved all-original example with under 39,000 miles, is a testament to this paradigm shift. Its historical significance makes it a prized possession for collectors who value the transformative impact of the Civic in the automotive landscape.

Engine

Under the hood, the 1979 Honda Civic CVCC is powered by a 1,488ccL inline 4-cylinder engine from Honda's innovative CVCC (Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion) engine line. This engine, breathing through a 3-barrel carburetor, produces a modest 52hp and 68lb-ft of torque, was a marvel of engineering efficiency during the Malaise Era in the United States. It is paired with a two-speed Hondamatic automatic transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. The CVCC engine was designed for improved combustion efficiency, which resonated well in a market increasingly conscious of fuel economy and emissions. This Civic CVCC is not just a car but a symbol of a pivotal era in automotive history.