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Honda Concerto: A Comprehensive Guide
The Honda Concerto is a subcompact car produced by Honda from 1988 to 1994. It was designed as a more upscale offering compared to the Civic, filling a niche between the Civic and the Accord. While primarily sold in Europe and Japan, it offered a blend of practicality, refinement, and Honda's renowned engineering, making it a sought-after vehicle in its time and a potentially interesting classic today.
Generations
The Concerto only saw one major generation, although there were some minor updates throughout its production run.
First Generation (1988-1994)
- Launch (1988): The Concerto debuted as a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback. It was based on a stretched Civic platform and featured independent front and rear suspension, offering a more comfortable ride than the Civic. Engine options varied depending on the market, but generally included 1.4L, 1.5L, and 1.6L gasoline engines, as well as a 1.6L diesel.
- Styling: The exterior was characterized by a clean, understated design. Interior materials were a step up from the Civic, featuring plusher seats and more sound insulation.
- Trim Levels: Trim levels varied by market, but generally included base models, LX, EX, and in some regions, more luxurious variants with features like power windows, sunroof, and air conditioning.
- Rover Collaboration: Significant was Honda's collaboration with Rover, resulting in the Rover 200/400 series sharing the Concerto's platform and some mechanical components. The Rover versions often featured different styling and interior appointments.
- Facelift (1993-1994): A minor facelift was introduced, featuring revised headlights, taillights, and grille. This update aimed to freshen the car's appearance for the final years of production.
Reliability & Common Issues
The Honda Concerto, like many Hondas of its era, is generally considered a reliable car, especially when well-maintained. However, potential buyers should be aware of some common issues:
Engine
- Oil Leaks: Older Honda engines are prone to oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover gasket, distributor o-ring, and rear main seal. Inspect the engine bay and undercarriage for signs of oil leaks.
- Cooling System: Check the cooling system for leaks, corrosion, and proper operation. The radiator, hoses, and thermostat can deteriorate over time. Overheating can lead to head gasket failure, so this is crucial.
- Ignition System: The distributor cap, rotor, spark plugs, and ignition wires can wear out, leading to misfires and poor performance. Regular maintenance of the ignition system is essential.
- Timing Belt: The 1.6L engines are interference engines, meaning that if the timing belt breaks, the pistons can collide with the valves, causing significant engine damage. The timing belt should be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommended interval (typically every 60,000 miles or 100,000 km).
Transmission
- Manual Transmissions: Manual transmissions are generally robust, but check for smooth shifting and any signs of grinding or slipping. Worn synchros can cause difficulty shifting into certain gears.
- Automatic Transmissions: Automatic transmissions can be more prone to issues, especially if not properly maintained. Check for smooth shifting and any signs of slipping or harsh engagement. Regular fluid changes are crucial. Listen for unusual noises during gear changes.
Suspension & Brakes
- Suspension: Inspect the suspension components for wear and tear, including ball joints, bushings, and shocks/struts. Worn suspension components can lead to poor handling and a rough ride.
- Brakes: Check the brake pads, rotors, and calipers for wear and tear. Ensure that the brakes are functioning properly and that the ABS (if equipped) is working correctly. Brake lines can also corrode over time.
Electrical System
- Electrical Issues: Older Hondas can experience electrical issues due to corrosion and wear. Check the operation of all electrical components, including the lights, wipers, windows, and air conditioning.
- Grounding Issues: Poor grounding can lead to a variety of electrical problems. Ensure that all grounding points are clean and secure.
Body & Interior
- Rust: Rust is a common problem on older cars, especially in regions with harsh winters. Check for rust on the body panels, undercarriage, and suspension components. Pay particular attention to the wheel arches, sills, and around the windshield and rear window.
- Interior Condition: The interior can show signs of wear and tear over time. Check the seats, carpets, and dashboard for damage. Ensure that all interior components are functioning properly.
Driving Experience
The Honda Concerto offers a balanced driving experience, blending practicality with a touch of refinement. It's not a sports car, but it is generally enjoyable to drive.
Pros:
- Comfortable Ride: The independent suspension provides a comfortable ride, making it suitable for daily commuting and longer trips.
- Fuel Efficiency: The smaller engines offer good fuel economy, making it an economical choice.
- Reliability: Hondas of this era are known for their reliability, provided they are properly maintained.
- Spacious Interior: The Concerto offers a relatively spacious interior for a subcompact car, with decent headroom and legroom.
- Easy to Drive: The light steering and responsive engine make the Concerto easy to drive in urban environments.
Cons:
- Performance: The smaller engines can feel underpowered, especially when carrying passengers or cargo.
- Age: Being an older car, it may require more maintenance and repairs.
- Availability: The Concerto is not as common as the Civic, so finding parts and knowledgeable mechanics may be more challenging.
- Rust: Rust can be a significant problem, especially on cars that have been exposed to harsh weather conditions.
- Safety Features: Safety features are limited compared to modern cars.
Buying Advice
If you're considering buying a Honda Concerto, here's some advice:
Years to Look For:
- Later Models (1993-1994): The facelifted models may offer some minor improvements and are generally in slightly better condition due to their age.
What to Avoid:
- Excessive Rust: Avoid cars with significant rust, as repairs can be costly.
- Poor Maintenance History: Avoid cars with a poor maintenance history, as they may have underlying mechanical problems.
- High Mileage: Cars with very high mileage may require more extensive repairs.
- Modified Vehicles: Avoid cars that have been heavily modified, as this can compromise their reliability.
Pre-Purchase Inspection:
- Thorough Inspection: Have a mechanic perform a thorough inspection of the car before you buy it. This will help you identify any potential problems.
- Check for Leaks: Check for oil leaks, coolant leaks, and brake fluid leaks.
- Test Drive: Take the car for a test drive to assess its performance and handling.
- Check the Paperwork: Verify the car's history, including its mileage, ownership, and any accident reports.
Pricing:
- Market Value: Research the market value of the Honda Concerto in your area. Prices can vary depending on the car's condition, mileage, and location.
- Negotiate: Be prepared to negotiate the price. Don't be afraid to walk away if you're not comfortable with the price.
Ultimately, a well-maintained Honda Concerto can be a reliable and enjoyable classic car. With careful inspection and diligent maintenance, it can provide years of service.
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