1996 Honda Del Sol: A Sporty Coupe Revival

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The 1990s was a great time for car enthusiasts, with the rise of sporty coupes that combined style, performance, and affordability. One such vehicle that stood out from the crowd was the 1996 Honda Del Sol. In this article, we'll delve into the history of the Del Sol, its design and features, performance, and why it remains a beloved classic among car enthusiasts today.

History of the Honda Del Sol

The Honda Del Sol was first introduced in 1992 as a replacement for the popular CR-X model. The name "Del Sol" is Spanish for "of the sun," which reflected the car's sporty and carefree personality. The Del Sol was designed to appeal to a younger demographic, with a focus on style, performance, and affordability.

Over the years, the Del Sol underwent several updates and revisions, with the 1996 model being one of the most popular and sought-after among collectors. The 1996 Del Sol was available in several trim levels, including the base model, Si, and VTEC.

Design and Features

The 1996 Honda Del Sol was a head-turner, with its sleek and aerodynamic design that set it apart from other coupes on the market. The car featured a distinctive wedge-shaped profile, with a sloping front end and a curved rear hatch. The Del Sol's design was heavily influenced by the Honda Prelude, with a similar nose and tail section.

Inside, the Del Sol offered a range of amenities, including air conditioning, power windows, and a premium sound system. The car also featured a number of safety features, including dual airbags and anti-lock brakes.

Performance

The 1996 Honda Del Sol was available with a range of engine options, including a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder and a 1.6-liter VTEC engine. The VTEC engine produced 125 horsepower and 106 lb-ft of torque, making it a fun and responsive drive.

The Del Sol also featured a range of transmission options, including a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. The car's handling and suspension were also praised for their sportiness and agility.

Special Editions

In 1996, Honda released a special edition Del Sol model, known as the "VTEC" edition. This model featured a number of unique features, including a distinctive yellow and black paint scheme, a sport-tuned suspension, and a set of 15-inch alloy wheels.

Legacy and Collectibility

Today, the 1996 Honda Del Sol is a highly sought-after collector's item, particularly among Honda enthusiasts. The car's unique design, sporty performance, and affordability make it a desirable classic.

If you're looking to purchase a 1996 Honda Del Sol, be prepared to pay a premium price. Clean examples of the car can sell for upwards of $10,000, while rare models like the VTEC edition can fetch even higher prices.

Tips for Buying a 1996 Honda Del Sol

If you're in the market for a 1996 Honda Del Sol, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Look for clean examples with low mileage and no major damage.
• Check the car's history and maintenance records to ensure it's been well cared for.
• Consider purchasing a car with the VTEC engine, as it's more desirable among collectors.
• Be prepared to negotiate, as prices for the Del Sol can vary widely depending on the seller and location.

Conclusion

The 1996 Honda Del Sol is a classic car that remains popular among enthusiasts today. Its unique design, sporty performance, and affordability make it a desirable collector's item. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting your collection, the Del Sol is definitely worth considering.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the 1996 Honda Del Sol. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.

Gallery of 1996 Honda Del Sol