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Honda Civic (1972-79)

Production Total: The first-generation Honda Civic, which includes the 1200 model, was produced from July 1972 to June 1979. During this period, Honda manufactured approximately 1.2 million units of the first-generation Civic.
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Price New: In the UK, the Honda Civic 1200 was priced at around £1,200 when it was first introduced in 1972. This made it an affordable and appealing option for many buyers at the time.
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Rivals
During the 1970s, the Honda Civic faced competition from several other compact cars. Here are the approximate prices of its primary rivals at that time:

- **Ford Escort**: Around £1,000
- **Vauxhall Viva**: Around £1,100
- **Morris Marina**: Around £1,200
- **Toyota Corolla**: Around £1,300
- **Datsun 120Y**: Around £1,200

These prices made the Honda Civic a competitive option in the compact car market of the 1970s.
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Recorded on UK Road 2025
As of 2025, there are only a few Honda Civic 1200s from the 1970s still recorded on UK roads. The exact number can vary, but it's estimated to be in the low hundreds. These classic cars have become quite rare and are often cherished by enthusiasts and collectors.
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Honda Civic (1972-79)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The Honda Civic 1200 from the 1970s, like many classic cars, had its share of common faults. Here are a few issues that owners often encountered:

1. **Rust**: One of the most common problems with older Honda Civics is rust, particularly around the wheel arches, sills, and floor pans.
2. **Carburettor Issues**: The carburettor could sometimes become clogged or require adjustment, leading to poor engine performance.
3. **Electrical Problems**: Issues with the electrical system, such as faulty wiring or problems with the alternator, were not uncommon.
4. **Cooling System**: The cooling system could sometimes be problematic, with issues like radiator leaks or thermostat failures.
5. **Suspension Wear**: Over time, the suspension components, such as bushings and shock absorbers, could wear out and require replacement.

Despite these issues, many enthusiasts appreciate the Honda Civic 1200 for its simplicity and reliability. If you're considering owning one, regular maintenance and addressing these common faults can help keep it running smoothly.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The Honda Civic has gone through several generations since its introduction in 1972. Here’s a brief overview of each generation and some of the common trim levels:

### Generations
1. **First Generation (1972-1979)**: Introduced as a two-door fastback sedan and a three-door hatchback.
2. **Second Generation (1979-1983)**: Featured a more angular design and improved interior space.
3. **Third Generation (1983-1987)**: Introduced the CRX variant and a more modern design.
4. **Fourth Generation (1987-1991)**: Known for its improved aerodynamics and the introduction of the VTEC engine.
5. **Fifth Generation (1991-1995)**: Featured a more rounded design and further advancements in engine technology.
6. **Sixth Generation (1995-2000)**: Introduced the Civic Type R and continued to improve performance and safety features.
7. **Seventh Generation (2000-2005)**: Marked a shift towards a more refined and comfortable design.
8. **Eighth Generation (2005-2011)**: Known for its futuristic design and improved fuel efficiency.
9. **Ninth Generation (2011-2015)**: Focused on improving interior quality and ride comfort.
10. **Tenth Generation (2015-2022)**: Featured a more aggressive design and advanced technology.
11. **Eleventh Generation (2022-present)**: Continues to build on the Civic’s reputation for reliability and performance.

### Trim Levels
The trim levels can vary by market and model year, but some common ones include:
- **DX**: The base model with essential features.
- **LX**: Adds more comfort and convenience features.
- **EX**: Includes additional luxury and technology features.
- **Si**: A sportier version with performance enhancements.
- **Type R**: The high-performance variant with significant upgrades in power and handling.

The Honda Civic has evolved significantly over the years, maintaining its reputation for reliability and performance.
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Engines
The Honda Civic 1200 from the 1970s was equipped with a 1.2-liter, naturally aspirated, single overhead camshaft (SOHC) engine. This engine was a 4-cylinder unit that produced around 50-60 horsepower, depending on the specific model year and market. It was known for its reliability and efficiency, which contributed to the Civic's popularity.

The engine specifications included:
- **Displacement**: 1.2 liters (1170 cc)
- **Power Output**: Approximately 50-60 horsepower
- **Torque**: Around 68-93 Nm (50-69 lb-ft)
- **Valve Configuration**: SOHC with 2 valves per cylinder

These engines were designed to be economical and easy to maintain, making the Civic 1200 a practical choice for many drivers at the time.
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Performance
The performance of the Honda Civic 1200 from the 1970s was modest by today's standards, but it was quite respectable for its time. Here are some key performance figures:

- **Top Speed**: Approximately 85 mph (137 km/h)
- **0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) Acceleration**: Around 14-15 seconds
- **Fuel Economy**: Approximately 30-35 miles per gallon (mpg) or 7.8-9.4 litters per 100 kilometres (L/100 km)

The Civic 1200 was designed to be an economical and practical car, rather than a high-performance vehicle. Its lightweight construction and efficient engine made it a popular choice for everyday driving.
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Designer/Dimensions
The first-generation Honda Civic, including the 1200 model, was designed by Hiroshi Kizawa and Shinya Iwakura.

### Dimensions of the Honda Civic 1200:
- **Wheelbase**: 2,200 mm (86.6 inches)
- **Length**: 3,405 mm (134.1 inches)
- **Width**: 1,505 mm (59.3 inches)
- **Height**: 1,325 mm (52.2 inches)
- **Curb Weight**: Approximately 600 kg (1,323 lbs)

These dimensions contributed to the Civic's compact and practical design, making it a popular choice for urban driving.
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Spares/Specialists
For locating spare parts for the Honda Civic 1200 in the UK and Ireland, you have several options:

1. **Honda Direct Parts**: They offer genuine Honda parts and accessories with next-day delivery options on stock items. You can check out their website [here](https://hondadirectparts.co.uk/).
2. **Parts-Honda.uk**: This site provides genuine parts for various Honda models, including the Civic. You can find more information [here](https://www.parts-honda.uk/honda-cars/CIVIC).
3. **BuyCarParts.co.uk**: They offer a wide range of parts and accessories for different Honda Civic models. You can explore their catalog [here](https://www.buycarparts.co.uk/honda-civic).

### Garage Services in Northern Ireland
For garage services for your Honda Civic 1200 in Northern Ireland, here are a few options:

1. **Commons Brae Garage**: Located at 188 Saintfield Road, Belfast. They are a trusted car repair establishment. You can contact them at 028 9543 8739.
2. **Donnelly Honda Belfast**: They have multiple locations across Northern Ireland and offer comprehensive services for Honda vehicles. You can find more details [here](https://www.donnellygroup.co.uk/honda/locations/belfast/?utm_source=Local%20-%20HondaBelfast&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=GMB).
3. **ClickMechanic**: They provide Honda repairs in Northern Ireland with next-day service at your door. You can get an instant quote and book online [here](https://www.clickmechanic.com/locations/northern-ireland/honda).

These resources should help you find the parts and services you need for your classic Honda Civic 1200.
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Racing
Yes, the Honda Civic 1200 did compete in racing! One notable example is the Team Yamato SB1, which was the world's first racing Civic. This car was entered into the Minor Touring class of the Fuji Grand Champion series in Japan. Despite being front-wheel-drive and less aerodynamic than its rear-wheel-drive competitors, the Team Yamato Civic won the championship twice, in 1981 and 1983.

In the United States, Bob Boileau built the first American Honda racecar using a Civic 1200 and went on to win six SCCA GT5 championships.
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Valuation
The value of a Honda Civic 1200 from the 1970s can vary significantly based on its condition, mileage, and originality. Generally, a well-maintained and restored Honda Civic 1200 can be worth anywhere from £5,000 to £10,000 in the UK.

Classic car values can fluctuate, so it's always a good idea to check current listings and consult with classic car experts or clubs for the most accurate valuation. If you're considering buying or selling one, make sure to get a professional appraisal.
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