(1986-1989)  Honda Accord Third Generation

The third generation Accord introduced a new body style that looked very much like an earlier Prelude model.  Another new generation change were flip-up headlights, which were found on sedan models.

• A major design change for the car in this generation was the addition of double-wishbones at both the front and rear. They double-wishbones were more expensive than the typical Macpherson struts found in other small to medium size front drive cars.

• Some of the Accord models in this generation had four-wheel disk brakes which came in two different sizes, while other Accord models stayed with the older combination front disk and rear drum introduced in the last generation.

• I  n the rest of the world, except for the United States, you could acquire an Accord with an optional ABS system. Standard United States Accord models had 13-inch wheels while a more expensive Accord car had optional 14 inch alloy wheels. From a first generation minimal Accord interior the third generation cars now being offered you full power leather upholstery, heated seats, heated outside mirrors and an effective climate control unit.

• However because the Accord was targeted and sold as an economy model, these extra options were not available in the United States. No one will ever know how many more cars could have been sold had these options been available in the United States market.

• This Accord generation model line had now increased to an Accod 2-door coupe, an Accord 3-door hatchback, an Accord 4-door sedan and an Accord 3-door station wagon. Engines could be purchased in two versions, a 2.0 liter 98 bhp model or a 2.0 liter 120 bhp Accord version. The Accord transmissions now varied from a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed automatic and the standard 5-speed manual transmission.

• 1988 marked another milestone as an Accord coupe was introduced for the first time in any generation. It was produced in Marysville, Ohio and was a historic because it was  the first Japanese car to be built in a factory in the United States and exported back to Japan. The United States in this generation cars were now being recognized for their very high quality.

At the end of this generation in 1989 the Accord SE-I model was introduced with leather type seats, multiple cup holders, a unique Bose music systems, bronze-shaded glass and unique 14" alloy wheels. The SE-1 in this generation also came with a two-tip  exhaust muffler and for extra safety 4-wheel disc brakes. With it's larger engine and better brakes it became an even better buy. Truly a significant generation

Third Generation Honda Accord