Looking for a Honda del Sol for sale? You’ve picked a fun little car with a cult following. It’s a compact, targa-top two-seater that still turns heads decades after it left showrooms.
- What Is the Honda Del Sol?
- Why the Del Sol Stands Out
- Trims and Engine Options
- Basic Specs Overview
- What to Look For When Buying Used
- Common Issues to Know About
- Price Range: What Should You Pay?
- Why Collectors Love the Del Sol
- Is the Del Sol a Good Investment?
- Tips for a Smart Purchase
- Where to Find One for Sale
- Final Thoughts
Here’s the thing. The del Sol isn’t your average used Honda. It’s part sports car, part daily driver, and it comes with an open-air feel that’s hard to find at this price. Let’s break down what makes it special and what to check before you hand over your cash.
What Is the Honda Del Sol?
The Honda del Sol, officially the Honda CR-X del Sol, is a two-seater with a removable roof panel. Honda built it from 1992 to 1998. It replaced the popular Honda CR-X and shared a lot with the Civic of that era.
To be honest, the name gets confusing. In some markets it was badged as the Civic del Sol. Either way, you’re looking at the same car.
A Quick History Lesson
Honda launched the del Sol as the successor to the CR-X. The CR-X was a beloved sporty hatch, so the del Sol had big shoes to fill.
Instead of a hatchback, Honda went with a targa top. You lift out the roof panel and store it in the trunk. It’s not a full convertible, but it gives you most of that open-air thrill.
Why the Del Sol Stands Out
What’s interesting is how the del Sol mixes practicality with fun. It’s small, light, and easy to park. Yet it still feels sporty on a twisty road.
The removable roof is the big selling point. On a sunny day, you pop the panel off and enjoy the breeze without the wind buffeting you get in a full convertible.
Trims and Engine Options
The del Sol came in a few different trims across its run. Knowing the differences helps when you spot a Honda del Sol for sale online.
The S Trim
This was the base model. It focused on affordability and everyday driving. Nothing flashy, but reliable and cheap to run.
The Si Trim
The Si stepped things up with a more powerful engine. If you want a bit more punch, this is the one to look for.
The VTEC Trim
Here’s where it gets exciting. The VTEC version packed Honda’s high-revving engine. It’s the most sought-after by enthusiasts, and prices reflect that.
Basic Specs Overview
The del Sol was Civic-based, so it kept things light and simple. Most versions used four-cylinder engines paired with a manual or automatic gearbox.
- Body style: Two-seater targa top
- Production years: 1992 to 1998
- Platform: Based on the fifth-gen Honda Civic
- Roof: Removable panel stored in the trunk
Because it’s light, fuel economy is decent and handling feels nimble. That’s part of the charm.
What to Look For When Buying Used
Buying any car from the 1990s takes a little patience. These cars are getting old, so condition matters more than mileage alone.
Here’s the thing: a well-kept del Sol with higher miles often beats a neglected one with low miles. Always check service history if you can.
Check the Roof Seals
The targa top is great, but the seals wear out over time. Look for water stains inside the cabin or a musty smell. Leaks are common and can be a pain to fix.
Inspect for Rust
Rust is the enemy of any older car. Check the wheel arches, the floor pans, and around the roof channels. Surface rust is manageable, but structural rust is a deal-breaker.
Test the Electrics
Some del Sols came with a power roof mechanism called the TransTop. It’s rare and often broken. If the car has it, test it fully before buying.
Standard manual roofs are simpler and more reliable. Most buyers actually prefer them.
Common Issues to Know About
No car is perfect, and the del Sol has a few quirks worth flagging. None of these should scare you off, but they’re good to know.
Roof Rattles and Leaks
As mentioned, the seals age. Expect some rattling and possible leaks on higher-mileage cars. Replacement seals are available and not too pricey.
Worn Suspension
After decades on the road, the suspension bushings and shocks wear down. A tired del Sol will feel loose. Budget for some refresh work if needed.
Aging Interior Plastics
The dashboard and trim can crack or fade, especially on cars kept in the sun. It’s cosmetic, but it affects the vibe inside.
Price Range: What Should You Pay?
Prices vary a lot based on condition, trim, and mileage. A rough project car might be cheap, while a clean VTEC example can cost real money.
To be honest, the market has been climbing. These cars are becoming collectible, so bargains are getting rarer. When you find a Honda del Sol for sale in great shape, expect to pay a premium.
Budget Buyers
If you just want an affordable, fun weekend car, look at the S trim. These tend to be the most wallet-friendly.
Enthusiast Buyers
Chasing the VTEC or a pristine Si? Be ready to spend more and act fast. Clean examples sell quickly.
Why Collectors Love the Del Sol
What’s interesting is how this car went from forgotten to desirable. For years it was cheap and overlooked. Now enthusiasts appreciate its unique design and Honda reliability.
The targa top, the light chassis, and that classic Honda engineering all add up. It’s a modern classic that’s still usable as a daily driver.
Is the Del Sol a Good Investment?
Values have been trending up, especially for clean, low-mileage cars. That said, buy one because you love it, not just for profit.
A well-maintained del Sol should hold its value. Just factor in upkeep costs for an older vehicle.
Tips for a Smart Purchase
Before you finalize any Honda del Sol for sale, do your homework. A little effort now saves headaches later.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
- Check for modifications — some are fine, others hurt reliability
- Confirm the title is clean and paperwork matches
- Test both the manual roof and any electric features
- Compare listings so you know a fair price
Notice the difference between a car that’s been loved and one that’s been thrashed. It usually shows in the little details.
Where to Find One for Sale
You’ll spot del Sols on classic car sites, enthusiast forums, and general marketplaces. Enthusiast communities often have the best-kept examples.
Here’s a quick tip: join a Honda del Sol owners group before you buy. Members often share leads and warn you about bad sellers.
Final Thoughts
The Honda del Sol is a fun, affordable, and increasingly collectible car. If you want open-air driving with legendary Honda reliability, it’s a great pick. Just inspect carefully, check the roof seals, and buy the best condition you can afford.
If you want to read more about its full history and specs, the Honda CR-X del Sol Wikipedia page is a solid place to start. Then start your search, take your time, and enjoy the hunt for the perfect Honda del Sol for sale.
