| Honda Del Sol |
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Honda Del Sol
If you own a Honda Del Sol, you have a budding classic on your hands. Built from 1992-1998, the two-seater targa top model is prized for its design, a fun to drive wind in your face automobile. Based on the Civic platform, the street value of the Del Sol is nearly double that of comparable Honda models, suggesting that the vehicle's long term worth will remain strong for many years to follow.
Originally called the Civic del Sol, Honda eventually dropped the Civic part of its name. With a removable hard top and retractable rear window, the del Sol wasn't a convertible, but it did offer similar sun drenching rewards. Fewer than 75,000 models were sold in the US when the car was replaced by the S2000 roadster for the 1999 model year.
Available in two trim levels - S and Si - the del Sol was powered by a standard 1.5L I4 engine while the Si offered Honda's 1.6L VTEC. The S rode on thirteen inch steel wheels while the Si offered fourteen inch alloy wheels. Cruise control, improved handling and rear disc brakes were some of the upgrades offered through the Si.
First sold in the US in 1993, all del Sol models are of the same design though a mid-model cycle refresh was accomplished for the 1996 model year. A new front bumper and air dam were added with auxiliary headlamps eliminated. That followed key changes introduced for the previous model year such as new seat materials, anti-lock brakes, and the addition of power steering for the first time.
One-third of all USA del Sol sales were realized with the initial 1993 model. In each of the next four years sales steadily declined with 1997 being the final year the car was sold in the US. Japan and Europe continued to sell it for the 1998 model year before Honda canceled the line.
As you might guess, customization of the del Sol has allowed owners to personalize their rides to the degree that they want. Everything from body kits to fiberglass fenders, cut-out grilles, vertical doors, body graphics, carbon fiber wings, bumpers and hood treatments are available for exterior enhancement.
On the inside, del Sol modifiers are embracing dash cover, gauge faces, color coordinated pedals, door inserts, floor mats, seat covers and GPS systems among other changes. Under the hood, all sorts of performance enhancing improvements are available including superchargers, headers, performance exhaust systems, you name it. Lastly, suspension upgrades through lowered springs, coil overs and arm bars are just some of the improvements del Sol enthusiasts want.
Will Honda ever bring the del Sol back? That isn't likely. However, an all new, targa top model is possible, one that might share the spirit of the del Sol without resurrecting its "of the sun" moniker.
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