Hi gang- I bought a 1975 1st gen Civic Hondamatic a few months back for $800 and I couldn't be happier with it. Well, I could be but it's been a sweet deal so far. Hardly any rust, original everything except headlights, 208k on the clock.

I recently "upgraded" the wheels and tires to 1st gen Accord 13" steelies (blasted and powdercoated), but I kept the original 12" wheels and tires. It was originally sold from a local dealership so I'm guessing it's been a local car all this time. I have big plans for it; engine/trans swap, BC Coilovers, 4x100 swap. BUT, I'm not a mechanic. I've had a bunch of cars and have worked on them, but I don't have any formal training and I've never opened up an engine. I have lots to learn. I think i have a lot of knowledge just as a lifelong enthusiast and wrenching on my own cars, but I'm hoping to learn more as I work on this car.

 

Nice shape for it's age. Good luck with the build.

 

Welcome to the forum and congratulations on your purchase and the deal! Glad to hear you're enjoying your new ride! Sounds like you've got some nice plans for it. Good luck and keep us posted on the updates!

 

Nice ride! Cheers from Vegas!

 

Hey gang-
I've mostly been on the 1stgencivic forum where they're obviously more focused on these models. In the time since I introduced myself, my plans have been shall we say, more reasonable. Still going for a 4x100 swap, but might hold off on the BC Coilovers. I'm now in talks with a guy (many people have vouched for on the forum) in building me an engine. Nothing wild, maybe 65hp. Swapping to a manual trans, too- either 4 or 5 speed, I'm not too partial. I won't be putting more than 2-3k on it per year.
I wanted to see if anyone here knows for sure if any 1st gen Civic or Accord manual trans will bolt up as I've read in a few different places on the 1stGen forum. If any of those DO bolt up, will i still need 1st gen shift linkage? I have linkage for a 1st gen 5 speed CVCC. Seems like that would work since the chassis dimensions is what counts.

Anyways- it looks the same except I now have 1st gen Accord wheels on it with new rubber. Had those blasted and powdered with a stock color. Hilarious that 13" wheels are an upgrade