Rare Honda CRX Convertible for Sale

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Honda CRX is a highly regarded sport compact car from the 1980s, known for its fun driving experience and impressive performance. In addition to the standard coupe version, there was also a rare convertible variant. Currently, a Honda CRX Straman convertible from 1987 is available for sale in Colorado, and it is in need of a new owner.

This particular Honda CRX Straman is being sold on Facebook Marketplace for $5,800. It features an aftermarket soft-top conversion by Straman Coachworks, a custom shop famous for their Camaro drop-top conversions during the 1980s. As a result, the car has a unique and eye-catching angular design that sets it apart from other vehicles on the road. It is believed that only around 310 examples of the Straman CRX were produced during the decade, and it is even rarer to find one in good condition today.

However, the seller mentions that the Straman CRXs have a flaw - the reinforcing members added to the body to compensate for the roof removal are prone to rusting. This particular example shows significant decay underneath, which will require immediate attention. Despite this issue, the car is still worth saving due to its rarity and appealing appearance. It boasts a handsome blue-over-grey two-tone finish and is equipped with stylish Honda alloy wheels. The soft top matches the body color and seems to be in good condition with a clear rear window. Although it sits high, it has an attractive look that could be enhanced by lowering it.

The seller states that this car is a carbureted model, indicating that it is likely powered by Honda's 1.5-liter EW1 engine. Although the powertrain may not align with what Honda offered in the 1987 model year, it is possible that Straman sold the CRX after a conversion process that involved an older model. The engine is a 12-valve, single-overhead-cam unit that delivers 76 horsepower. While it may not be high-tech by today's standards, the CRX's lightweight construction, weighing under 1,900 pounds, makes it a nimble performer. The convertible version may add some extra weight, but it still remains relatively light compared to modern vehicles. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission for an engaging driving experience.

Inside the car, the interior appears to be well-preserved. The color scheme follows the blue and grey theme of the exterior, and most of the interior components are in good condition. The gauge cluster has the nostalgic orange charm of the 1980s, and it shows a mileage of 113,000 miles. Impressively, there are no major cracks visible on the dashboard, which is notable for a convertible. The stereo system also complements the interior nicely.

Restoring this car to a roadworthy state will not be an easy task, but the investment would be well worth it for enthusiasts of the Radwood era. In the seller's photos, it is evident that time is taking its toll on this rare Honda classic, but there is still hope. By bringing a trailer to Colorado Springs and giving this convertible the attention it deserves, you can ensure that it hits the streets again next summer. We will all be cheering you on as you revive this remarkable cabriolet.

FutureCar Staff