Land of the Rising Sunday: Honda Ballade CR-X Special Edition

Illustration for article titled Land of the Rising Sunday: Honda Ballade CR-X Special Edition

This car was known as the Honda Ballade Sports CR-X in Japan - or simply the CRX in North America. It was made from 1983 to 1987. The car quickly became famous for its performance, handling, fuel economy and reliability.

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Illustration for article titled Land of the Rising Sunday: Honda Ballade CR-X Special Edition

As technology aided economy, Honda appeared to maintain these factors, while gradually increasing hp, quickness, and consequently, prices. Factoring in ideals such as dependability, safety, economy, ins. costs, and of course “fun to drive”, the 1987 CRX Si was later voted car of the decade, import or domestic. 1987 was also the year Honda wrested the prestigious Most Dependable Automobile Manufacturer title from the reigning champion Meredes-Benz. These accolades soon garnered new attention and respect from American buyers.

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Illustration for article titled Land of the Rising Sunday: Honda Ballade CR-X Special Edition

The Japanese Si and European 1.6i-16 models came with a 1590 cc DOHC engine putting out 135 bhp (101 kW; 137 PS) in the UK-spec model and 140 bhp (104 kW; 142 PS) in the JDM model. Though similar versions of the same engine, the Japanese Si engine was stamped ZC, while the European engine was stamped ZC1. Curb weight was only 760–860 kg (1,676–1,896 lb).

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Illustration for article titled Land of the Rising Sunday: Honda Ballade CR-X Special Edition

This Tomica Limited Vintage Neo model depicts the 1983 “Special Edition”. It did not have any extra power, but did offer special trim inside and out.

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Illustration for article titled Land of the Rising Sunday: Honda Ballade CR-X Special Edition

This is #124a in the TLV-N range - #124b is the 1984 Special Edition in white - which looks even more 1980s, if that is possible. As you can see, the model looks a treat, inside and out. In case you are wondering how it compares to the Hot Wheels CRX - it’s a lot smaller, being true 1/64 - and a lot more detailed, naturally.

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Illustration for article titled Land of the Rising Sunday: Honda Ballade CR-X Special Edition

That’s all for today - enjoy the rest of the weekend!

Illustration for article titled Land of the Rising Sunday: Honda Ballade CR-X Special Edition