The 1991 Honda Accord, part of the fourth generation (1990-1993), solidified Honda's reputation for building reliable and well-engineered vehicles. Available as a sedan and coupe, popular trims included the DX, LX, and EX. While new pricing varied, it represented excellent value. Its popularity stemmed from a sophisticated design for its era, a comfortable ride, and legendary Honda dependability, making it a stand-out choice in its segment.
The Good
The 1991 Accord excels in reliability and fuel efficiency, offering a smooth, comfortable ride. Its timeless design appeals to aesthetic sensibilities, while its practical value proposition, low running costs, and durable engineering satisfy the pragmatic buyer. Performance is more than adequate for daily driving.
The Bad
Potential buyers should watch for typical aging vehicle issues like rust, particularly around the wheel wells and rocker panels. Electrical gremlins, such as window regulators and instrument cluster failures, can occur. Transmission issues, especially on automatic models, are also a concern to investigate.
1991 Honda Accord: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1991 Honda Accord primarily featured two engine options: a 2.2-liter inline-4 cylinder engine.
- Horsepower: The standard 2.2L engine produced around 125 horsepower. Some later models or specific trims might have had minor variations.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy was a strong suit for the Accord. Expect figures in the range of 22-25 MPG in the city and 28-32 MPG on the highway, depending on the engine and transmission.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration was respectable for its class. The 0-60 mph time typically ranged from 9 to 10 seconds, providing adequate performance for daily driving.
- Towing Capacity: The 1991 Honda Accord was not designed or rated for towing. Its focus was on passenger transport and economy.
- Trim-Level Features:
- DX: The base trim, offering essential features like power steering, intermittent wipers, and a basic AM/FM radio.
- LX: Added convenience features such as power windows, power door locks, cruise control, and a more advanced audio system.
- EX: The top trim, often including a sunroof, alloy wheels, a premium sound system, and sometimes anti-lock brakes (ABS) as standard or optional.
1991 Honda Accord Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1991 |
| Make | Honda |
| Model | Accord |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | MARYSVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 4000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.2 L 4-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 2.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 4 Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1991 Honda Accord Have?
The 1991 Honda Accord is generally lauded for its long-term reliability, a hallmark of the brand. However, like any vehicle of this age, certain issues are frequently reported by owners. One of the most common concerns is related to the automatic transmission, particularly with higher mileage examples. Issues such as slipping gears, delayed engagement, or complete failure have been noted, often requiring costly repairs or replacement. Regular fluid changes are crucial for mitigating these problems.
Another area to watch for is the exhaust system, which can succumb to rust over time, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Catalytic converters may also fail. Electrical gremlins are not uncommon; issues with power window regulators, door lock actuators, and the instrument cluster backlight failing are frequently mentioned. Some owners have reported problems with the air conditioning system, including compressor failures and refrigerant leaks.
Regarding recalls, it is always advisable to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for any outstanding recalls specific to the 1991 Accord and its VIN. While specific widespread recalls for this model year might be limited, general maintenance and addressing wear-and-tear items are paramount. Long-term reliability is heavily dependent on consistent and proactive maintenance. Owners who have diligently followed service schedules and addressed minor issues promptly have often enjoyed hundreds of thousands of miles from their Accords. Conversely, neglected maintenance can accelerate wear on critical components, leading to more significant and expensive repairs.
Another area to watch for is the exhaust system, which can succumb to rust over time, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Catalytic converters may also fail. Electrical gremlins are not uncommon; issues with power window regulators, door lock actuators, and the instrument cluster backlight failing are frequently mentioned. Some owners have reported problems with the air conditioning system, including compressor failures and refrigerant leaks.
Regarding recalls, it is always advisable to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database for any outstanding recalls specific to the 1991 Accord and its VIN. While specific widespread recalls for this model year might be limited, general maintenance and addressing wear-and-tear items are paramount. Long-term reliability is heavily dependent on consistent and proactive maintenance. Owners who have diligently followed service schedules and addressed minor issues promptly have often enjoyed hundreds of thousands of miles from their Accords. Conversely, neglected maintenance can accelerate wear on critical components, leading to more significant and expensive repairs.
How long will the 1991 Honda Accord last?
Based on owner data and anecdotal evidence, the 1991 Honda Accord demonstrates remarkable long-term durability, often exceeding 200,000 miles and sometimes reaching 300,000 miles or more with consistent maintenance. These vehicles are known to last for 15-20 years of service. Proactive maintenance, including regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and timely replacement of wear items like belts and hoses, is key to achieving this longevity. Weaknesses that tend to emerge over time include potential transmission issues (especially automatics), rust corrosion in certain areas, and the gradual failure of electrical components like power window motors and the instrument cluster. However, the fundamental mechanical robustness of the engine and chassis means that with proper care, these Accords can remain reliable daily drivers for a very long time.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1991 Honda Accord offered a functional suite of technology and safety features for its era, though it lacked the advanced systems found in modern vehicles.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Higher trim levels, particularly the EX, often came with a more sophisticated audio system, sometimes featuring multiple speakers and enhanced sound quality. A power antenna was also a common upgrade.
Built-in Tech: Convenience features were a focus. Power steering was standard across the board. Power windows and power door locks became increasingly common, especially on LX and EX trims. Cruise control was also a popular feature. The instrument cluster provided essential information like speed, RPM, fuel level, and temperature.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features were very rudimentary by today's standards. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an available, though not universally standard, option on some models, particularly higher trims like the EX, offering improved braking control during emergencies.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included seatbelts (with pretensioners becoming more common) and crumple zones designed into the car's structure to absorb impact energy. Airbags were not standard on all models for 1991; driver-side airbags became more prevalent in later years of this generation.
Crash-Test Ratings: Specific crash-test ratings for the 1991 Honda Accord may not be as readily available or detailed as modern tests from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS. However, the fourth-generation Accord was generally considered a safe vehicle for its time, earning good marks in frontal impact tests conducted by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) in its early evaluations. It was praised for its structural integrity and the effectiveness of its safety cage.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player. Higher trim levels, particularly the EX, often came with a more sophisticated audio system, sometimes featuring multiple speakers and enhanced sound quality. A power antenna was also a common upgrade.
Built-in Tech: Convenience features were a focus. Power steering was standard across the board. Power windows and power door locks became increasingly common, especially on LX and EX trims. Cruise control was also a popular feature. The instrument cluster provided essential information like speed, RPM, fuel level, and temperature.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features were very rudimentary by today's standards. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an available, though not universally standard, option on some models, particularly higher trims like the EX, offering improved braking control during emergencies.
Safety Features: Standard safety features included seatbelts (with pretensioners becoming more common) and crumple zones designed into the car's structure to absorb impact energy. Airbags were not standard on all models for 1991; driver-side airbags became more prevalent in later years of this generation.
Crash-Test Ratings: Specific crash-test ratings for the 1991 Honda Accord may not be as readily available or detailed as modern tests from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS. However, the fourth-generation Accord was generally considered a safe vehicle for its time, earning good marks in frontal impact tests conducted by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) in its early evaluations. It was praised for its structural integrity and the effectiveness of its safety cage.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1991 Honda Accord Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1991 Honda Accord typically ranged from approximately $13,000 for the base DX model to over $17,000 for the well-equipped EX trim. Today, used market prices for the 1991 Accord vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and trim level. Expect prices from $2,000 to $5,000 for average examples, with well-maintained, low-mileage gems occasionally fetching more. The Accord has always been a strong performer in depreciation. While it depreciated significantly from its original MSRP, its long-term reliability and demand have helped it hold its value better than many contemporaries. Factors affecting resale value include rust, the condition of the transmission (especially automatics), overall maintenance history, and originality of parts. A clean, rust-free Accord with a well-documented service history will always command a higher price.
1991 Honda Accord Cost of Ownership
The 1991 Honda Accord is remarkably economical to own. Insurance costs are typically low due to its age and common status. Fuel economy is excellent, averaging around 25-30 MPG, making it inexpensive to run daily. Maintenance costs are generally moderate; while parts are readily available and affordable, specialized repairs for aging components can add up. Regular, preventative maintenance is key to avoiding costly breakdowns, particularly with the transmission. Overall, the Accord is a very cost-effective vehicle to own, especially when considering its reliability and longevity, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious drivers.
1991 Honda Accord Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1991 Honda Accord Safety Rating
NHTSA
1991 Honda Accord Insurance
Insurance for a 1991 Honda Accord is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1991 Honda Accord Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1991 Honda Accord competed in a fiercely contested segment, with rivals like the Toyota Camry, Mazda 626, Nissan Altima, and Ford Tempo.
Performance: The Accord's 2.2L engine offered a balanced blend of power and refinement, often outperforming some rivals in overall driving dynamics. The Camry was a close competitor in smoothness, while the 626 often boasted sportier handling. The Altima, introduced later, offered more power.
Features: Honda was known for offering a well-equipped interior for its price point. The Accord's comfortable ride, good ergonomics, and thoughtful design were often highlighted. While rivals also offered competitive features, Honda often struck a sweet spot between luxury and affordability. ABS was an option that not all competitors offered standard or at all.
Reliability: This is where the Accord truly shone. Honda's legendary reliability was already well-established, and the 1991 Accord continued this tradition, often outlasting its competitors in terms of longevity and fewer major mechanical issues. Toyota Camry was a very strong contender in reliability as well, often seen as its closest rival. Nissan and Ford offerings, while good in their own right, generally didn't match the long-term durability reputation of Honda and Toyota.
Price: The Accord was priced competitively, offering excellent value for money. It was often positioned slightly above some more basic offerings but below entry-level luxury cars, providing a premium feel without the premium price tag.
Alternatives:
Similar: The Toyota Camry is a direct and very strong competitor, offering similar reliability and comfort. The Mazda 626 is another good option if a slightly sportier feel is desired, though its long-term reliability might not be as bulletproof.
Better (depending on priorities): If raw power is a priority, the early Nissan Altima might be considered. However, for overall balance of reliability, comfort, and efficiency, the 1991 Accord and its direct Toyota counterpart remain exceptional choices. For budget-focused buyers who prioritize absolute lowest cost, a domestic option like a well-maintained Ford Taurus or Ford Tempo could be considered, but at the expense of long-term reliability.
Performance: The Accord's 2.2L engine offered a balanced blend of power and refinement, often outperforming some rivals in overall driving dynamics. The Camry was a close competitor in smoothness, while the 626 often boasted sportier handling. The Altima, introduced later, offered more power.
Features: Honda was known for offering a well-equipped interior for its price point. The Accord's comfortable ride, good ergonomics, and thoughtful design were often highlighted. While rivals also offered competitive features, Honda often struck a sweet spot between luxury and affordability. ABS was an option that not all competitors offered standard or at all.
Reliability: This is where the Accord truly shone. Honda's legendary reliability was already well-established, and the 1991 Accord continued this tradition, often outlasting its competitors in terms of longevity and fewer major mechanical issues. Toyota Camry was a very strong contender in reliability as well, often seen as its closest rival. Nissan and Ford offerings, while good in their own right, generally didn't match the long-term durability reputation of Honda and Toyota.
Price: The Accord was priced competitively, offering excellent value for money. It was often positioned slightly above some more basic offerings but below entry-level luxury cars, providing a premium feel without the premium price tag.
Alternatives:
Similar: The Toyota Camry is a direct and very strong competitor, offering similar reliability and comfort. The Mazda 626 is another good option if a slightly sportier feel is desired, though its long-term reliability might not be as bulletproof.
Better (depending on priorities): If raw power is a priority, the early Nissan Altima might be considered. However, for overall balance of reliability, comfort, and efficiency, the 1991 Accord and its direct Toyota counterpart remain exceptional choices. For budget-focused buyers who prioritize absolute lowest cost, a domestic option like a well-maintained Ford Taurus or Ford Tempo could be considered, but at the expense of long-term reliability.
Final Verdict: Is the 1991 Honda Accord a Good Sedan?
The 1991 Honda Accord is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a reliable, economical, and comfortable daily driver. It's an excellent choice for first-time car owners, students, or anyone who prioritizes low running costs and dependability over cutting-edge features.
It is absolutely worth buying, but primarily in the used market, as new models are long gone. Buyers should focus on well-maintained examples, preferably with documented service history, paying close attention to the condition of the automatic transmission and any signs of rust. The LX and EX trims offer a better balance of features and comfort. While not a performance vehicle, its blend of efficiency, reliability, and timeless design makes it a smart purchase for those who understand its age and potential maintenance needs. A meticulously cared-for 1991 Accord can still provide years of faithful service.
It is absolutely worth buying, but primarily in the used market, as new models are long gone. Buyers should focus on well-maintained examples, preferably with documented service history, paying close attention to the condition of the automatic transmission and any signs of rust. The LX and EX trims offer a better balance of features and comfort. While not a performance vehicle, its blend of efficiency, reliability, and timeless design makes it a smart purchase for those who understand its age and potential maintenance needs. A meticulously cared-for 1991 Accord can still provide years of faithful service.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.