Second-generation Honda Civic

Infobox Automobile generation
name=Second generation
wheelbase= 88.6 in.(225 cm)
91.3 in (232 cm)(wagon)
length=146.9 in. (373 cm)


production=1980-1983
body_style=3-door hatchback
4-door sedan
5-door hatchback
5-door station wagon
assembly=Suzuka, Japan,South Africa
engine= 1.3 L "EJ ?" CVCC I4
1.5 L "EM" CVCC I4
transmission=4-speed manual
5-speed manual
2-speed "Hondamatic" automatic
3-speed "Hondamatic" automatic
layout=FF layout
related=Triumph Acclaim
Honda Ballade

The 1980 Civic debuted with a more angular shape, increased engine power, and larger dimensions in all models. The wheelbase now measured 88.6 inches (225 cm) for the hatchback (the two-door "sedan" was dropped) and 91.3 inches (232 cm) for the wagon. All Civic engines now used the CVCC design; the base 1335 cc ("1300") engine made 55 hp (41 kW), while the 1488 cc ("1500") engine produced 67 hp (50 kW). Three transmissions were offered: a four-speed manual (on base models), a five-speed manual and a two-speed automatic.

The Civic 1300 and 1500 came in base and DX versions, and the latter featured a five-speed manual transmission, partial cloth seats, carpet, rear window defroster, intermittent wipers, and a cigar lighter. The 1500 GL added radial tires, a rear window wiper/washer, tachometer, clock, and body side moldings. The Civic wagon came in a single version that was similar to the DX trim level.

In 1980 a "3-box" four-door sedan debuted, as did a three-speed automatic transmission that replaced the aging two-speed unit. Rectangular headlamps and black bumpers appeared on the 1982 Civic. A new highly efficient gasoline-sipping model, the five-speed "FE" (Fuel Economy) was introduced and was rated at convert|41|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on in the city and convert|55|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on on the highway. The slogan for 1983 was "We Make It Simple". Even the standard 1500 cc model achieves convert|34|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on city, and convert|47|mpgus|L/100 km mpgimp|abbr=on highway when driven convert|55|mi/h|km/h|abbr=on, the maximum U.S. speed limit at the time (California mileage ratings). It was produced in Mercedes-Benz plant in East London, South Africa and sold as the Honda Ballade. The sport-oriented Civic "S" was introduced and replaced the 1500 GL in 1983 and was fitted with firmer suspension (with rear stabilizer bar) and 165/70R13 Michelin tires. A red accent encircled the S and set it apart from other Civics as well as a black grille and blackout paint around the window frames.

In Europe a model called the Ballade which was based on the saloon version of this vehicle but with different styling, was available badged as a Triumph Acclaim