Honda Ballade (2nd generation)
The upscale sibling to the Civic, defined by its unique semi-retractable headlights.
- Power
- 100 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.9 s
- Top speed
- 115 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$9k
About the Honda Ballade
The second-generation Honda Ballade was launched as a more premium, luxury-oriented alternative to the contemporary third-generation Civic. It is most easily distinguished by its 'pop-up' headlight eyelids, a design feature shared with the Prelude and CR-X of the era. The 1.5i trim utilized the PGM-FI fuel-injected EW engine, providing a significant performance boost over the carburetted base models. While the Ballade nameplate was short-lived in Japan, it became a legendary staple of the South African market, where it was sold through Mercedes-Benz dealerships as a compact luxury offering.
Honda Ballade specs
The Honda Ballade produces 100 bhp (75 kW) and 126 Nm (93 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.9 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model | Ballade |
| Generation | 2nd generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | 1.5i |
| Years | 1983–1987 |
| Type | Saloon |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 18,954 built |
| Engine | 1.5-litre SOHC 12-valve inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,488 cc (1.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 100 bhp (75 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 126 Nm (93 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.9 s |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 825 kg (1,819 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 121 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Honda Ballade worth?
A typical Honda Ballade is estimated to be worth $3,000 – $9,000 (about £2,200 – £6,700).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Honda Ballade rarity in CarSpot
The Honda Ballade is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 33 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Honda Ballade fun facts
- The second-generation Ballade won the 1983 Japan Car of the Year award alongside its sibling, the Honda Civic.
- In South Africa, the Ballade was so successful that the nameplate continued to be used for Civic-based sedans until 2001.
- The Ballade's front-end styling and fuel-injected engine served as the direct mechanical basis for the first-generation Honda CR-X.