Honda Inspire (1st generation)
A longitudinal five-cylinder luxury hardtop from the peak of Japan's bubble economy.
- Power
- 190 bhp
- Top speed
- 130 mph
- Est. value
- $4k–$12k
About the Honda Inspire
Introduced in 1989 as the Accord Inspire, this JDM-exclusive luxury sedan was designed to bridge the gap between the Accord and the flagship Legend. It is most notable for its unusual longitudinal front-wheel-drive layout and the G25A inline-five engine, a configuration chosen to provide smooth, V6-like refinement with better weight distribution. The interior features genuine wood trim by Tendo Mokko and frameless door glass, reflecting the high-end aspirations of the Japanese bubble era. While it shared a platform with the Honda Vigor, the Inspire was sold through the Honda Clio dealer network as a more conservative, elegant alternative to the Vigor's sportier image.
Honda Inspire specs
The Honda Inspire produces 190 bhp (142 kW) and 237 Nm (175 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).
| Make | Honda |
|---|---|
| Model | Inspire |
| Generation | 1st generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 2.5 G |
| Years | 1989–1995 |
| Type | JDM |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 2.5-litre longitudinal inline-5 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,451 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 190 bhp (142 kW) at 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 237 Nm (175 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,800 rpm |
| Top speed | 130 mph (210 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,375 kg (3,031 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 138 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 Inspire worth?
A typical Honda Inspire is estimated to be worth $4,000 – $12,000 (about £3,000 – £8,900).
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 Inspire rarity in CarSpot
The Honda Inspire is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 10 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 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 Inspire fun facts
- The Inspire's interior wood inserts were crafted by Tendo Mokko, a famous Japanese furniture company known for supplying the Imperial Household.
- Despite being front-wheel drive, the engine is mounted longitudinally, a layout typically reserved for rear-wheel-drive cars to improve handling balance.
- The first-generation Inspire was so successful that Honda eventually expanded its dimensions in 1992 to match the flagship Legend's width.