Mk1 Accord

The 1977 Accord was a milestone, catapulting Honda to the forefront of economy family car design and proving that Japan could build a world-beater.

Initially released here as an attractive three-door hatchback, the Civic-based Accord benefited from a long wheelbase, quality build, efficient 59kW 1.6L engine, classy cabin design and refined road manners.

A five-speed manual or the two-speed semi-automatic Hondamatic was on offer.

In March ’78 a conservative four-door sedan joined the range, while a slightly larger 59kW 1.6L engine and small trim changes marked out the facelifted ’79 Accord range.

By then, constant price rises pushed the Accord well into the prestige segment – an astonishing feat for a marque whose largest model just two years earlier was the Civic.

That year’s two-door Prelude coupe – which was spun off the Accord - helped.

Another round of slight cosmetic changes greeted the 1980 series, along with a three-speed version of the Hondamatic.