1987-1989 Honda Accord III Wagon CA5 2.0 EXi (CA5) (116 Hp)

The Honda Accord III Wagon CA5 2.0 EXi, produced between 1987 and 1989, represents a significant iteration of Honda’s popular Accord line, specifically tailored for the North American and Japanese markets. This variant, a station wagon (estate) body style, offered a practical and relatively upscale option within the third-generation Accord family (1986-1989). The “EXi” designation denoted a higher trim level, featuring enhanced equipment and a more powerful engine compared to base models. The CA5 chassis code specifically identifies this wagon configuration with the 2.0-liter engine. It played a role in establishing Honda’s reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency in the family car segment.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Accord III Wagon CA5 2.0 EXi is the F20A SOHC 16-valve inline-four cylinder engine. This 1955cc engine produced 116 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 109 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine featured multi-point fuel injection, a significant advancement for the time, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The single overhead camshaft design, while not as sophisticated as dual overhead cam setups, offered a good balance of performance and cost-effectiveness. The engine block was constructed from cast iron, while the cylinder head was aluminum, aiding in heat dissipation. The CA5 variant was exclusively paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. This transmission, while reliable, was not known for particularly sporty performance, prioritizing smooth shifts and ease of use. It featured electronic control for improved shift quality and efficiency. The transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel economy and comfortable cruising, rather than rapid acceleration.

Driving Characteristics

The 2.0 EXi automatic combination in the Accord Wagon provided a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but not particularly brisk. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did exhibit some typical torque converter slippage, reducing the amount of engine power that reached the wheels. Compared to the five-speed manual transmission available on other Accord models, the automatic version felt noticeably slower, especially during highway passing maneuvers. The suspension, a traditional MacPherson strut front and independent multi-link rear setup, provided a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well. However, it wasn’t particularly sporty, with noticeable body roll during cornering. Steering was light and easy, making it well-suited for city driving. Overall, the driving experience was geared towards practicality and comfort, rather than performance.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The “EXi” trim level placed the CA5 Wagon in the upper echelon of the Accord lineup. Standard features included power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, and a premium sound system. The interior featured comfortable cloth upholstery, often in a patterned design. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems with cassette players, and cruise control. The EXi trim also featured upgraded interior trim pieces and exterior brightwork compared to base models. The wagon configuration itself offered a significant amount of cargo space, making it ideal for families and those needing to transport larger items. The rear seats could be folded down to further expand the cargo area.

Chassis & Braking

The Accord III Wagon CA5 utilized a unibody construction, providing a good balance of strength and weight. The front suspension featured MacPherson struts with stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link design. This setup provided a comfortable ride and reasonable handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by power-assisted disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear. While the front discs provided adequate stopping power, the rear drums were less effective, particularly under heavy braking. The braking system was generally reliable, but lacked the sophistication of more modern anti-lock braking systems (ABS), which were not yet widely available on vehicles in this class.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Honda Accord Wagon, and specifically the 2.0 EXi variant, was generally well-received by automotive critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission detracted from the overall driving experience, and that the handling wasn’t as sharp as some of its competitors. Compared to other trims in the Accord lineup, the 2.0 EXi automatic offered a more comfortable and convenient driving experience, but at the expense of performance. The 2.0 liter engine provided a noticeable power increase over the base 1.5-liter engine, but it wasn’t as sporty as the available five-speed manual transmission. Fuel economy was respectable for the time, averaging around 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.

Legacy

The Honda Accord III Wagon CA5 2.0 EXi has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable vehicle. Many examples are still on the road today, a testament to Honda’s engineering and build quality. The F20A engine is known for its longevity and relatively simple maintenance requirements. The automatic transmission, while not particularly exciting, is also generally reliable. In the used car market, these wagons are sought after by enthusiasts and collectors, particularly those looking for a practical and reliable classic car. Parts availability is generally good, although some trim-specific components may be difficult to find. The CA5 2.0 EXi represents a sweet spot in the Accord lineup, offering a good balance of features, performance, and reliability, making it a desirable and enduring vehicle.