I’ve never been much into Honda Civics, but this wide body rally-esque mid engine, rear-wheel drive monster could certainly twist my arm!
This unique 1984 Honda Civic hatchback was converted to a mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive layout by Bremerton, Washington hot rod builder Andy Barcheck between 1987-1992, and spent time with three subsequent owners prior to the seller’s acquisition in 2008.
The Renault R5-inspired build features a custom-fabricated rear subframe carrying a 3.2-litre Acura J32A2 V6 and matching six-speed manual transaxle that were sourced from an Acura CL Type S. Other details include steel box-flared fenders, a vented hood, Corvette brakes, a relocated fuel tank, and more.
This modified Civic could be yours complete with service records, period literature, copies of magazines in which it is featured, and a boot (bonnet?) full of spare parts.
The engine is mounted in an insulated and carpeted compartment behind the seats. The build originally featured a 2.5-liter Acura powerplant, which was recently replaced with a 3.2-liter J32A2 V6 sourced from an Acura CL Type S, which retains its matching six-speed manual transmission, engine control module, and wiring harness.
The fuel tank was relocated to the former engine bay, which also houses the battery, a tool box, and a collapsible spare wheel. A strut tower brace and adjustable camber plates were also added.
The three-door body is finished in metallic grey over silver, with modifications including box flares with straked vents connected by custom rocker moldings, which were fabricated from steel during the initial build. A ducted hood and front and rear spoilers were also added.
15-inch Enkei “salad shooter” wheels are mounted with Pirelli P Zero tires measuring 205/50 up front and 225/50 out back. Five-lug hubs and four-wheel disc brakes with finned callipers were reportedly sourced from a C4 corvette, and new dampers were installed in 2018. Twin exhaust tips exit beneath the rear bumper.
The two-seat cockpit features bolstered sport seats trimmed in two-tone grey microsuede, with power adjustment offered on the driver’s side. The car even has functional air conditioning, a must in my eyes 😉
The drivetrain sits in a custom rear subframe. The suspension is said to have been based on Dastun 240Z components with custom-fabricated adjustable rear A-arms as well as coilovers at all four corners.
This little pocket rocket is up for auction at Bringatrailer.com with the bids currently sitting at around AUD$55,000 (USD$40,000). While that will get you a nice new Civic Type R, I don’t think it’s quite as cool as this Frankenstein!
