About the Honda Concerto
The Honda Concerto was a compact saloon and hatchback developed jointly with Rover, sharing its platform with the Rover 200/400 series. Built at Honda's Suzuka plant in Japan and later at Rover's Longbridge factory, it offered reliable Honda engineering with a choice of 1.5 and 1.6-litre petrol engines. The Concerto was known for its balanced handling, comfortable interior, and exceptional build quality, though it never achieved the sales success of its rivals.
Available in both four-door saloon and five-door hatchback body styles, the Concerto appealed to buyers seeking dependable Japanese engineering in a European-styled package. Production ended in 1994 as Honda shifted focus to the Civic-based models, making surviving examples increasingly sought after by enthusiasts.
What Affects Honda Concerto Prices
Condition is the primary price determinant, with rust-free, well-maintained examples commanding significant premiums due to the model's age. Low mileage is highly valued, as many surviving Concertos have covered over 100,000 miles. Complete service history, particularly with Honda main dealer stamps, can add £2,000–£5,000 to the value.
The 1.6-litre models, especially those with air conditioning and power steering, attract higher prices than basic 1.5-litre versions. Hatchback variants are marginally more desirable than saloons. Originality is crucial—unmodified examples with original paint, trim, and wheels fetch more than those with non-standard modifications. Colour also matters, with popular shades like white, silver, and red easier to sell than less common options.
Buying Tips for Honda Concerto
Inspect thoroughly for rust, particularly in the sills, rear wheel arches, and subframe mounting points, as corrosion is the biggest threat to these vehicles. Check for oil leaks around the valve cover gasket and cam seals—common but inexpensive to fix. Test the gearbox for smooth shifting and ensure the clutch doesn't slip, as replacement requires significant labour costs.
Verify all electrics work, including windows, central locking, and sunroof if fitted, as parts are increasingly difficult to source. Request full service history and check cambelt replacement records—this should be done every 60,000 miles or five years. Join Honda Concerto owner forums to identify reputable sellers and obtain pre-purchase inspection advice. Budget for recommissioning costs even on running cars, as many have been stored or lightly used.