Honda Civic I (SB1/SG) photos

The first-generation Honda Civic premiered in July 1972 as a two-door hatchback, rapidly expanding to include three- and five-door hatchbacks, a sedan, and a station wagon. Engineered as an affordable, fuel-efficient compact during the 1970s global energy crisis, it utilized a transverse front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout that maximized passenger and cargo space relative to its small footprint.

Powertrains initially featured 1.2-liter EB-series engines (50–60 hp), upgraded in 1974 with the groundbreaking 1.5-liter ED CVCC engine (53–70 hp). The CVCC system's compound vortex controlled combustion allowed the Civic to meet strict US clean air standards without a catalytic converter. Minor styling updates in 1975 and 1977 refreshed exterior lights, bumpers, and interior appointments.