In 1996, the Honda Accord’s price in the United States varied by trim and body style; base models started in the low-to-mid teens and well-equipped versions rose into the low-to-mid-$20,000s, with V6-powered variants costing more still.
Understanding the 1996 price landscape
The following figures reflect the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) ranges for the U.S. market during the fifth-generation Accord era (1994–1997). Prices shifted by trim level, body style, and optional equipment, and destination charges or taxes were not included in these quoted numbers.
- DX sedan (4-door): roughly $16,000–$17,500
- LX sedan (4-door): roughly $17,500–$19,000
- EX sedan (4-door): roughly $22,000–$24,000
- DX coupe (2-door): roughly $17,000–$18,500
- EX coupe (2-door): roughly $25,000–$27,000
Prices varied by configuration, and coupes typically carried a premium over their sedan equivalents at the same trim level. Engine choices (four-cylinder vs. V6) also influenced the sticker price significantly.
What influenced the sticker price?
Several factors determined how much a 1996 Accord would cost at the dealership, beyond the base price.
- Trim level and body style, which established the foundational price tier.
- Engine choice, with four-cylinder models generally cheaper than V6 variants.
- Optional features and packages such as sunroofs, leather interiors, automatic transmissions, and premium audio systems.
- Regional pricing, dealer incentives, and availability, which could raise or lower the final sale price.
Note: The prices above refer to sticker prices at the time of sale and do not include destination charges, taxes, or potential dealer discounts or incentives.
Where to verify historical pricing
For precise figures by trim and body style, consult period automotive pricing guides, manufacturer brochures from 1996, or archived listings from databases such as Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book.
Summary
The 1996 Honda Accord offered a range of prices from the mid-teens to the mid- to high-$20,000s, depending on trim, body style, and engine choice. Buyers opting for sedans typically paid less than those choosing coupes or V6-equipped models, and the final price was also influenced by optional features and regional dealer practices.