In 1982, a new Honda Accord typically cost around $7,000 to $9,000 in the United States, depending on trim and options.
Context: the second-generation Accord and pricing in 1982
The 1982 model year marked the U.S. introduction of the second-generation Honda Accord, which brought redesigned styling, improved performance, and updated features. MSRP varied by body style and trim, with sedans and hatchbacks positioned within a similar price band but with higher-cost configurations for additional equipment.
What influenced the price?
There are several factors that affected the sticker price in 1982, including trim level, body style (sedan vs coupe/hatchback), transmission choice (manual vs automatic), and optional equipment such as air conditioning, power steering, and sunroofs. Dealer location and regional incentives could also shift the final price slightly.
Prices reflect manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) in that era and do not include taxes, destination charges, or dealer-added options.
Approximate price ranges in 1982
The following ranges give a sense of how much buyers could expect to pay for a new Accord in 1982 before tax and fees. Note that exact numbers varied by trim and market.
- Base trims in common body styles started around the low-to-mid $7,000s.
- Mid-range configurations with additional features typically sat near the upper $7,000s to just under $9,000.
- Fully equipped versions or special editions could approach or slightly exceed $9,000.
In inflation-adjusted terms, those 1982 dollars would be roughly equivalent to about $20,000–$22,000 in 2024–2025 dollars, depending on the exact year used for comparison.
Notes on historical pricing sources
Modern price references for classic cars rely on archived Honda brochures, vintage automotive magazines, and historical pricing databases maintained by organizations and publications such as automotive archives, Hagerty price guides, and Kelley Blue Book. Individual dealer prices and regional promotions could cause variations.
Bottom line and context
For buyers in 1982, the Accord offered a blend of reliability, efficiency, and newer features, with a typical sticker price in the mid-range for mid-size sedans of the era. The model helped establish Honda’s momentum in the U.S. market during the early 1980s.
Inflation-adjusted snapshot
Using consumer price index data, a 1982 price around $7,000 translates to roughly $20,000–$22,000 in 2024–2025 dollars, illustrating how purchasing power and pricing have shifted over time.
Summary: The 1982 Honda Accord was typically priced in the mid-$7,000s to around $9,000, varying by trim, body style, and options. When adjusted for inflation, those prices align with a modern equivalent in the low-to-mid-$20,000s range.