Honda CR-X Del Sol

The Honda CR-X Del Sol emerged in the early '90s as Honda's bold answer to the convertible craze, offering a quirky yet charming blend of compact sports car dynamics and open-air freedom. Born from the lineage of the revered CR-X, the Del Sol ditched the hatchback practicality for a removable targa roof, instantly transforming from snug coupe to sunny-day cruiser. Its design was unapologetically playful, with rounded contours and a cheerful face that seemed to promise endless summer drives.

Underneath the cheerful exterior, Honda packed in some serious engineering prowess. The Del Sol featured Honda's innovative TransTop mechanism in certain markets—a motorized marvel that stowed the roof panel neatly into the trunk, a spectacle that never failed to draw a crowd in parking lots. Performance-wise, it inherited Honda's legendary VTEC engines, including the spirited B16A, delivering rev-happy thrills and razor-sharp handling that could embarrass pricier rivals on twisty roads.

Despite never reaching the iconic status of its hatchback predecessor, the Del Sol carved out its own niche, becoming a cult favorite among enthusiasts who appreciated its blend of practicality, performance, and quirky charm. Its compact dimensions, lively handling, and reliable Honda engineering made it a popular platform for grassroots motorsport, from autocross events to spirited track days. Today, the Del Sol stands as a testament to Honda's willingness to experiment, reminding us that sometimes, the best cars are the ones that dare to be delightfully different.