Honda Civic Type R

vs

Dodge Omni GLH-S

Japan vs USA — 1997 vs 1986

Honda Civic Type R (1997)
Dodge Omni GLH-S (1986)
Specifications
Civic Type R EK9Omni GLH-S Shelby 175hp Turbo
Horsepower185 hp175 hp
Torque118 lb-ft200 lb-ft
Engine Size1,595 cc2,213 cc
0-60 mph6.7 sec6.7 sec
Top Speed143 mph128 mph
¼ Mile15.0 sec15.0 sec
Weight2,315 lbs2,400 lbs
Wheelbase2,620 mm2,467 mm
Length4,180 mm4,191 mm
Units Produced—500
Original MSRP—$10,995
Value (Excellent)$80,000$55,000
Collectibility8/108/10
Rarity7/109/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1997 Honda Civic Type R EK9 brings higher top speed to the table, and the 1986 Dodge Omni GLH-S Shelby 175hp Turbo answers with quicker acceleration, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Japan and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1997 Honda Civic Type R EK9 versus 1986 Dodge Omni GLH-S Shelby 175hp Turbo is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1997 Honda Civic Type R EK9 producing 185 hp and the 1986 Dodge Omni GLH-S Shelby 175hp Turbo delivering 175 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Honda Civic Type R uses a Inline-4 DOHC VTEC (B16B) displacing 1,595 cc, while the Dodge Omni GLH-S relies on a Inline-4 SOHC Turbocharged with 2,213 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1986 Dodge Omni GLH-S Shelby 175hp Turbo edges ahead at 6.7 seconds versus 6.7 seconds. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.