How Much Does a 1998 Honda Accord Cost in 2025?

In today’s U.S. market, a 1998 Honda Accord generally sells for about $1,500–$6,500 depending on condition, mileage, trim, and seller type, with rough, high-mileage cars sometimes under $1,000 and exceptional low-mileage or enthusiast-kept examples occasionally reaching $7,000–$10,000. That spread reflects the car’s age, regional rust exposure, maintenance history, and whether it’s a desirable configuration like a well-kept EX coupe with a 5-speed manual.

Market Snapshot

The sixth-generation Accord (1998–2002) remains a popular budget buy thanks to simple mechanics and widely available parts. Prices are shaped by local supply, the car’s mechanical state, and documentation. While pandemic-era used-car inflation has cooled, clean, documented older Hondas still command steady demand, especially rust-free, manual-transmission coupes and lower-mileage 4-cylinder cars.

Typical Price Ranges by Condition

The following breakdown helps set expectations for a 1998 Accord based on overall condition and mileage. It’s a general guide; individual cars can sit above or below these ranges depending on records, rust, and market quirks.

• Poor/Parts car: $300–$1,000 (non-running, severe rust, salvage title, or major mechanical issues)
• Fair/High-mileage runner: $1,000–$2,500 (drivable but needs notable work: tires, suspension, leaks, cosmetics)
• Good/Well-maintained, ~150k–220k miles: $2,500–$4,500 (sound drivetrain, up-to-date fluids, some wear)
• Very good/Clean, under ~150k miles with records: $4,500–$6,500 (rust-free, recent major services, clean interior)
• Exceptional/Rare find, under ~100k miles, one-owner or enthusiast-kept: $6,500–$10,000 (often a manual EX coupe or unusually original car)

These tiers reflect retail asking prices seen from private sellers and small dealers; negotiation, seasonality, and location can move a given car up or down within a band.

What Drives the Price

Several factors have an outsized influence on what a specific 1998 Accord will cost. Consider the following when assessing value:

• Mileage and records: Documented maintenance (timing belt, fluids) and lower miles bolster price more than odometer alone.
• Rust and body: Sunbelt, garage-kept cars fetch premiums; rust-belt corrosion (rockers, subframe, brake lines) drags value down.
• Transmission and engine: 4-cylinder manuals are sought after; V6 automatics can be discounted due to transmission wear concerns at this age.
• Trim and body style: EX and clean coupes typically sit higher than DX/LX sedans, all else equal.
• Seller type: Dealers often add $500–$1,500 over private-party levels for reconditioning, fees, and warranty, if any.
• Region and timing: Prices tend to be stronger in coastal metros and during tax-refund and graduation seasons.
• Modifications: Tasteful, reversible upgrades may not add value; extensive mods usually narrow the buyer pool and reduce price.

Evaluating these variables together will give you a more accurate picture than any single attribute such as mileage or model year.

Trims, Drivetrains, and Typical Premiums

Not all 1998 Accords are valued the same. Here’s how common configurations tend to stack up in pricing relative to an average LX sedan in similar condition:

• DX (sedan): Usually at the lower end due to fewer features.
• LX (sedan/coupe, 4-cylinder): Baseline pricing; strong demand for clean, well-kept examples.
• EX (sedan/coupe, 4-cylinder): Often +$300–$800 premium for features (sunroof, alloys, better audio), especially if manual.
• Coupe body style: +$300–$1,000 when clean, with manuals most desirable.
• V6 (LX V6/EX V6): Can be similar or slightly less than 4-cylinder in some markets due to aging automatic transmissions and higher maintenance; pristine, documented V6 cars still sell well.
• 5-speed manual (4-cylinder): +$300–$1,200 premium among enthusiasts; condition-sensitive.

Rare color combinations, one-owner histories, and extensive documentation can push a car into the top end of its range regardless of trim.

Regional Differences

Where you shop matters. Expect to adjust your budget based on climate and local supply dynamics.

• Rust-belt states: Lower asking prices but higher risk of structural rust; clean examples command a notable premium.
• Sunbelt/West Coast: Higher average prices for rust-free bodies; more competition for clean manuals and coupes.
• Rural vs urban: Rural areas may have lower prices but fewer well-documented cars; urban markets have higher prices and faster turnover.

Casting a wider net—sometimes across state lines—can yield better condition-per-dollar, even after travel or shipping costs.

How to Check a Price Is Fair

To gauge whether an asking price matches the car’s true market value, combine a few quick checks before committing.

1. Compare comps: Search current listings for same year/trim/mileage in your region to establish a live baseline.
2. Consult valuation guides: Use resources like KBB and Edmunds for private-party vs dealer values, adjusting for condition.
3. Verify history: Pull a VIN report to confirm ownership, title status, and accident history.
4. Get a pre-purchase inspection: A $100–$200 mechanic check can reveal issues that justify a lower offer.
5. Budget reconditioning: Price in tires, brakes, fluids, and timing-belt status to avoid overpaying.

If comps, history, and inspection all align with the asking price, you’re likely in a fair range; if not, negotiate or keep shopping.

Ownership Costs to Keep in Mind

Even a well-priced 1998 Accord can need age-related work. Planning for these items helps set a realistic total cost of ownership.

• Timing belt and water pump (4-cylinder and V6): Typically every ~90k–105k miles; $600–$1,000 parts and labor.
• Automatic transmission service/repair: Fluid service is cheap; rebuilds/replacements can run $1,800–$3,000 if needed.
• Clutch (manual): $800–$1,400 installed, depending on shop rates.
• Suspension and steering wear (bushings, struts, ball joints): $400–$1,200+ depending on scope and parts quality.
• Rust remediation and exhaust: Varies widely; structural rust can be a dealbreaker.
• Brakes, tires, fluids, and HVAC fixes: Common maintenance items; budget a few hundred dollars annually.

A car priced at the higher end should already have major items addressed; if not, factor these costs into negotiations.

Bottom Line

Expect to pay roughly $1,500–$6,500 for a typical 1998 Honda Accord in 2025, with sub-$1,000 project cars and rare $7,000–$10,000 outliers depending on condition, configuration, and documentation. Prioritize rust-free bodies, service records (especially timing belt), and independent inspections to ensure the price matches the car’s true value.

Summary

A 1998 Honda Accord’s market value varies widely with condition, records, mileage, and configuration. Most sell between $1,500 and $6,500, while rough cars can dip under $1,000 and exceptional, low-mileage manuals or pristine EX coupes can crest $7,000–$10,000. Verify history, compare local comps, and budget for age-related maintenance to buy confidently at a fair price.

Is a 1998 Honda Accord a good car?

Yes, a 1998 Honda Accord is generally considered a good car, particularly for its reliability and longevity. Many owners report high mileage and minimal maintenance needs, highlighting its durability and practicality. However, some owners have experienced issues with the transmission, which can be costly to repair. 
Here’s a more detailed look:
Pros:

• Reliability: Honda Accords of this era are known for their reliability and ability to last for many years with proper maintenance. 
• Durability: Many owners have reported high mileage and minimal maintenance needs, indicating the car’s ability to withstand wear and tear. 
• Comfort and Handling: The 1998 Accord is praised for its comfortable ride and responsive handling, making it a pleasant vehicle to drive. 
• Good Value: It’s considered a practical and affordable choice, especially given its reliability and longevity. 
• Good Engine: The 1998 Accord has a reliable engine known for its longevity and performance. 
• Spacious Interior: The Accord’s cabin is known for being spacious and comfortable, with a convenient design. 
• Safety Features: Optional anti-lock brakes (ABS) and a good crash test rating add to the safety features. 

Cons:

• Transmission Issues: A common problem reported by some owners is transmission issues, particularly with automatic transmissions. 
• Paint Issues: Some owners have experienced paint fading or chipping over time. 
• Age: Being a 1998 model, it’s an older car and may require more maintenance than newer vehicles. 

Overall:
The 1998 Honda Accord is a solid choice for a used car, especially if you prioritize reliability and longevity. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential transmission issues and to ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained to minimize the risk of future problems.

How much should I spend on a used Honda Accord?

Budget $4,000 to $31,000 for a used Honda Accord, with prices varying according to model year, mileage, general condition, and vehicle history.

How many miles will a 1998 Honda Accord last?

A well-maintained 1998 Honda Accord can easily last over 200,000 miles, and many have even reached 300,000 miles or more. The longevity of any vehicle, including a Honda Accord, depends heavily on the level of maintenance and care it receives throughout its life. 
Here’s why a 1998 Honda Accord can last so long, and what factors contribute to its lifespan:

• Reliable Engine: . Opens in new tabHonda Accords are known for their durable engines, which are capable of lasting well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. 
• Regular Maintenance: . Opens in new tabPerforming routine maintenance tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and timely replacements of parts like the timing belt are crucial for extending the car’s lifespan. 
• Driving Habits: . Opens in new tabModerate driving habits, avoiding aggressive acceleration and braking, and regular freeway driving can also contribute to a longer lifespan. 
• Example of Longevity: . Opens in new tabA Reddit user on r/BuyItForLife shared a story of a 1998 Honda Accord that clocked over 266,000 miles, serving their family for over 20 years. 
• Beyond 200,000 Miles: . Opens in new tabWhile 200,000 miles is often cited as a good lifespan for a Honda Accord, with proper care and maintenance, it’s not uncommon for these vehicles to exceed that milestone and reach 300,000 miles or more. 

How much is a 1998 Honda Accord worth?

A 1998 Honda Accord is generally worth between $400 and $2,500, depending on its specific condition, mileage, and features. For a more precise value, you should use online appraisal tools like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book (KBB), as they consider factors like your location and the vehicle’s trim level.
 
Factors influencing value

• Condition: A car in excellent condition with no mechanical issues or major cosmetic flaws will command a higher price. 
• Mileage: Lower mileage typically increases the vehicle’s value. 
• Trim level: Higher trim levels, such as the EX or EX-L, often have more features and are worth more. 
• Location: Prices can vary by region, so checking local listings on sites like Autotrader or Cars.com is helpful. 

How to get a precise valuation

1. 1. Use Appraisal Tools: Go to websites like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book and enter your car’s specific details to get a free valuation. 
2. 2. Check Local Listings: Browse Autotrader and TrueCar to see what similar 1998 Honda Accords are currently listed for in your area.