What a 1996 Honda Accord EX Is Worth Today

As of 2025, a typical 1996 Honda Accord EX in running, average condition usually sells for about $1,500–$4,000 in private-party transactions. Well-kept, lower-mileage examples can bring $4,000–$7,000, while exceptional, low-mile, largely original cars—especially desirable configurations like a 5-speed manual coupe or wagon—can reach $7,000–$10,000 with enthusiast buyers. Rough, high-mileage cars that still run may trade for $800–$1,500, and dealer trade-ins often net less than private sales.

The Market Context in 2025

The 1996 Accord EX sits at the intersection of two trends: aging daily drivers with modest mainstream demand and a niche but real interest from enthusiasts seeking clean, unmodified 1990s Japanese cars. While it isn’t considered a blue-chip collectible, scarcity of clean, rust-free examples and rising interest in manual transmissions have nudged top-of-market prices upward. Location, documentation, and condition remain the biggest value drivers.

Typical Price Ranges by Condition

The following ranges reflect common private-party sale prices observed in 2024–2025 for the 1996 Accord EX across U.S. markets. Actual values vary with mileage, transmission, body style, rust, and service history.

• Poor/Fair (runs, needs notable work, >200k miles): $800–$2,000
• Good (well-maintained driver, 150k–220k miles): $2,000–$3,500
• Very Good (clean, documented maintenance, 120k–180k miles): $3,500–$5,000
• Excellent (low miles, stock, no rust, strong records): $5,000–$7,000
• Exceptional/Rare Spec (e.g., low-mile manual coupe or wagon, original, rust-free): $7,000–$10,000+
• Dealer Trade-In (varies widely; typically below private-party): often $300–$2,000 depending on condition

These bands provide a practical starting point. Unique attributes—such as an unmodified, one-owner manual or unusually low mileage—can push a car to the high end or beyond, while rust, accidents, and deferred maintenance tend to pull values down.

What Drives the Value

Several factors consistently influence how much a 1996 Accord EX will sell for, and understanding them helps explain wide price differences between outwardly similar cars.

• Condition and Rust: Structural rust (common in the Northeast/Midwest) can dramatically reduce value; a clean, dry-climate shell is prized.
• Mileage and Records: Lower miles and thorough maintenance documentation (timing belt, suspension, brakes, fluids) signal longevity and boost price.
• Transmission: Manuals generally command a premium among enthusiasts; smooth-shifting autos with recent service also fare better than unserviced units.
• Body Style and Trim Details: EX coupes and wagons can draw extra attention; stock wheels, intact interior, and working sunroof/ABS add appeal.
• Originality vs. Mods: Tasteful, reversible upgrades may be acceptable, but heavy modifications often narrow the buyer pool and lower value.
• Accident/Title Status: Clean, accident-free titles sell stronger; salvage/rebuilt titles typically reduce value by 20–40%.
• Location and Timing: Sunbelt cars bring more due to condition; prices can be seasonal, rising slightly in spring/summer when buyer activity increases.
• Emissions Readiness: In smog-check states, current passing tests and no check-engine lights are critical for achieving full value.

When these factors align positively—clean body, low miles, documented care, manual transmission—the 1996 Accord EX transcends commodity pricing and enters enthusiast territory.

Regional and Channel Differences

Geography and the selling venue matter. Rust-belt cars typically sell for less, while clean Sunbelt examples can command a premium. Private-party transactions generally return more to sellers than dealer trade-ins, and enthusiast marketplaces can unlock top-dollar for rare, well-preserved configurations.

Private Party vs. Dealer vs. Enthusiast Platforms

Each channel tends to yield different outcomes, especially for older vehicles where condition varies widely.

• Private Party: Best balance of audience and price; expect the typical ranges listed above.
• Dealer Trade-In: Convenient but usually least money; dealers discount for risk and reconditioning.
• Enthusiast/Auction Sites: Strongest for exceptional, original, or manual cars with documentation; buyer scrutiny is higher.

Choosing the right venue for the specific car—ordinary driver vs. exceptional survivor—can shift the final sale price meaningfully.

How to Price Your Specific 1996 Accord EX

If you’re valuing a particular car, a structured approach can tighten your estimate and prevent surprises.

1. Baseline with Guides: Check multiple pricing guides (e.g., KBB, Edmunds, NADA) for private-party values in your ZIP code.
2. Survey Local Listings: Compare current listings on classifieds for similar mileage, body style, and transmission in your area.
3. Assess Condition: Document rust, paint, interior wear, and any warning lights; gather maintenance records (timing belt/water pump history is key).
4. Adjust for Title/Accidents: Verify Carfax/AutoCheck; discount for salvage/rebuilt or accident history.
5. Account for Smog/Inspection: In emissions states, ensure readiness and recent pass; factor costs if not current.
6. Choose a Venue: Decide between private sale, dealer trade-in, or enthusiast platforms based on the car’s uniqueness.
7. Set a Realistic Range: Price slightly above your target to allow room for negotiation, but within market norms to attract buyers.

Following these steps will align your asking or offer with real-world conditions and help you navigate negotiations with confidence.

Bottom Line

Most 1996 Honda Accord EX models sell today for $1,500–$4,000 as honest daily drivers. Clean, documented, lower-mileage cars move into the $4,000–$7,000 bracket, and rare, exceptionally preserved manuals or wagons can approach or surpass $7,000–$10,000 in the right marketplace. Condition, rust, documentation, transmission, and location are the decisive variables.

Summary

A 1996 Honda Accord EX is typically worth $1,500–$4,000, with well-kept examples fetching $4,000–$7,000 and exceptional, enthusiast-grade cars reaching $7,000–$10,000+. Values hinge on condition, mileage, documentation, transmission, and region; private-party sales usually yield more than dealer trade-ins, and enthusiast platforms reward rare, original configurations.

How much should I sell my Honda Accord for?

2020 Honda Accord Value – $14,549-$27,150 | Edmunds.

How much is a 1996 Honda Accord worth today?

The value of a used 1996 Honda Accord ranges from $380 to $2,386, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.

How many miles can a 1996 Honda Accord last?

With that being said a very well-maintained Honda Accord has the potential to last well past 300,000 miles and further before needing any major work.

Is the 1996 Honda Accord a good car?

Among the 845 owners who provided feedback on the 1996 Honda Accord for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with 95% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle’s reliability and comfort to be its strongest features.