What Is a 1998 Honda Civic Worth Today?

In today’s U.S. market, most 1998 Honda Civics sell private-party for roughly $2,000–$6,500, depending on trim, mileage, condition, and location. Well-kept, low-mileage examples can fetch $7,000–$10,000+, while rough or non-running cars often fall under $2,000. Rare, imported performance versions like the 1998 Civic Type R (EK9) are significant outliers, typically trading around $35,000–$70,000 in 2025.

Market Snapshot in 2025

Values for 1990s Japanese compacts remain resilient thanks to enthusiast demand and nostalgia, even as broader used-car prices have cooled from pandemic-era highs. The 25-year import rule has also brought in more JDM-spec models, lifting awareness and prices of the most desirable variants. For everyday trims—DX, LX, EX, HX—condition and rust history now matter more than anything, as many cars have surpassed 200,000 miles and parts of the country are hard on older chassis.

Typical Price Ranges (U.S.)

The following ranges reflect common private-party outcomes observed in 2024–2025 across mainstream listings and enthusiast marketplaces. Dealer retail can run higher due to reconditioning and warranty overhead.

• Project or non-running/salvage-title cars: $500–$1,800
• High-mileage drivers (DX/LX/HX) with cosmetic wear but mechanically sound: $2,000–$4,000
• Clean, maintained drivers with records; average miles for age: $4,000–$6,500
• Exceptional, low-mileage, mostly stock EX/HX (especially manual): $6,500–$10,000+
• JDM performance imports (1998 Civic Type R EK9): roughly $35,000–$70,000 depending on originality, mileage, and condition

These brackets are directional: a rust-free, documented car in a strong market can sell above the midpoints, while severe rust, poor maintenance, or heavy modifications can push values down.

What Moves the Price Up or Down

Beyond the badge and model year, a few variables overwhelmingly dictate what a 1998 Civic will bring in the marketplace.

• Mileage and maintenance history: Lower miles help, but receipts for timing belt/water pump, suspension, and clutch work can matter more.
• Rust and body integrity: Undercarriage and quarter-panel rust are major value killers; sunbelt cars command a premium.
• Originality vs. modifications: Tasteful, reversible mods may not hurt value, but heavy engine swaps or cut wiring often narrow the buyer pool.
• Transmission: Manuals tend to draw enthusiasts and can sell faster; automatics appeal to a broader daily-driver market.
• Trim and body style: EX (VTEC) and HX (lean-burn, manual) tend to be more desirable than base trims; coupes and hatchbacks often draw enthusiasts.
• Accident and title history: Clean Carfax/Autocheck and clear titles lift confidence and price; salvage or rebuilt titles depress it.
• Region and timing: West Coast and rust-free regions pay more; spring/summer can be stronger selling seasons for enthusiast cars.

Because many 1998 Civics are now enthusiast or budget-commuter purchases, the set of buyers and local demand can swing prices within any given range.

How to Get a Precise Number for Your Car

If you need a value estimate tailored to a specific vehicle, combine guidebook figures with real-world comps and a condition check.

1. Pin down the exact trim, options, and transmission (DX, LX, EX, HX; coupe/sedan/hatch; manual/automatic; A/C, sunroof).
2. Assess condition honestly: note rust, paint, interior, tires, brakes, leaks, and recent service (timing belt, clutch, mounts, bushings).
3. Check valuation guides (KBB, NADA, Edmunds) for a baseline, then verify against local listings and recent sales on marketplaces and auction sites.
4. Adjust for mileage and records: documented major maintenance can add meaningful value; missing keys/alarms or dashboard lights subtract.
5. Consider a pre-sale inspection or emissions test to reassure buyers and justify your ask.
6. Solicit a few instant offers (e.g., big-box buyers) as a floor price, then list privately if you aim higher.

Blending guide values with contemporaneous, local comps and a candid condition report will usually yield a reliable asking price and quicker sale.

Regional Notes

Geography and market quirks matter for 1990s Civics, especially where climate impacts corrosion and where enthusiast demand is concentrated.

• Rust belt vs. sunbelt: Severe rust discounts cars in the Midwest/Northeast; desert or coastal California cars can command notable premiums.
• Enthusiast hubs: West Coast markets and college towns often have deeper pools of manual-transmission buyers and tuner interest.
• Canada: The 1998 Civic lineup and trims differ slightly; values in CAD follow similar condition-driven patterns, with rust severity a key divider.
• Import markets: JDM EK9 Type R values reflect import costs, originality, and limited supply; prices vary widely by country and compliance rules.

If you’re cross-shopping across regions, factor transport costs and pre-purchase inspections into your budget.

Insurance and Registration Considerations

Older Civics may qualify for agreed-value or classic policies if stored/used sparingly, while modified cars can require declared-value coverage. Emissions and safety inspections vary by state or province—passing cleanly can bolster both price and buyer confidence.

Summary

Most 1998 Honda Civics in the U.S. trade in the $2,000–$6,500 range, with standout, low-mileage or especially clean EX/HX manuals fetching $7,000–$10,000+. Rough or non-running cars often land under $2,000. The notable outlier is the imported 1998 Civic Type R, typically $35,000–$70,000. Condition, rust, documentation, originality, and region are the biggest price drivers—verify with recent local comps to dial in a precise figure.

How many miles will a 1998 Honda Civic last?

A 1998 Honda Civic, with proper care and maintenance, can typically last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles. However, some well-maintained Civics have even been known to reach 500,000 miles. The longevity of any vehicle, including a 1998 Civic, depends heavily on factors like driving conditions, maintenance habits, and luck, according to Honda service blogs. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Factors Affecting Longevity:

• Maintenance: Regular oil changes, tune-ups, and addressing issues promptly can significantly extend the life of the engine and other components. 
• Driving Conditions: Highway driving is generally less stressful on a vehicle than stop-and-go city driving. 
• Climate: Extreme climates (very hot or very cold) can impact the lifespan of certain components. 
• Ownership: The number of previous owners and their maintenance habits can also play a role. 

What to Expect:

• 200,000+ miles: This is a reasonable expectation for a well-maintained 1998 Civic. 
• 300,000+ miles: With consistent care and favorable conditions, 300,000 miles is achievable. 
• 500,000+ miles: While less common, some Civics have reached this milestone with exceptional maintenance and luck. 

Tips for Maximizing Lifespan:

• Follow the maintenance schedule: Refer to the owner’s manual for recommended maintenance intervals. 
• Address issues promptly: Don’t let minor problems escalate into major repairs. 
• Use quality parts and fluids: Avoid using cheap or low-quality parts that may fail prematurely. 
• Consider synthetic oil: Some owners have reported improved mileage and engine health by switching to synthetic oil after a certain mileage (though this is a debated topic), according to Edmunds forums. 
• Be mindful of rust: If you live in an area with harsh winters, be aware of rust and take steps to prevent or mitigate it. 

What year of civic to stay away from?

Which Honda Civic Years to Avoid

Model Year	Main Issues
2001	Transmission failure, airbag recall, engine concerns
2006	Cracked engine blocks, coolant leaks
2007–2008	Premature tire wear, engine and body integrity issues
2012	Poor interior quality, underwhelming ride and build

Is a 1998 Honda Civic a classic car?

1998 Honda Civic: A Quintessential Classic
As the sixth generation of its lineage, it carried the torch of Honda’s reputation for quality and efficiency into a new era.

How much is a 1998 Honda Civic worth today?

How much is a 1998 Honda Civic worth? The value of a used 1998 Honda Civic ranges from $382 to $1,852, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options. Get a free appraisal here.