As I typed these words for this week’s feature of Martin’s 1991 CB7 Accord Wagon, I was trying to think of a perfect term that would fit his wagon. Being a 1991 model, many examples have either been used & abused or met their demise at the local junkyards. While some survivors may turn up on the road every now and then, but you just don’t see enough of them anymore. It’s interesting on how we (what I mean by “we” is actually more of “I”) take things for granted: didn’t care enough when more of these CB7s were around and only start drooling all over now that they’ve became somewhat a rarity.
Martin’s CB7 is somewhat a survivor of its own. Previously owned by one of Martin’s closest friends, this wagon wasn’t in its best shape when Martin landed ownership (both mechanically and cosmetically). Though Martin’s friend did upgrade this Accord’s exterior with parts (front and rear bumpers) from its Euro counterpart: CB8 AeroDeck. Originally a black wagon, this car has been rattle-can sprayed twice. But don’t worry, a full repaint is in the horizon for this CB7 wagon as part of Martin’s major overhaul plan. So far, the mechanical overhaul side has been tackled: started by replacing its tired engine with a JDM H23A engine and 5-speed manual transmission, addressing its suspension updates (including a set of coilovers), acquiring a set of Rota Slipstreams that have been colormatched to body (White on White is right!). To get a little more power out of the H23 engine, DC Sports header and Apexi muffler were added along with AEM intake. Bigger brakes setup and LSD were on the immediate future to-do list to improve the overall driving experience. As a cherry on top, Martin installed a rear wing from his beloved first car (MK1 VW GTI). To his surprise, the wing actually fit and “flow” with the boxy design of the Accord wagon!
In conclusion, perhaps “Underappreciated Survivor” is the best term that fits with Martin’s CB7 wagon. While the commoners would just see it as an old 90’s wagon driving by, we enthusiasts would nod in approval to the fact that someone still takes pride in maintaining and keeping their 90’s wagon on the road! Hope to see you driving it more Martin!
Introduce Yourself
My name is Martin Hernandez, I live and grew up in Moreno Valley California, small town with its pros and cons. I currently have two jobs at the moment, one being at a restaurant where I cook and prepare food. And my part-time job as a mechanic.
WHY A WAGON?
I’d never considered owning a wagon but an opportunity came up to own one from a good friend of mine. He’s the reason I got one in the first place.
Did you consider a different WAGON instead of this one?
No, I love the 4th generation Honda Accords and when I found out they also came out of factory in wagon chassis, I knew if I’d ever owned one, it had to be this generation wagon.
What was your original objective with your car and has that objective changed?
I never had an objective since my wagon did come into my life as a surprise BUT I do plan on getting it repainted since it does need it and probably just one more upgrade of installing a big brake kit with parts from an Honda Oddessy and Acura RL.
What style would you say best describes your car?
It’s a simple style, so I’d say TRACK. Has a swapped H23A motor and with suspension and beefy tires. I’ll love to track the wagon in the future!
Who assisted in the planning/building/modding of your car?
I have to give all the credit to my friend Gro, he’s the one that did all the work before he sold it to me.
What do you feel makes your car unique / special in your eyes?
It’s a wagon! It’s a 30 year old car and you rarely see this generation alone in a wagon style!
What is your favorite part/feature/function of the car?
I have to say there’s two things I love about the car, first is the JDM front end and second, of course, the engine swap.
If you could pick one thing you aren’t satisfied with about your car, what would it be?
Something I’m not satisfied with is how large the rear looks to the front of the car. You have to look at the car from a good angle sometimes to not notice how skinny the front looks. Maybe I need to put a fatter lip just to match the larger reel.
What has been the biggest obstacle you’ve faced while building this car?
As of right now, nothing, like I said Gro did all the work so I can’t really say what problems I faced during his process of building it.
What one word best describes your car?
Surreal
What is your final goal with this car?
Final goal that I’m really aiming for is to get it repainted, this wagon has everything already. Yes, a project is never finished and that’s what the future is about. But for now, just paint.
