'88 CRX / '89-91 CRX

Are these the same except for the doors/ seat belt arrangement? I'm looking at parts for an '88 and wanted to make sure I can use any of the 2nd gen cars.

thanks.

Pretty sure the later dash cluster isn't a direct swap to the 88-89's. It can be done but requires some rewiring.

There are a few differences. The 88's have several unique parts. Here is what I remember as different between the 88's and the 89-91's. There are also several changes from 89-90, mostly exterior stuff

88's unique parts:
-Rear lower control arms are unique, the only other use of the 88 LCAs is the Integra Type R
-Belts mounted to the pillars, not doors
-Cam is slightly different profile
-Transmission differential bearings are a different size

There were some trim changes between the 88/89 cars and the 90/91 cars, the B pillar trim on the doors is different, the taillights have a slightly different design (though same mounts and size), the front turn signals are a different shape, and the instrument cluster/hood are a different shape.

I've had several, and if I ever bought another one, I'd try to get an 88. They are the lightest of all, with the best rear suspension.

I think that the 89+ cars had a couple of extra horsepower, but really minor, like three or something.

I think the rear shocks have to be 88 specific.

Woody wrote: I think that the 89+ cars had a couple of extra horsepower, but really minor, like three or something. I think the rear shocks have to be 88 specific.

Yup, right on both counts. The extra 3 HP was from the cam, and the rear shocks are due to the LCAs

The 91Si had rear disks vs. rear drums as well. Not sure about the 90's.

I don't know a whole lot first hand, but I have read of a lot of little differences that would make buying a non '88 parts car possibly more frustrating than its worth, depending on what you need it for. Lots of trim differences, the seats don't swap over, and the mechanical stuff sonic mentioned.

So....are the '88 parts harder to get? And the SEATS don't swap??? That's crazy...

Just to add/reply to what's already been said:

Seat belts were pillar mounted not only on 88's, but 89's as well.
The 3 hp is easily offest by the added weight of the later cars.
The seats do swap within the 88-91 gen. Civics are different.
The 90-91 instrument clusters can be fitted to the 88-89's with little effort.
90 and 91's had rear disks (civic si's never got them).

The CRX rails differ from the EF hatch and sedan. The inner rails on both seats are vertical and the outer rails are flat. Not sure the difference with the 88 vs 89-91.