Honda Accord Turns 50 As Honda Celebrates 25 Million-Sale Sedan
Happy Birthday, Honda Accord!
May 8, 2026, marks the 50th birthday of the Honda Accord. Born in 1976, the first-generation model debuted and then went on to become one of the Japanese automaker's most successful models ever.
From businessmen to celebrities like Ludacris, the Accord has gained worldwide acclaim in the 50 years that it's spent driving around the globe. In that time, the nameplate sold a grand total of 25 million units, accumulated millions of miles with countless owners, and is currently in its 11th generation.
From Then to Now
The first-generation Honda Accord debuted in 1976 and was sold as a three-door hatchback or a four-door sedan. It came with a 68- to 78-horsepower naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Sold alongside the Civic, it was the snazzier option of the two, offering more space and more luxuries than its subcompact brother.
Fast forward to today, and the model has grown in size and power and is fitted with the latest and greatest safety tech. Now turbocharged or hybrid, with Honda's Safety Sense, and even available with a detuned version of Honda's Civic Type R (FL5) engine, it has come a long way since its introduction.
Notable models include the third, fifth, and seventh-generation models that received the Japan Car of the Year award. Others include the 10th-generation model, which was awarded the North American Car of the Year award.
Honda's Throwing a Party
Known as one of the embodiments of restraint and quiet luxury in the automotive industry, the Honda Accord will receive a similarly designed celebration at the Honda Collection Hall in the Mobility Resort Motegi. Honda has a special exhibit featuring all the historic models alongside panels that trace the evolution of the nameplate over the years.
The exhibit will run from May 7, 2026, through June 30, 2026. On top of that, a line of commemorative merchandise featuring the Accord's 50th Anniversary logo will be sold. The merch line includes T-shirts, caps, mugs, and keyholders, and it will also be available online through the Honda Goods Amazon Brand Store, the official shop for Suzuka Circuit and Mobility Resort Motegi. Stores at both locations will also hold stock and offer delivery, but only within Japan.
Aside from the caps and T-shirts, Honda also collaborated with Cotocul, a Kyoto-based leather accessories brand that uses recycled materials from Accord seat covers. These products are also available through Cotocul's online store, but delivery is limited to Japan only. Finally, Honda has videos and content to be posted on its social media channels, plus an article on Honda Stories, all to air on May 26, 2026, in honor of the Accord.
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This story was originally published May 9, 2026 at 5:15 PM.