I have a 2006 Honda Civic Hybrid. I average 47mpg and have 6 airbags, anti lock brakes, a navigation system, much more room including 4 doors and much better safety equipment than a 1985 Civic Coupe. I owned the original 1975 Honda Civic and those car's were very basic (2 speed transmission, manaul choke) I agree that mileage has certainly gotten worse overall in cars in the last 20 years but in a direct comparison there is a reason.