The numbers speak for themselves. Canada's best selling car, the Honda Civic hasn't changed prices that much.
The 2005 Honda Civic DX manual MSRP went for $16,200,
All Civics carry a 1.7-litre engine (tuned for higher horsepower in Si and Si-G) and come with a five-speed manual that can be optioned to a four-speed automatic, and disc/drum brakes. The coupe/sedan starts with the base DX line, which includes intermittent wipers, rear defroster, tilt wheel, 60/40 folding rear seat, 14-inch wheels and AM/FM stereo. The SE adds the new-for-2005 console armrest and keyless entry, along with air conditioning, CD player, front chin spoiler and power door locks.
the 2013 Honda Civic DX manual goes for $15,400
Features on the DX include 15×6-inch steel wheels, P195/65R15 89H (M+S) all-season tires, 4-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA stereo with auxiliary jack, electric assisted power steering, front disc/rear drum power brakes, front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension, Eco-assist driving coast w/ Econ button, front airbags, SmartVent™ front seat side airbags, ABS w/ electronic brake distribution and brake assist, vehicle stability assist w/ traction control, ACE II body structure, temporary spare tire, LATCH system, body coloured bumpers, power and folding door mirrors, two-speed intermittent windshield wipers, front splash guards, 12-volt accessory outlet (x1), power windows, auto-off headlights, center console storage, dual vanity mirrors, smart maintenance minder system, tilt and telescopic steering, 6-way manual adjustable driver’s seat, and floor mats.
So if you compare features, the new Civic is much cheaper, and much better car than before. Although you are right, it has hard to find a bare bones car for $10,000. Best way to do that, is buy a compact that is 2-3 years old....Probably better reliability than the Accent of those days...