1996 Civic starting related

Mine is a 1996 civic auto transmission, 213K km. Last winter (<15C
outside) there was no problem starting as it used to start immidiately
after turning it ON. But now a days in hot summer conditions, evey
morning temperature falls as low as 5C and starting takes more time
(2-3 seconds) than it usually takes when the engine is warm. I am sure
it did not happen in the Winter. I checked TeGGeR's FAQ section but my
problem does not fall into any categories there.

More specifically, when I try to start a cold engine, it sounds
chugga-chugga-chugga and then starts (in one attempt, of course). My
spark plug wires are original NGK and they are new. Car is well
maintained. If this persists, I wonder whether it will start in the
coming Winter!

Suggestions are always appreciated. Thanks.

 

Correction: I meant temperature in Winter was below minus 15C.

 

How old is the battery?

I would start by checking its voltage per the five quick
checks at
http://home.earthlink.net/~honda.lioness/id13.html

 

Actually I don't know as I bought it used. So I will check it with the
mechanic on my next oil change. Thanks.