They are both well-built cars with good reliability records. It's going to really boil down to 1) how much you want to spend and 2) what your tastes are. The Accord coupe is larger inside and out, more refined in manner/operation (particularly with the V6 engine), and often has a leather interior, and tends to come with more gadgets/accessories such as power seats. The Civic is less expensive to buy and operate (gets better fuel economy) and is easier to park and manuever, something important in urban areas such as San Francisco. Since I'm more into creature comforts I'd spring for the Accord, but it's really a matter of taste. Only you can decide for yourself.