blondee_yvr wrote:

[snip]

> Ok, so if I do decide on a Honda, which model, and cylinder would
> bring me the most bang for the buck and still be reliable. BTW, I
> should tell y'all I think I am cursed when it comes to reliability.
> ;-)

[snip]

Whichever model you decide on, do not get the automatic transmission,
especially if you're looking for a sporty feel to the car. Granted,
automatics have come a long way in the past 20 years, but they are still
slower, less responsive and reliable than the manuals. A V6 engine will
offset some of those drawbacks (at a cost in even worse reliability),
but an I4 engine, especially the Civic one, will be sloooooow.

I was recently in the market for another car to replace the 94 Accord
before it completely devalued, and I decided to get the 01 Prelude SE
5spd. With only 18k miles, mint shape, it cost me as much as a brand new
Civic Si coupe, but it's a much better car. But if you're looking for a
brand new car, then maybe the Acura RSX, or the Accord coupe (I4). Those
were some of the sporty cars I was considering before settling on the
Prelude.

If you're looking for a sedan, the Civic sedan looks completely dated,
and the Corolla is not much better. However, have you ever considered
the Mazda 3? I love the styling, and the performance with the 160hp
engine is pretty good. It gets close to the price of the Accord though
and it's in such high demand you're not likely to get any incentives
from the dealers.

Cosmin