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Consumer Test Drive - 1999 Honda Civic
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| Overall Rating: |
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| Updated |
Jun 10, 2004 23:06:51 |
| Rating |
 41 ( -6 -14.63% ) | | Author | Eddie Yapchian |
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Description:
Comfort Rating:
Performance Rating:
Quality Rating:
Appearance Rating:
Favorite Feature:
The VTEC motor produces 160 horsepower and for a 1.6 liter engine is remarkable. Additionally, gas mileage is in the 32 mpg range with spirted driving and runs on 'cheap' fuel.
Least Favorite Feature:
The radio is weak. There never seems to be enough power to reach a volume level that overcomes the road noise and sexy wail of the VTEC motor.
Advice to Buyer:
Get rid of the Michelin tires that come with the car. Aftermarket tires with stiffer sidewalls would make this good handling car great.
Detailed Review:
This 'econoracer' is well worth the advertised price. It includes all the options an autocrosser or weekend racer could wish for. The handling at low speeds is comfortable for a small car, but a higher speeds, its character changes to a stiffer, more controlled ride. With large diameter front and rear sway bars and the way cool strut tower brace under the hood, the car can be tossed into corners with relative ease and security, but I think the Michelin tires are a bit on the soft side. If anything could be replaced, stiffer sidewalled tires would be a good choice. The VTEC engine makes you feel like your driving a high performance ACURA INTEGRA GS-R for literally thousands of dollars less. It is deceiving how fast this cream puff actually is. Plus the conservative, but classy exterior will age quite well (and keep the police from noticing you). The radio, even with four speakers, is a bit weak and can't keep up with the wail of the VTEC when you get it really spinning. The AC is good, keeping the driver cool during the recent stretch of 90 degree plus days.
Also Considered:
1999 Acura Integra
1999 Audi A4
1999 Oldsmobile Alero
Vehicle Purchased:
1999 Honda Civic
Reviewer Information:
Location - Rindge, New Hampshire |
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