USED Honda Accord Saloon (98 - 03)

My car

Most folks who buy the Type R will have done their research and know everything there is to know about the model before purchase. Mine is a pampered 7 year old with only 50k up. One known fault is dodgy 5th gear synchromesh on early ones. Go for the pre-facelift model with twin pipes. Running costs can be high on fuel if you do the miles (use only Super U/L !). Insurance if you are of a certain age is cheap if you also live in the countryside. Very durable and reliable car, mine still has original brake discs and shocks. Have to use platinum spark plugs (approx. £ 80 a set). Shop around the Honda dealers for service costs, sometimes they will negotiate if you are prepared to ask. If you can find a clean example with known provenence there is no better way to spend £ 6k. Finally avoid modified examples e.g. 18 ins wheels, the standard car is fine, Honda got the most out of this engine as is possible to get.

My car

This car is beautiful to look at and brilliant to drive. At 4500rpm the engine sings a wonderful tune and that's all you hear because road noise is kept at bay nicely.

The boot is enormous and getting in is simple enough too.

The leather seats really support you from the sides and in the lumbar and are endlessly adjustable, at least the driver's seat anyway.

The sound system is BOSE and has four speakers and a seperate subwoofer, the standard head unit isn't up to much but replace it for a decent one and it'll love you for it.

The ride errs on the side on performance and handling rather than comfort, but it is far from uncomfortable and it comes in handy in the bends.

Leg room in the back is good, no matter what anyone else says, im 6 foot 2 and I sit in relative comfort in the back.

I hope this helps you to make a decision about your next car and definitely put it on your test drive list. Ignore the unusual clutch because you get used to it, I promise.

My car

I bought my Honda Accord used from a dealer when it was just 2 years old and at a very low mileage. The car drives very well is is very comfortable on long drives. Fuel consumption is superb, performance can be enhanced with aftermarket induction kits.

The roar of the VTEC is exhilirating but only from 4500 rpm onwards. Although you don't need it very often, it gives a kick when overtaking which I think is where you'll used it the most. Handling is fine but can be improved with after-market suspension for more precise steering.

Safety systems work very well when needed. Reliability is the selling point of this car. At 5 years and 36K miles, a regular service is all it needs to keep it in tip-top condition. A very reliable family car with a touch of performance.

My car

I have had this car for nearly two years now and nothing has failed, at all. The only running costs have been a very expensive puncture at £150.

I have the Sport version with titanium look trim, although equipped with everything you need ABS, EDB, EBA, CD, Aircon, Alloys, all electric windows and mirrors, the cabin does not look like it has, as it is very plain.

It is very roomy, with a large boot and a it is very fast motorway cruiser, (the v-tec engine reaches its peak power at about 80, so you can very quickly get yourself in trouble overtaking at motorway speeds.) It does however stop and corner very well. So no worries about handling.

I bought it pre-registered with 30 miles on the clock for £10,995, so all in all it is hard to be disappointed with it. The only down side when it is due for replacement I will not be able to afford a new one.