Allow me to Defend my Civic

"JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!" (jqj213) 03/17/2014 at 20:23 • Filed to: Rant, Civic, car, first car, compact battles

8

100

Recently, sales for the new Mazda 3 have been released. Oppo and Jalopnik went crazy, questioning what is wrong with people and why they would “drive something as bad as a Civic or Corolla.” I drive a Civic, so I became quite defensive. I want to let you into the mindset of someone who is driving an automatic Civic sedan over every other choice in the market.

Usually, telling people what I drive isn’t very fun. I get mocked; especially here since my car is “beige” and boring. But in reality it isn’t. This isn’t a review. This isn’t a rant (well, maybe a little). This is an explanation into my choice of vehicle.

Being 16 in the state of Florida is great for one reason; you can legally drive. I needed a car. I am a major gearhead. I wanted something cool like a Nissan 300ZX or a Volvo 240 or a Mazda RX-8. I looked at Mercedes and Volvos and Saabs but none were working. I had some bad restrictions because of my situation as well. This car I chose would be shared with my grandmother; who visits us from New Jersey every three months. This immediately eliminated any SUVs (too tall), trucks like the Subaru Baja and Honda Ridgeline (too redneck), sport-y cars (too low), and countless others. Then, I had to get an automatic since she wouldn’t drive a manual. I needed four doors because coupes (even ones like the Golf which is the same size regardless) are “small”. I couldn’t get American since they are “unreliable”, and then I had a small budget of $6000. Plus, I had my dad intervene as well; preventing me from getting anything older than I was or that had high mileage. These rules made it nearly impossible to get a car.

I gave up on Craigslist. Everything was either a scam, a wreck, or overpriced. I began looking on dealer lots; hoping to find something decent. I then saw a pop up for the 2013 Civic being on special for $149 per month. I began contacting the dealer and talking. I convinced my grandma that this was indeed the way to go for a car. The payments were low and the car was new, safe, reliable, and pretty good looking. I had a great experience at the dealer. I wasn’t upsold. I got a bonus since my mom drives a Honda. I ended up paying $199 per month with $1500 down for 36 months with 36,000 miles max. The car is in polished metal metallic and has the light interior. This was the exact combo I wanted.

By this point, you are maybe wondering why I didn’t consider other companies. I will explain here.

Hyundai-

I really liked the Veloster. I liked the aggressive looks and the three doors. However, the turbo, the one I wanted, cost too much. To get a base with a few packages came out to $219 a month with $2500 down. This also was with a 30,000 mileage cap. I have no interest in the Elantra since I hate the current design language. The other issue is both local Hyundai dealers were awful. The nearest good one was over an hour and half away. So, it got knocked off my list.

Kia-

When I began looking, the Forte sedan was still rather aggressive looking. Now, it followed the similar Hyundai/Kia flowy language, which I cannot stand. I also couldn’t bring myself to drive a Soul. The Rio was cool, but too small for me. Therefore, it was off my list.

Subaru-

They had a special going on for the Impreza. It was $159 per month on the site. However, this was for the sedan with a manual and no options. If I got a Subaru, it’d need to be the hatch. I started getting quotes for the premium hatch with an automatic and it shot up to $269 per month with a 30,000 mileage limit and $3000 down. There that goes.

Dodge-

I am a huge fan of the Dodge Dart. I ended up flagging down people who drove them to question them and let me know about it (sadly, over half of them were rentals so the people were either very rude or “too busy” or weren’t really “paying attention to how it drove.” From those willing to answer, they said they liked it a lot. I know a few people here have them and like them. The problem was the fact that the car was still rather new to market. Plus, being a Dodge, it isn’t expected to hold its value like its Japanese counterpart. This made the lease a lot more expensive. I was looking at around $259 per month with $3600 down and a 10,000 yearly limit on a GT with an automatic. This made it too much.

Chevrolet-

First, being American, it was already knocked off. But, I still looked. The Cruze is the main thing. My grandmother rented one and it was falling apart, which scared me a lot. I just personally did not like the way it felt or drove. The one I had a bit of interest in was the Sonic RS. I never realized how small they really were until we parked our Volvo S60 next to it. It wouldn’t work for what I needed.

Ford-

Fiesta ST was all that was on my mind. But, a manual was the only option. I couldn’t have it.

Mazda-

Oh Mazda. You missed me by so little. I was at a horrible point where dealers were still trying to clear off the 13 “Smiling” 3s. I hated it. The car looked too damn happy. The dealer had one hatch left in white and six sedans. As with the Subaru, if a hatch is available, you have to get it. The 14s were just rolling in. They had one of each. However, since it just came out, they were both fully loaded S Grand Touring editions; which broke the bank. However, talking with the dealer, I was getting quotes on the I Touring model; and it was quite expensive. Around $250 per month with $3000 down. I couldn’t do that.

Toyota-

I was not driving a Corolla.

Nissan-

I had a lot of interest in the Juke NISMO. I spent a good hour and a half with it at the local auto show. I loved the interior, the AWD system, and the look. But when I kept thinking about it, all I could think about was how small it was. My Civic has more cargo room than the Juke. Also, it isn’t the most manly looking car. I don’t know if I could live with it for three years. There was nothing else really doing it for me at that dealer.

VW-

There is one model that I’m actually quite upset didn’t exist when I was looking: the Jetta TDI Value package. It leased for $200 per month with $2500 down. It would’ve been perfect. If it existed, I may be driving a Jetta TDI now. The normal Jetta seemed a bit underpowered and bland. The Golf cost too much. Also, VW scares me a bit since my dad had a horrible time with his Passat.

I think that this covers everyone. If there is a company I forgot, let me know. I can easily add it. Hopefullly you can see that the Civic was the perfect choice for me. Sure it isn’t the fastest thing on the road. However, the car handles like a dream. I love taking turns a bit faster than I should and it does too. The steering is tight and precise and just feels right.

Is my car exciting? Not really. But it works great for me. I’ve been trying to convince my dad to let me get a second car. It almost worked. After this lease and I’ll be 18, I will be driving something dumb and much more exciting. But for now, I have a great car that does its job perfectly.

I have a feeling that this is why the 3 isn't selling like the others. It is new. It is different. The 3 is that new foreign exchange girl from London. She talks a bit funny and isn't used to your rules or customs. The Civic is the solid B+ student who doesn't do anything dumb and never misses too much school (that is what VW is for). The Fiesta is the jock; always seeming cooler than everything around him. The Juke is the weird kid who sits in the corner of the lunchroom and plays Pokemon on his DSi. The Veloster sits at the other end of this table playing Kingdom Hearts on an original Nintendo DS. There is nothing wrong with the Civic, it gets most of its work done and doesn't start problems. Isn't that what you want from a first car?

As always, thanks for reading.

Top pic from me of my car; all others from GIS

This bio is now a big thing. I have seen many of you guys use it. My name is Justin and I am a 16 year old Floridian high school student. Outside of school, I bag groceries, go to car shows, or play Xbox. It’s quite the life. Girls are confusing. I collect Hot Wheels too. Pepsi over Coke but gingerale trumps all. I think I’m out of things to say here.

puddler > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 20:24

1

nice baby camry.

AthomSfere > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 20:34

2

I have a Civic too, and love it... 07 Si replaced the 07 Ex, replaced the 00 Taurus (Inherited from wife, stupid...) replaced the 09 Sonata, replaced the 08 Fit, replaced the 97 Civic Ex, replaced the 90 Integra, replaced the 90 Accord LXi, replaced the 85 CRX, replaced the 79 Granada...

The worst cars I ever DDd for any reason though, both Toyota's, one a longish term rental and another an ex-girl friend's. Although that Taurus was damn close.

JR1 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 20:34

4

Just a reminder for Honda Civic haters:

Now I am not saying this car directly benefited from the F1 program but the heritage is nevertheless there.

theloudmouth > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 20:35

4

I got a Honda for my first car also.

All mockery aside it really is sad, not too long ago even if you'd gotten the auto you'd still have had double wishbones at every corner and a car truly capable of making you laugh in the corners.

My first beater was an 88 Civic hatch with an auto... an old school bang it up the gears auto. That thing was the greatest snow rally weapon ever and would obliterate anything once it got going (no mass whatsoever plus 185 "meat" meant you pull the E-brake it slides, you let go, it stops... always). Simply put, it was a riot.... Current civics, not so much.

Edit: For all you Jalop's, that was the only auto I've ever owned and will ever own (wife owned does not count).

hethoughtofcars > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 20:38

2

trucks like the Subaru Baja and Honda Ridgeline (too redneck)

You live in Florida and think a Baja is too redneck?!?

JustWaitingForAMate > JR1 03/17/2014 at 20:40

3

Yes, I see they both have 4 wheels.

JR1 > JustWaitingForAMate 03/17/2014 at 20:41

1

I am not even a Honda fan, in fact I am quite the opposite but I always liked the connection.

Forgetful > JR1 03/17/2014 at 20:41

1

That's more McLaren than Honda.

JR1 > Forgetful 03/17/2014 at 20:42

0

True but still Toyota doesn't have it!

Satoshi "Zipang" Katsura > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 20:43

0

If looks were more important than finances for your car...

Eeeugh.

PRBot II > hethoughtofcars 03/17/2014 at 20:45

1

It's Venice, not Gainesville.

MonkeePuzzle > JR1 03/17/2014 at 20:47

1

championship white on the civic type R

Forgetful > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 20:52

4

You have an appliance, and by all accounts a very good 'car'. It fits the needs you had to address. No shame in that.

You spend the whole article explaining how if you had your druthers you'd have ended up in something more interesting... so there's obviously a part of you that feels there's something missing in the Civic.

You're allowed to like your car for being a good car. That doesn't change how the car is perceived among the automotive enthusiast community.

AthomSfere > JR1 03/17/2014 at 20:53

0

Good point, and let us not forget the other good stuff Honda has done:

Prelude, Integra (RSX), S2000, NSX.

The days are past for now, but Honda has the ability to occasionally make a generational legend when it wants to.

BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 20:55

3

The Civic is a very underrated car. It doesn't have te flash and panache of the 3, but it's an undercover budget enthusiast's car. My 08 Si is built from the same stuff,
Just with a little better recipe. I agree. Around here, Honda gets no respect. They're phoenominal cars, but all anyone can ever see is the rice aspect. I guess they all forget how many riced out Supras, GT-Rs, and RX-7s have appeared trough the years.

Forgetful > JR1 03/17/2014 at 20:59

0

Toyota did whole race cars, not just engines. Granted they never actually won anything.

awe46m3zcp > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 21:11

1

16, and you get a brand new car? My first car was $2500, and I was grateful to get it. Now that I think back if it didnt need so much attention I probably would of never got into wrenching, and become a car guy.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > theloudmouth 03/17/2014 at 21:18

1

Its a shame that all the old Civics have now gone to the ricers.. a bone stock one is virually nonexistent. Id love an old school Civic hatch or wagon.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > hethoughtofcars 03/17/2014 at 21:19

0

My grandma is from NY. Anything with a bed is too redneck for her. I almost bought a Baja without tellkng her.. if only the seller wasnt insane with his price.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > PRBot II 03/17/2014 at 21:20

0

Hey! You remembered!

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > Forgetful 03/17/2014 at 21:24

0

There is a bit missing from the Civic.. mainly the fact that I can call it mine. At least with the used cars, I couldve said this was mine and meant this. My Civic is the banks. I cant touch it. I wanted an old car to tinker with. Sadly, I cant do it. My civic is almost too reliable.

And that was tthe point I was making. The car suits my needs. It does the same for many others. There is a reason behind some people's choice. I simply dont want to be grouped with those that buy it since its a car. I want people to know it wasnt my first choice.

newton > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 21:24

1

My roommate drives the the exact same car (same color too it looks like). I really can't get used to how spacious the interior feels. The windshield is just so far away from you!

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather 03/17/2014 at 21:25

0

All people think of with Honda is boring and rice. Honda fixed the ricers by making a car that isnt very easy to modify. Now they just need something more exciting.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > awe46m3zcp 03/17/2014 at 21:26

0

That's why I wanted this 91 Volvo 240 for $1500 down the steeet. It needed a bunch of work. And I wanted to. Grandma said no.

I think this car is helping since it is always reminding me to get something cool and exciting.

PRBot II > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 21:29

1

Your license plate frame really helped my memory. But some days I forget completely and assume you're up in the SRQ.

BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 21:30

2

Jeez dude. Now you sound like them. Drive an Si. Drive an S2000. Drive a TL SH-AWD. Drive a CRZ. They still make fun, exciting cars. They're just not as flashy as most of these newer cars that are half as reliable and have half the real substance. Do you know that the 2012+ Civic Si is faster than a manual GTI and almost as fast as an ST? The 2013+ models handle better too. People just seem to not believe it or see it.

PetarVN, GLI Guy, now with stupid power > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 21:42

1

Trust me, your civic beats my car!
Here's a picture of it!:

No, I didn't get kinja'd I just don't have a car lol. Personally I think there's nothing wrong with the '13 civic (other than your mandatory transmission choice) It also beats a good number of older cars on the road in terms of economy, safety and comfort. The fact that it's bland doesn't mean it can't be fun! That car probably has about 4 times the handling capability of a car built 25 years ago (in the same price range, inflation adjusted, and aimed for the same demographic)

Also, what you said about the base jetta being underpowered? it's so true!
Just remember though, a TDI value package is $21,750 for an automatic, and that's about $2K more than a 2.5SE jetta with an auto was. My mom drives a 5-speed 2.5SE Conv. and I get to drive it from time to time. It's gutsy enough, and it drives well

Aaron Short - PROUD OF LEYLAND > JR1 03/17/2014 at 22:01

0

Toyota went one step further and made their own cars and engines...

sellphones2493 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 22:08

0

Am I allowing you to defend your Honda Civic or Honda Financial Services for offering a decent lease?

RMudkips > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 22:17

1

It's always surprising that people my age have access to cars newer than 2010.

How's insurance, mileage and everything? I don't have my license yet, and when I do the most likely car option I'll have is the trusty '99 Odyssey that could be on its last limbs.

I talked to my dad about getting my own car, and already maintaining three vehicles, a fourth would be a little too much. He does some cool with my ridiculously weird suggestions though (I talked to him about an old Volvo and he couldn't care any less).

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > PRBot II 03/17/2014 at 22:26

0

We almost moved there but the traffic scares me.. I still go there at least once a week. Looking foward to the Carsand Coffee in April at the Porsche dealer

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather 03/17/2014 at 22:30

0

I never really told Oppo but I nearly got a CR-Z instead. The dealer was begging me to take it and gave me an EX for $18,500 (was worth over 22000) my grandma didnt like that it omly had two seats.. the lease on it was $205; id glady spend $6 more!

Im amazed by the V6 Accord Coupe.. that thing is stupid fast.

As for the S2K, I remember when my parents got their Accord and Pilot in late 06. They had a bright yellow S2K roadster with a manual in the middle of the show room. I sat there for over an hour pretending to be a racecar driver. Atthe time, I never knew it was anything special.

If they can get a flashy car, itd shut up the haters for a bit.. thatd be nice

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > newton 03/17/2014 at 22:31

0

The first thing I noticed up front was how much room theere was between the dash and windscreen. The backseat was really large too, considering its a compact car

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > PetarVN, GLI Guy, now with stupid power 03/17/2014 at 22:33

0

We went to that VW dealer and my mom was driving (since im not 18) and couldnt believe how slow that base engine is!

At least if the Jetta was a manual you can eek a bit more out of it.. VW de-Germanized the Jetta, which made me sad. I looked at a few Mk IV and they at least drove quite nice.

PRBot II > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 22:37

0

Well if the traffic is an issue, you can always roll in the Scatillac!

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > RMudkips 03/17/2014 at 22:39

0

I wasnt going to have this at all.. I had to do a lot of talking to do this haha.. I was so close to getting a $1500 91 Volvo 240 but wastalked out at the last minute.

I pay $90 per month due to good grade discounts, a drivers ed discount, and the fact my Civic has a lot of safety in it.

I get right around 29 mpg all city (rated at 30). This highway they estimate at 39 is ridiculous though.. I have never broken 35.

The main reason I could do it is because Ive been working since as soon as I turned 15. I worked a ton and was able to save and put all the money tpwards a car.

I want people to realize that im not spoiled and pay for all of this stuff!

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > PRBot II 03/17/2014 at 22:40

1

NO NO NO NO NO! But yes, the bus is special, especially since WHO THE HELL NAMES A BUS LINE AFTER ANIMAL FECES??!!??

desertdog5051 > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 22:41

2

You bought what worked for you under all the circumstances you had. We all make compromises in life. Good for you and good for defending your reasoning. I commend you.

PRBot II > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 22:51

1

Would it have killed them to name it Area Transit of Sarasota County (ATSC) instead?

/facepalm

If they change the name now, it'd be like admitting "Yeah, were wrong. We named it SCAT and that's gross".

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > PRBot II 03/17/2014 at 22:59

1

Exactly! I think it is too late now, like they have to use it to prove a point

RMudkips > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/17/2014 at 23:11

1

Your hard work's paid off for something much more practical than sneakers and coats. Most the guys I know with jobs my age like spending it on clothes and whatnot, but cars are far off.

Still, better to me than simply just getting good grades; proves you can be practical and show it.

The mileage is still better than some old Volvo at least, but not as "jalop". Don't worry though, the fact you have a recent car at an age like that is great.

texasfordfan > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 00:05

1

I remember talking to you about driving my friends Civic that has a stick shift. When I drove it, I was really surprised at how fun it was. Definitely more fun than my 06 Pilot. Plus Honda lets their automatics go all the way to redline if you floor it (at least mine does, so I am guessing that yours does too).

My mom has a 2012 Jetta TDI with an automatic (She hated the clutch more than she wanted a manual). I find it boring. I think the civic is more fun to drive.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > texasfordfan 03/18/2014 at 00:10

1

I was shocked... just the other day I needed to floor it when I merged onto the highway (the person in front of me failed at it so they made me completely stop and I needed to get to speed quickly) and it hit 6500 RPM and I was shocked.. it was an incredible noise and I never knew autos did that!

texasfordfan > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 00:34

1

And if your transmission is anything like mine, then it has well chosen gear ratios. My Honda only has 5 speeds, but it still holds 2700 or so rpms at 70 mph, while still having a wide enough spread to always have plenty of power.

ConcreteShoes > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 00:36

0

I don't understand. You say you would have to get the Subaru and the Mazda in hatch, but buying a civic sedan proves that was incorrect. Please explain?

CobraJoe > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 00:47

1

No offense, but you did the exact thing the Demuro post was condemning: you avoided several models for fear of reliability. (Of course, avoiding a specific vehicle because it has been proven to be unreliable is ok, just not avoiding a brand because of no proof.)

Also, I must point out that you ignored several fine cars from your search. The Fiesta has several trim levels, not just the ST (Not to mention that the ST would likely have been outside of your price range). The Focus is the same size as the Mazda 3 and well liked, the Mazda 2 is the same size as the Fiesta and well liked. The Fit is another small hatchback that most owners love. Even the Yaris is supposedly a fun compact. Good call on the Corolla though, it's the worst car I've ever experienced (it was a 2009 base model).

In the end, I'm glad you're happy with you're choice, and I'm glad it's better than the reputation it has gained around here.

PICKLEBOY > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 00:52

1

So much hate on the corollas here at Jalopnik. The latest corollas actually aren't that bad at all (yes they're boring to drive) for the needs you were describing. The interiors on the latest ones are quite nice, much better than most of their competitors. Although they're not the best looking car they definitely aren't the ugliest.

Btw if you were on such a budget how did you buy a new car??? And why did you buy a new car??? Any used car that's Japanese for it to be around 6000 would either have to be 7 or so years old with around 100k miles or even older with less miles

BugEyedBimmer - back in the Saddle Dakota Leather > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 07:21

1

It's just not their style. Think about it. The CRZ is really the flashiest car they've ever made. Even the S2k, arguably one of the best sports cars of the last 20 years, went about its business without shouting about it all. And it's a double edged sword. If Honda came out with an Si with the level of flash or gimmick that the ST has, it would automatically be hit with the "ricey" tag. People want a reason to hate them.

Yngwie Malmsteen > puddler 03/18/2014 at 07:40

0

Probably the best thing to compare a Camry to, as its direct competitor (the Accord) has wiped the floor with it...

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > PICKLEBOY 03/18/2014 at 08:27

0

It was all because I worked and saved. I worked a ton over the summer and was able to take that money and be able to pay the $199 per month.

And the new one, like the Hyundai and Kia, has too many creases and looks like a "car designed for the young" I hate that. i want my car to look grown up, which this does

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > CobraJoe 03/18/2014 at 08:30

0

Honestly, I never really liked Ford to begin with. I had a 13 Focus Titanium as a drivers ed car and I hated it so much. At least the ST has a bit of spunk to it.

As for the Fit, it was too old fashioned. Id also be upset since the new one is right aroudn the corner. You'd need to get one with the Navi to get any bluetooth... it doesn't have anything like the Civic does.

I thought the Mazda 2 seemed cool but it looks so simple and bland, so I had to pass.

The Civic is a good car, it doesn't deserve the hate

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > ConcreteShoes 03/18/2014 at 08:31

0

Over in the US, there is no Civic hatch available.

I was saying that if a car is available in both hatch and sedan (Focus, Impreza, 3, etc) then I'd need the hatch

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 09:31

0

Fine. Your dad is everything beige. This isn't a defense, it's what the article was complaining about. Jeez, a v6 Mustang would have fit the bill, and is one of the most reliable cars on the road.

Seriously, my first car was a rolled over f-150 I put back together myself. My third car was a 1968 Ford Mustang 302 - the body was custom/perfect - the engine and transmission were shot. I got it for $1750, and we rebuilt the engine and transmission, and total cost was around 6K.

There's always a way.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > snksraven 03/18/2014 at 10:26

0

Mustang.. Umm 2 Doors, American, much higher lease than $199, not the best gas mileage... it works great.
And if you read everything, you'd see it wasn't possible. My family isn't a car one. I'm the first with the passion.we have no garage space or tools or the like. I needed a perfectly running car.
No, it isn't ideal. But my hard work got me it. I'm not getting a free ride from my parents .
And my dad now drives a 12 Volvo S60 ; he had a Vw Passat. A Saab 900 convertible, a Jeep Cherokee, a Impala convertible, a Camaro IRoc-Z, And more; not beige.

ConcreteShoes > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 11:38

0

Right that's what I don't get. You clearly are willing to get a sedan. So if a Mazda 3 or impreza sedan was cheaper (which it sounds like it was) and you sounded like you preferred Subaru or Mazda then why does the availability of the hatch negate the sedan?

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > ConcreteShoes 03/18/2014 at 11:46

0

It wasn't that I was willing. It was that Honda didn't offer one. To me, it seems dumb that if both options are available, and you get a sedan, you are being kind of silly. With Mazda, like I said, I was between years. The old smiling one was not good at all.
For the Subie the sedan isn't as good; especially in looks. And still, to get one with what I need, it'd end up being more than the Civic.

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 12:03

0

Lease is $219 around here. Purchase used/off-lease even cheaper. With 42% reduction & some lightening (battery, spare tire, etc) & bumping air pressure in tires - regularly get 38mpg highway.

Again, it's not really a defense of buying a Civic - It's a self defense on behalf of a beige family.

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 12:04

0

If it was your hard work, what say does your father have anyway?

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > snksraven 03/18/2014 at 12:16

0

I don't have the upfront money to buy anything; which is why I leased. I'm not going to sit there and strip down my car either. It is in no way the same class of my Civic and doesan't work at all for me.
And why does my dad have say? Im 16. I still live with him. He is still in charge. He would be helping me when stuff goes wrong, which he doesn't really want to and I don't blame him. Im not a stuck up ass. I love my parents and respect them enough to listen to what they say.
And its not a beige family. Not everyone has to love cars at all. My parents have car history. The reason they want me to have something new and reliable is so I dont have the issues they had. Like I said, they care about me. My mom doesn't want anything dangerous since she was in a car accident that was quite serious and traumatizing. My dad thanks the Toyota wagon he had on the isalnd of St. Thomas for saving his life when a tourist was on the wrong side of the road and struck him head-on.
Is your whole family car oriented? My house has no room or space to be able to sit there and rebuild a car. I don't have the time or money to rebuild engines and transmissions.

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 12:48

0

I put the truck together in our carport. My 1968, wrenching in the driveway. I bought the tools as I needed them. No biggie. I still have all the tools I bought in high school.

(P.S. It's actually a higher class of vehicle, and is a LOT better in a crash than a Civic) Mustangs hit head on with f5 tornados and hurricanes start right up and drove the owners to safety.

It's not a matter of reliability, safety, or anything else.

thunder1979 > JR1 03/18/2014 at 13:06

0

Now I'm not saying the Mazda3 directly benefited from the 787B winning the 24 hours of Le Mans, but the heritage is nevertheless there. ;-)

ScottsMerkin > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 15:35

1

Last year my Accord coupe got totaled. I had just had a kid as well so now I needed something 4 dr, reliable and yet sporty/fun. I came out with a slightly used Civic SI 4dr. There is nothing beige about the car. Does it compare performance wise with the top level Mazda 3 or VW, no but I couldnt afford a slightly used one of those on the new family budget. Anyhow, dont let car snobs get you down, if you like what you drive who cares. We all have different tastes and opinions and thats fine. Your opinion is yours to own, no one can prove your opinion wrong

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 16:23

0

http://editorial.autos.msn.com/15-used-cars-t…

Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are both problematic in the reliability area.

gabdere > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/18/2014 at 17:07

1

I think you did some very good shopping and ended up with the right car for your situation. Lucky you have a 13 with the proper automatic. And I also think a Civic drives a lot better than a Corolla and is much more solid. But know the 14 have a CVT, Honda removes a fun factor from the Civic each year...

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > gabdere 03/18/2014 at 19:50

1

I was recently at the dealer since my mom was getting her Pilot serviced and they had a 14. I asked the dealer to take me on a ride since it was dead anyway. It is amazing how much slower and less engaging the CVT felt. It never got high in the RPMs like mine and felt more subtle. I joked with my dad that I was for once happier with the older model; which is a rare thing.
I looked up both... a lot. My grandma was pushing for the Toyota. It just looks a lot cheaper and didn't feel as put together.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > snksraven 03/18/2014 at 19:54

0

Im in a community where Id never be able to do that.
Plus, the Civic, which is a top safety pick + from the IIHS (one of the only compacts to do so) ( http://www.honda.com/newsandviews/a… ) isn't as safe as a Mustang, which got acceptable in a side impact?
Also, why are you so set on Mustangs? They don't work. It wouldn't work for me at all.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > snksraven 03/18/2014 at 19:57

0

The V6 has some transmission issues; problems also seen on the Acura models. That isn't that huge of a deal. All cars have a few bugs. I remember Honda releasing certain deals fixing the tranny so they won't even have that issue anymore.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > ScottsMerkin 03/18/2014 at 19:59

0

I think that that is one of the most annoying bits is the fact that people don't understand we don't have unlimited money and when we get requirements we need to follow them. The Civic wasn't my first choice, but for what I needed I did the best possible. I really don't understand all the hate

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/19/2014 at 09:26

0

;-) A friend of mine went through three transmissions before he gave up on the car. transmission failure is not a bug.

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/19/2014 at 09:27

0

It's in the price range, and a much better buy.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 10:18

1

So I NEED a very cheap and safe 4 door sedan but I should get a 2 door Mustang with average crash test ratings and a higher price?
Makes great sense.
I don't know think a Mustang is any better at all.. Lower build quality, higher insurance rates, less reliable, compared to a Honda Civic, which is cheap to insure , has great quality, and cheap insurance

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/19/2014 at 11:08

0

Lower build quality than a Civic?! LOL! There are a LOT more 10+ year old Mustangs than Civics on the road. 6 cylinder cars are not expensive to insure.

You chose a bland car, because you wanted a bland car.

In 10 years, that car will be as rare as a Celica on the road, because they are crappy cars that will be thrown away like so much rubbish.

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 11:42

0

Yeah... not buying that at all. The Civic, one of the most dependable longest lasting cars on the road, doesn't have many still alive. There are tons. And they hold their value so much, you see three year old ones still going for over $10,000. When, where, how did you hear that there are not many Civics left on the road? Im sorry but you are fucking mad. Absolutley mad.

It wasn't that I wanted a bland car at all. As I said a long time ago, it was what suited my needs. A 4 door sedan with a lease under $200 per month and an automatic. NOT BECAUSE I WANTED IT BUT BECAUSE I NEEDED TO SHARE IT WITH MY GRANDMA. I nearly bought a $1500 beater Volvo. I almost bought a Subaru Forester or Baja. Looked at a Mercedes Benz C class. I was a few feet away from buying a Nissan 300ZX. IT WASN'T MY FIRST CHOICE.

And yes, a two door, 6 cylinder FORD MUSTANG will cost a hell of a lot more than a fucking 4 door, four cylinder HONDA Civic. ANd you know thats true.

Hondas don't get tossed away. They sell on dealer lots. A lot. It was the best selling car in Canada 16 years straight. Back in 08 it was the best selling car in the US. THey sell a lot since they are reliable AND MEET PEOPLE'S NEEDS!

Party-vi > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 12:20

0

From 2005 to 2011 Mustang sales were about 765,000 vehicles. The Civic sold more than 1,500,000 vehicles in the same time period.

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/19/2014 at 13:00

0

Where are they? You see a ton more 80s Camaros, Mustangs, etc than preludes, civics, and CRX's. Same goes for 1990's Preludes, Civics, etc.

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/19/2014 at 13:02

0

http://www.cars.com/for-sale/searc…

17 total

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/19/2014 at 13:03

0

http://www.cars.com/for-sale/searc…

292

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 13:31

0

You have Pre-1990... For Civics! Cars that never made it big here until the mid 90s. 80s Civic barely existed then! Move the year up to 1995, it'll shoot up. You are looking at Civics before they were the everyone car!

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/19/2014 at 14:07

0

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2010/12/curbsi…

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/19/2014 at 14:08

0

Sorry, Honda sold a lot more Civics than Mustangs in the 70's, 80's, etc.

snksraven > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! 03/19/2014 at 14:12

0

http://www.cars.com/for-sale/searc…

555 cars throughout the country for all of the 1990s

from 1995, 35 are on sale.

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 14:16

0

http://www.cars.com/for-sale/searc…

1063 Mustangs available

Sorry, Honda's may have high initial build quality (which includes stuff like panel gaps, plastic touch finish, etc, -which have no basis in the operation of the vehicle) but they are not durable, at all, or particularly reliable.

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 14:17

0

Exactly. They are obviously not more likely to live more than 10 years - Initial Build quality is not a measure of Durability.

snksraven > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 14:27

0

whups, including 2000, there are 778, civics from all the 1990s. I included 2000, as the 10th year of the 1990s.

Party-vi > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 14:29

0

You don't think this has anything to do with the fact that the Honda Civic outsells the Mustang by a shitload, do you? In 2013 alone, Ford moved 77,186 Mustangs while Honda blasted 336,180 Civics out showroom doors.

Also, your search is bullshit anyway - I found 3,076 Mustangs for sale from 1990-2004 (you know, older than 10 years) and only 2,707 Civics for sale in the same year range. Since we know for a fact that the Civic has outsold the Mustang in the past few decades It's safe to assume that there are more Civics still owned than Mustangs.

Stating that Hondas are not durable or reliable leads me to believe your knowledge on cars in-general is questionable. Facts are facts, man. You can't seriously believe that the Ford Mustang is more reliable or durable than the Honda Civic.

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 14:33

0

No, those are those available for purchase which is an indicator of the size of the market.

This obviously does not count the thousands of mustangs which are Off-Road titled for the purposes of racing, nor the thousands of cars which are molding in someone's back yard.

I am more likely to see a 1976 Mustang II, than a 1995 Civic on any given day.

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 14:36

0

Frankly, I'm more likely to see a 1965 Mustang than a 1998 Honda Civic.

Party-vi > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 14:39

0

Right. So the size of the used car market for Mustangs between 1990-2004 is larger than the used car market for Honda Civics between 1990-2004. So, the demand for a Civic is higher than the demand for a Mustang; alternatively, the supply of Mustangs unwanted by current owners is greater as there are more of them up for sale.

You are more likely to see a 1976 Mustang II up for sale and molding in someone's back yard while they drive their 1995 Civic to work.

Party-vi > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 14:48

0

If you own a 1965 Mustang I would be inclined to agree with you. Frankly, I'm more inclined to see a 1949 Jeep than a 1998 Honda Civic, but that's only because one of them sits in my driveway.

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 14:53

0

No, I own a 2003 Ford Mustang - I was never that fond of the 1965s, but there are three which are daily driven on campus here - either by students or faculty/staff.

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 14:54

0

If the demand were higher, there would be more for sale, at higher prices. Not the case.

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 14:55

0

Have you taken economics?

Party-vi > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 14:57

0

Just Macro. I'm assuming you have a graduate degree?

Party-vi > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 14:57

0

You should go look for a '98 Civic.

Party-vi > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 15:00

0

Demand does not increase supply, just cost of the existing supply; we're assuming supply is constant, or rather is not influenced by demand. If supply were influenced by demand every single Ferrari GTO would be up for sale all the time. If you see 10 red cars for sale and 5 blue cars for sale on the same lot, you would assume the blue cars are in demand because there are less for sale.

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 15:08

0

Supply is supply, if there were 2x as many mustangs and they were in demand, there should be more for sale, as demand would be strong. The market would adjust by increasing prices until they were freed into the market.

Instead, they are clearly not valued, and there is no demand for them.

Exotic markets are not the same as commodity markets, and yes, Ferrari GTO sales are now equal to or higher than the purchase price for them in constant dollars (as one would expect).

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 15:14

0

Why would I do that? My sister had one, and it drove her nuts.

Party-vi > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 15:20

0

I meant in the parking lot on campus. Guaranteed you'll find more Civics than Mustangs, regardless of year.

snksraven > Party-vi 03/19/2014 at 15:32

0

New? of course, they sell more than 2x the rate of Mustangs. After 10 years they are all gone. And yeah, I can walk out in the parking lot throw a stone and hit a Fox Body, still.

Party-vi > snksraven 03/19/2014 at 16:00

0

Sounds like your school is stuck somewhere in the South, circa 1993.