Honda Civic Hatchback (1995 - 2001) 1.6 VTi 3d (AC) (2000/W) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Probably that I'm a bit of a boy racer, but I don't really care, it's worth the stigma.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Friends love it, family think I'm a boy racer.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Without a second thought. Reliable (the B16A2 engine is bulletproof, mines done 157,000 miles and still never needs anything but oil and never misses a beat), looks good, has plenty of good features for the year (electric sunroof, electric heated door mirrors, electric windows, air con, remote central locking), and is so much fun to drive.
What are you likely to buy next?
Not sure, I'm running this into the ground! But whatever it is it will certainly be Japanese, and probably a Honda.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£500
When did you buy the car?
June 2013
Did you get a good deal and why?
The bodywork wasn't it particularly good shape so I got a good deal.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
An absolute delight to drive. Being the 1.6 variant the engine does lack torque in the low end, but low revs aren't the point of a VTEC engine ;-) once it hits 5200 RPM and the VTEC kicks in it pulls spectacularly screaming all the way up to 8600 RPM. The change in engine note as the VTEC engages is really satisfying. Handling is also superb, understeer is minimal, and while not the most comfortable ride it doesn't compromise too much. Road noise is fairly loud but not horrendous.
What's it like to park?
Being the 3dr parking is a breeze.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Aside from consumable items like brakes etc the only thing that has needed replacing are the lower ball joints on the front suspension.
What's most practical about your car?
The running costs and reliability.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Electric sunroof is a definite plus.
