Honda Civic Type-R (2001 - 2005) 2.0i VTEC 3d (AC) (2004/04) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I think it sums me up rather well! And it's in black, which is the fastest colour.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They like it, but are sick to death of me polishing it and endlessly going on about it

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, it's a complete no-brainer. It's excellent fun and it's a complete package. It looks good too.

What are you likely to buy next?

In the exceptionally unlikely event that I ever get rid of this car, I would get another one!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£11,500

When did you buy the car?

August 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

I got a good deal for the car, absolutely.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Because I have always wanted one of these.

What was the dealer like?

Private sale, top bloke.

What's it like to drive?

Driving it is a joy, out on the roads in the twisties it feels brilliantly planted and is enormously responsive through the gears - (you just have to use them right)! On the motorway, put it in 6th and you're away. The brakes are excellent and the handling is sharp and focused. Acceleration is excellent. It's a real driver's car, it encourages you to use the gears and to work it to get the most out of it. This is not a car for lazy drivers. I have found it to be consistently involving and exciting every time I have driven it, even if just through town at 30! It always brings a smile to my face. Keep the revs up and the gears low - it's a high revving engine that just asks to be driven. You can race it round a track or frive it to the shops - what more do you want?

What's it like to park?

No problems at all, it's a 3 door hatch.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Dodgy connection on a headlight, badly replaced windscreen - neither of which is a car-related problem.

What's most practical about your car?

It's a brilliant mix between pocket rocket and practical car - 4 seats, plenty of boot space, folding rears, all mixed in with the ability to get from A to C whilst passing through B at a blur - (where legal), the a great screaming engine.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Um, where to start? The engine, the brakes, the suspension, the dash-mounted gear stick, the 6-speed short-throw box, the excellent sports seats in the front...