I am looking at the last of the old shape >2006 models. the type with independent rear suspension and not the torsion bar rear of the later lardy type r. what have you found reliability like and the whole driving experience. I haven't been to see it yet but may go tomorrow. .. I really like the older shape as it looks more sporty with cleaner lines.
yes you sure see one or two civics tarted up to look like R's they probably are the s or 1.4 tarted up as the young'uns would never insure one. but being after a non turbo sporty hatch the options are limited really as boyracers all have clios. astras 3 series and whatever else tarted up lol. I was looking at another M3 but just dont want the running costs of one again and the honda caught my eye
My neighbour has one. His son has the newer shape 'S'. He seems to love the car and works as a mechanic for the local Honda dealership in Newcastle. I don't think he'd have one if there were any issues.
To answer the OPs question. I have one, an black 2004 EP3, first year for the 'facelift model' If you get hold of a 2006, they're often called the premium edition as the used additional trick parts that were in the warehouse (branded tyre r calipers, tinted rear windows, that sort of thing) As a car, I love it, but its not exactly practical. The tank is small at 40 litres, so Im lucky if I get 300 miles to the tank and that when using motorways mostly. The suspension is firm, but ive got used to it now and its nothing worse than I've felt in other hot hatches. The cabin is very noisy, especially at motorway speeds, mostly due to the low profile and wide tyres. So holding a conversation is harder than a 'normal' car. Speaking of tyres, about £100 a corner will see you on some lovely rubber. The under carriage rusts a lots, especially the two heat shields on the exhaust. These will vibrate at 3000rpm which can be annoying. I replaced one and just took off the one on the Cat. Mine seems to use quite a bit of oil, but Ive read this is down to the Vtec system that kicks in around 4000rpm. The Vtec system is great and the intake howl is addictive. You cant put a tow bar on it and you can only carry four people in it. There is no middle seat in the back. Get air con, don't get leather seats. Red paint was the standard, with Gun Metal Grey, Silver and Black coming at a premium. White, often favoured was a non UK colour Hope that helps. If you were London based, you could have a go in mine to see what you think. Hope that helps Matt
