Honda Accord Hatchback (1999 - 2003) 1.8i VTEC Sport 5d (2002/02) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

The accord is generally considered to be a bit of a "grandad" car, but I think the sport model regains a bit more of a youthfull look with the side skirts, flared bumpers and decent alloy wheels.

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

It's an accord, a sensible, reliable, dare I say, grown up car.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would, altough I would probably go for a newer model in the future. Or even go for a type-r for some serious fun.

What are you likely to buy next?

I never plan ahead, I just see what is on offer at the time when I need a new car.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£1,295

When did you buy the car?

March 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

Excellent deal, looking online, similar motors were going for up to £2500 at the time.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

New car to replace my Ford Escort which was dropping in bits.

What was the dealer like?

A local guy who deals mostly in part-ex stock, has upwrads of 80 cars in at any one time, cars are priced to sell, hence the good deal.

What's it like to drive?

Reasonable, when you are just driving from a to b or on the motorway, the car performs admirably, can be a little wobbly over the bumps.Oddly enough, I find that the harder you drive it, the better the handling, say you hit a corner at between 20-30mph, you can feel a bit of roll, nothing major, but it's noticeable. Hit the same corner with a bit more gusto, say 35-45mph, then it somehow feels more poised, more stable, but as with all front wheel drive cars, can suffer from some wicked understeer if you push it too far. Engine pulls well above 2000rpm and comes alive above 4000 when teh VTEC kicks in.As I have read on a few reviews online, I too find a couple of gearbox/clutch issues, namely it is quite difficult to get it into 1st and reverse.

What's it like to park?

Easy enough, although the skirting on the rear bumper sticks out a little further than normal, so can be quite deceiving.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not a thing, obviously not had it long, but owing to the accords sterling record, and hondas in general, I don't forsee too many problems in the future.

What's most practical about your car?

Nice, large, practical family car. Easy to get in and out of, plenty of space in the front and back, and that's saying something, as I'm a fairly tall and hefty bloke. Ample boot space.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Air conditioning, blasts nice and icy cold, one the rare occasions it is necessary in sunny england.