Honda Civic Hatchback (1995 - 2001) 1.4i 5d Auto (1998/S) 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?
I get the impression that people think it's an old man's car.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They're amazed I've never had a problem
Would you buy this car again and why?
No. The new shape civic has too many inbuilt problems, Honda have taken a great car & ruined it. The compact engine compartment houses an underpowered battery - if left unattended for 2 weeks the car won't start because the car's electrics (alarm, radio memory) have drained the battery. You have to buy 3 different sizes of windscreen wiper !!! Parking is difficult due to the way the bonnet just drops away & the high boot line and the hatch holds rainwater under the glass.
What are you likely to buy next?
Don't want to lose this car but having 2 growing teenagers plus a dog, we really need something more spacious. Thinking about the Sharan or Alhambra. Considered the zafira but it is based on the Astra chassis & we don't have enough room in the Astra estate!
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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?
£0
When did you buy the car?
May 2001
Did you get a good deal and why?
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Inherited from parents
What was the dealer like?
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Fantastic. It's happy to sit at 70 on a long motorway journey & (with magnets on the fuel line it returns a favourable 37mpg) it still holds something in reserve for overtaking. Around town I drive it like a limo to return 28mpg with an average of 25 (or less when the boy racers challenge me!) A firm, comfy ride with room for the family - certainly more legroom than our other car (wife's Astra estate).
What's it like to park?
Can be tricky, the high boot line plus a few inches of boot plus bumper can make tight spots difficult to negotiate.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Nothing. In 9 years, I have replaced the back 2 sections of exhaust - once only, replaced front tyres - twice and then usual new bits for service. It still has the original battery & I have only used the one key!
What's most practical about your car?
Despite being an 'old man's car' as well as being an auto box, it can see off many a boy racer at traffic lights. The downside of this is an increase in fuel consumption!
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
