1997 Honda Civic EX coupe review from North America

Passenger window would periodically jam up in the rubber molding, and would have to be re-aligned at the dealership.

The tensioner springs in the engine head broke, causing the engine to shut off immediately in traffic.

Transmission synchronizers broke, causing it to pop out of 2nd gear into neutral.

At around 30,000 miles, the engine was replaced due to improper wear on the crankshaft bearings.

The new engine rattles alarmingly every morning on cold startup. Although it stops when proper temperature is reached.

Second and third gears constantly scrape when attempting to engage.

Despite my Civics' vast history of engine failures, transmission flukes, and a handful of niggles, it has been a joyful experience.

The transmission, engine (first engine fault), and power window failures where covered on it's warranty, and Leith Honda of Raleigh NC has done a splendid job on fixing the Civic.

The most powerful part on my Civic is the clutch. Everything else failed at least once.

I bought the new engine from an importer. It was 1200.00 dollars with about 25000 miles on it.

Again Leith Honda installed the engine for right around 1000.00 dollars.

Because of my aggressive driving style, most of the power-train failures where my fault.

I decided to tone down my driving habits since then, and the Civic has remained faithful.

If you are a conservative driver and normally keep up with your oil changes, you will never have any problems with the Civics' power train.

The handling on this model is mostly acceptable, as it will progressively under steer on its limit.

Transmission gearing is well chosen, as you can select second gear at the start of corner, and work the throttle through the bend.

For first-time motorists, this car is a good companion for learning how to drive sportingly.

You can definitely surprise true sports cars with the Civics' handling abilities.

However, continuous "on the limit" use will render the Civic EX susceptible to accelerated premature wear on its power train.

If you are an aggressive die-hard Honda driver, do yourself a favor and buy a stronger-engined Honda Civic Si or Acura Integra GSR.

I'm 6'03 inches tall, and interior room is a little tight for me, but mostly comfortable.

Of course, gas mileage is decent with right around 29 mpg.

My Civic is almost paid for. I will most likely keep it, and buy something else additionally.