1997 Honda Accord 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

Life saver

Faults:

Overheating.

General Comments:

I was just recently in a car accident that totaled my car. According to everyone who witnessed and saw aftermath of my wreck, I shouldn’t have survived. They had already called a helicopter to come to the scene. No one expected me to not be severely injured. But I was able to walk away on my own with only minor injuries. My car is completely totaled. I still just look at pictures and thank God for being with me and protecting me. I’m extremely sore and have lots of pulled and strained muscles, bruises, and sprained wrist. I honestly don’t remember much about the accident but I do remember being so grateful for a car that was made of metal and not fiberglass.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st February, 2023

1st Feb 2023, 23:07

From the 1990s onwards safety is good in most cars. 1980s or older - you really don't wanna be in a crash ;)

1997 Honda Accord VTEC 2.2 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Never want to part with it

Faults:

Nothing beyond the normal wear and tear expected of a 20 + year old car. I've only had it a year and not had to do much, but according to the detailed history, the brakes, exhaust, many suspension parts have been replaced. Previous owner also said minor rust had been professionally repaired, and the timing belt and water pump was changed.

General Comments:

Having missed my previous old Honda Accord's, when I saw this 1997 model with the 2.2 VTEC I knew I had to have it. Was looking at getting much more modern Accord's, but I thought why not keep it old school as this is going to be a second car and not my main mode of transport (I use a very modern Civic for that purpose).

So why would anyone keep a boring 4 door Japanese hatch/saloon from the 1990's as a second car? What is the appeal? For me I admit I am blinded slightly by nostalgia - I had a couple of these cars back in the day when new as a company car, but they were very basic models, this VTEC 2.2 has leather and all the options (most of which still work) and it's very comfortable to cruise in. Power is excellent from the engine even with the autobox. You pay for that with poor fuel consumption though - faster driving will result in less than 30 MPG, terrible by today's standards.

Looks very nice in dark metallic blue with alloy wheels. Inside is boring but comfortable. Amazing condition for a car over 20 years old however. My advice to anyone looking at a good condition Japanese car from the 1990's is go for it, they were and still are reliable cars, simple to work on and you can still find parts online for cheap enough.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th August, 2021

12th Dec 2021, 02:07

Thanks for the straight up review. I'm about to purchase a 1997 (non V-Tec), 4 cylinder with 106 000 kms (that's right), on the odometer. Test drove it and fell in love with the drive and airy cabin. I own a 92, and this generation drives smoother with better handling and comfort.

The owner is demanding a premium price (3800 Canadian), however the car was baby, pampered and meticulously maintained, and always parked indoors by the sole and original owner. Never accidented and almost mint condition inside and out.

Your review has solidified my decision to go for this 97 Accord which will likely be almost trouble free for the next 2-4 years.

In reply to 12th Dec 2021, 02:07

13th Dec 2021, 17:44

Good luck with the car, an Accord is a fine choice. Bear in mind it is over 20 years old so I would not daily drive it. Its reliability might be good, but I still would not use any car of this age everyday.

In reply to 13th Dec 2021, 17:44

13th Dec 2021, 22:34

I have 1992 Accord EXR and it is my daily driver 6 months a year (May-Oct) doing about 1,200 km a month. No issues as I have been maintaining it meticulously since buying it in 2017 from the original owner. I store it in the winter.

The 97 I am about to purchase will be my daily driver during the winter months, but I'll only be doing between 600-700 km a month. I understand and appreciate your warning. However, well maintained with prevention in mind, every 6 months I check: all gaskets, seals, belts, fluids, hoses and suspension components and change the oil/filter regardless of mileage. The previous owner did the same and has all the invoices and paperwork to back it up. As did my test drive when I pushed it to 145 km/h with ease and grace.

This car qualifies as a daily driver despite its age. At 51, I have never owned a car that is less than 15 years old. Quebec winters and salt conspire with potholes and bad drivers to deter me from owning newer cars. I just patiently wait for the right one to come up for sale... Keep us posted on that VTEC 97. You got yourself a rare model and I'm glad you're not using it as a daily driver.