I bought it a few months ago, and it is still in great condition. Low k's to start with, it had had a new gear box and clutch over haul about 2 years ago, new starter motor recently too.
So far nothing is wrong, but its the kind of car where you can really feel it coming up for a service. It performs great, but if you suddenly need that extra belt occasionally, the car will do it, but not so easily.
For a first car, it's magnificent. Extremely comfortable with the big seats and leg room.
With the sunroof open and windows down, it's like a convertable.
The 2.0 engine is good, but if it was maybe a 2.2 or 2.4, that'd be ideal because the car is big. But with a manual, you learn where abouts the power comes from (eg- 2nd gear, 40km/h and onwards is where you get the power)
Very good vision when driving.
Huge boot or trunk.
With front wheel drive, you lose a tiny bit on the turning circle, but not enough to seriously bother anyone.
Very economical - A full tank lasts a long time.
Looks great with the flip-up lights and just in general. The car sits quite low to the road, and does not have a lot of height all over. My paint job is perfect, and I've got the spoiler and tinted windows... it seriously does turn a lot of heads when you cruise past.
For a first car, it's ideal. Good amount of power, good size, good looking machine, good options (everything is electric).
I love it.
I have one of these also as my project car. I got it with a small bit of accident damage. I'm replacing mine's 5spd manual as well, and my starter motor died on me. It has a lot more power than my other car, which is brilliant. It would still be better with VTEC though I reckon.
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