i want to buy a used car and i'm wondering what to buy, currently i have some options:
8th/7th gen honda accord eu with the automatic transmission 5 speed and both with a 2.0L engine, 155 hp in the 7th gen, 156 in the 8th.
a mazda 3 2015 sedan with a 6 speed automatic transmission and the 2.0L skyactive G165 engine with 165 hp.
or a 2015 honda civic 1.8L with 142 hp and the 5 speed automatic transmission.
will occasionally drive people but mostly i will drive alone, i want an averaged sized, good looking car with enough oomph that is backed up by reliablility (very important), and decent fuel economy, i don't live in the US so gas is alot more expensive but i don't drive that much and even the 7th gen accord doesn't hog too much gas
i currently drive a 1.6 cvt corolla with 132 hp 2013 and it's really slow like a dog and makes a terrible droning noise in the highway, i know every one of the options i have will be quicker, what i know for sure i that i want a regular automatic in a car and it shows in my options
I would love some more insights from owners for one of my options about fun to drive, reliability (i know they are really good, even the mazda3 is quite good) and of course zippiness is important!
what do you think scotty?
thanks!
The accord is a different class of vehicle. Mazda and Honda quality are pretty close for the years. I would go with the Mazda as it is more enjoyable to drive. It also looks better in my opinion.
can the mazda hold up many miles like the honda engines and tranny?
The newer mazda engines like this yes.. Honda automatics are a little weak. Mazda had problems with autos until the 6 speed. They seem to have less problems than the Honda auto.
I'd go Civic or maybe the Mazda 3. Test drive them and see which one you like better, and make sure to have a mechanic check them out.
my concern about the civic is that it will be boring to drive and slow as the corolla 1.6 132 hp
Then test drive the Mazda 3 to see if you like it. Those cars handle better and are more fun to drive, after all they are zoom zoom;)
I also know Accords in some countries are Acuras here in the US, so test that out as well maybe you'll like its sporty+luxurious combo.
In terms of longevity, Honda will outlast Mazda.
are the 1.8 engines good for 250k-300k km?
Yes, they are pretty much bullet proof if taken care of.
Stick to the Hondas..
https://www.motorreviewer.com/engine.php?engine_id=83
https://www.motorreviewer.com/engine.php?engine_id=163
I’d buy a Honda long before I’d buy a Mazda..
What about a Camry?
being fun to drive and fast is also important to me
is the 1.8 civic automatic powerful enough? is it fun to drive? will it feel faster than the 1.6 132 hp corolla?
Since you’re coming from a 1.6L Corolla, I’d say you’ll be the best judge of performance from your present baseline. I suggest test driving all 3 of your options. My vote is for the Accord, but try out the Civic 1.8L. They are extremely fun to drive & zippy with a manual.
another concern of mine is that the civic is made in turkey while the accord and mazda are made in japan
does it actually matter like scotty says?