Faults:

It needed a new radiator.

Has a slight leak in the sunroof.

Had a crack behind the Headlight which let water in and caused steam.

General Comments:

All of the things that went wrong with the car can be expected on a car with this mileage.

It is the most reliable car I have owned and still looks amazing even at nearly 10 years old.

I have put some 17" alloys on it and a 5" exhaust just to make it look better.

I'm only a young lad and I have managed to afford to tun it so the petrol consumption isn't too bad, however parts are very very expensive e.g. £200 for a new headlight.

It isn't super fast, but is fast enough. Acceleration is great and it throws you back in your seat.

Overall it's been an amazing buy for

£2500. I'm definitely buying Jap from now on.

Faults:

Vibration started occurring under heavy braking. I assumed a warped disc, but was informed by Honda that just a thorough clean and de-glaze was needed. They did the job and braking is nearly A1. But not quite...

Tiny whistle at speed from a shoddy repair.

General Comments:

This car is almost my friend. I should share a couple of points with you, though.

It is not a sports car. It just hasn't got enough oomph. Catch the revs right, though, and there is a suspicion of tasty urge. Be warned: don't square up to a proper car - you'll watch it vanish.

Having said that, the handling is lovely. Such poise and predictable understeer can make anyone feel like an artist. I'm convinced I can confuse the four-wheel steer in chicanes, but maybe I'm just inventing things.

The Vtec sisters are slightly faster (I'd have bought one if I'd found a good example in time), but there isn't a huge difference.

Lots of car for not much dosh. Enjoy, but be prepared to look longingly at swifter rivals. If they'd fitted it with a three litre powerplant, we'd be talking about a classic...