After scouring the entire web for a second hand car, my husband & I were finally able to find one that is within our budget & at the same time, a car that is in good working condition. (",)
So, we bought a Honda Civic 2001 model, VTEC 3 engine, automatic transmission (I truly suck at driving manual cars), all stock/all original. We had it checked by a mechanic and he gave the car a clean bill of health. The only thing that was needed to be changed is the Steering pump kit, weather strip (right side passenger) & the upper engine support on the left due to wear and tear reasons as this is already an old civic. But overall, the mechanic's verdict is that the car is still in tiptop shape despite it being a 2001 car model.
Before we went car-hunting, we did our research first on what was the best option for a 2nd hand car. What we had in mind is that it should be fuel efficient, can be maintained easily, car parts are easily available and affordable and more importantly, the car should have at least a good re-sale value once we decide to go for an upgraded car.
From what I have gathered previously, a Honda 3-stage VTEC engine allows the engine to run in "economy" (stage 1), "standard" (stage 2) & "highpower" (stage 3) thereby one can attain high fuel efficiency* whereas the VTEC engine only has the "economy" & "highpower" modes.**
Aside from its engine's capability, we are also after a car's quality. By far, the feedbacks that I have read and from what the majority of our friends tell us - a Honda Civic is definitely one of the most reliable cars and it is also considered "inexpensive" for the quality that it can give us provided, ofcourse, we do our routine car maintenance to keep it in tip-top shape. Who wouldn't want a very dependable car especially when traveling for long distances? My husband & I love to go on out of town leisure trips - beaches, historical sites... you name it! Road trips are one of our favorite bonding moments. So, we think a Honda Civic can live up to our standards. =)
So, we decided that a Honda Civic is the best choice for us based on people's views/opinions or personal experiences with this particular car brand.
For now, I can say that this car is just right for us. We are happy to own a Honda Civic.
Cheers!
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