1.6 vs 1.7

[Deano85]

Ok this is how I see it (correct me if I'm wrong).

- 1.6 pros; lower price, looks ( the front end is dead sexy lmo), sportier handling, better aftermarket, some say it's more reliable (less sweaks and rattles)

- 1.7 pros; better fuel economy, 4 wheel discs, better abs, better transmission, side air bags, softer ride, quieter.

Basically what I'm looking for in my next car is; ultra reliable, good fuel economy, sedan, quiet with a comfortable ride, something that is enjoyable to take on longer trips.

I thought the EL would be a perfect choice, if anyone can think of another car I would appreciate it (I'm not brand loyal, a good car is a good car). Thanks

[RiceBoy]

You have basically described a Toyota Camry or Honda Accord with your needs. Why not an EL? The EL is not that quiet of a car, and the smaller size and, some would say, bouncy suspension makes it less comfortable as well. The engine can get noisy, and there is not a whole lot of insulation from exterior wind, tire and road noise. It's certainly better than any American car in the same price range.

If you can stand a little extra noise and a little less comfort, the EL, or even a Civic would suit your needs.

[Deano85]

I agree the camary and the accord have a nicer ride, but neither is very fuel efficient. Forget the camary, ES 300 baby

[RiceBoy]

Well, if all you wanted was fuel efficiency, then you'd buy a Toyota Prius. The Accord and Camry are fuel efficient for the cars they are, and consdering that they meet all of your other requirements.

ES300 is to teh Camry like the EL is to the Civic...which isn't really a bad thing... If I had the money, GS300 baby (the new one, not the old one), but I just settled for a TSX.

[Deano85]

The prius makes no sense money wise, I'm just going to go with the echo.

[RiceBoy]

The Prius, or any hybrid for that matter, only makes sense if you drive a lot and the vast majority of your driving is in the city, which is where you real gas savings will be.

The Echo is a good choice for excellent fuel economy, and I hear that it was fairly comfortable and roomy for such a small car. Personally, I didn't like the styling of the sedan, as standing still it looks like it's making a panic stop (the hatch that came later was better looking), and I don't know if I could ever get used to having the speedometer in the centre of the dashboard. But there's no denying it was a well built car.

Good luck in your search!

[Deano85]

Thanks Riceboy, I thought I was going to get flamed for even mentioning the echo. I really appreciate your helpfulness and kindness, thank you.

[rewsintegra]

if you dont mind driving an ugly car go for the echo.

[RiceBoy]

Yeah well, the sedan one could say is ugly (but to each their own taste), however the hatchback is actually pretty nice looking (the hatchback was only available in Canada, not the USA). FYI, the Echo was never really intended to be a sedan. But for North American tastes, Toyota just lopped off the rear quarter of the hatchback and stuck a trunk in there, and lo and behold, it became a sedan.

[Deano85]

Well I'd rather be drivng a fugly car then looking good on the side of the road.

That being said I've changed my mind, I think I'll go with an integra instead.

[BLEXV6]

My Mother-in-law has an 04 EL, which I drive preiodically. I have also driven an 04 Civic. Both are very good cars but the EL is just very nicely equipped. I love getting into it after driving my MDX. It's very sporty and it looks good, as it has the spoiler package. I wonder how many used units would be availiable? I know my MILs will be going to my kids.

[04 EL]

We have an 04 EL Premium with a spoiler too (sounds similar to what was describe below) that is on lease right now. Comes off in June '07. We have really enjoyed the car but have decided not to keep it. Whoever scores it, will get a great deal as it will only have about 60k on it (has like 41k right now). It's been a great car, and both my wife and I will be sad to let it go, but with a kid on the way and the cost of buying it out, it's just not worth it.

[BLEXV6]

Originally Posted by 04 EL

We have an 04 EL Premium with a spoiler too (sounds similar to what was describe below) that is on lease right now. Comes off in June '07. We have really enjoyed the car but have decided not to keep it. Whoever scores it, will get a great deal as it will only have about 60k on it (has like 41k right now). It's been a great car, and both my wife and I will be sad to let it go, but with a kid on the way and the cost of buying it out, it's just not worth it.

My MILs car is also the premium, but has 20,000 kilometers. Thats why it's staying in the family, that and my kids are 14 and 16. It's a beauty for them.

[NaaaS]

Honestly.. i drive a 2000 1.6 el... and ive actually surprisngly gotten alot of good reviews from friends and randoms... from what i've heard the 1.6 just straight up looks better.. Deano85.... i agree with your comment bout the front of the 1.6 i love the look of it.. its only a first car so i plan on selling it in about a year... but its had its fair shares of cons too..