What is the better platform for these beauties (IYO). I have to get a sedan for practical purposes so that leads me to ask, 4 or 6? I know anything with a 6 cyl is going to be a little more expensive, exhaust, plugs, headers, so can anyone run some pros and cons by me?

 

Oh by the way, auto tranny. This is a vehicle my wife may need to drive on the occasion and she don't do stick.

 

Auto tranny is weak for 1998-2002, especially for the V-6.
I'd try to get into 7th-gen 4-cyl to get away from that. I like the looks of 6th-gen better, but balance that against the weak tranny.

Best solution is a 5-speed manual, but I guess you already answered that one...

 

I hear you on the transmission. The main problem is, the 7th gen accords are a little out of price. Especially considering I can get a 2001EX with about 80k miles for around 6500. For a similar mileage 7th gen, its about 9k. I can't get a 5th gen (my all time favorite besides the old hatchbacks) because, bank loan requires model within last 10 years.

 

If you have to get a 6th gen then get the I4 without a doubt. Like Jim mentioned, the V6 has been the one with the most problems although that does not completely rule out tranny failure for the 4cyl. I have an '02 and have had no problems with the auto tranny thus far. Good luck in whatever you choose man.

 

And if you find a good one, keep it healthy with ATF changes. I think the owners manual says 60k miles or something rediculous - don't wait that long. Drain & fill, don't do the POWER-FLUSH thing. Use actual Honda ATF.

 

I did some research online about it and this is actually concerning me now. I don't want to jump ship (going civic or acura) but I am stuck between a rock and a hard place on this decision. I know transmissions aren't cheap, my stepfather does and has done transmission work exclusively for years and he makes bank. Too bad he's in florida, I'd have to hit up the family discount.

 

The last thing I would want to do is over stress the tranny, any safe performance mods or would I be stuck because of the lame transmission?

 

Well, remember that boards like this are a place to figure out problems. Nobody is gonna write a post saying Hey, MY TRANNY WORKS OK...

 

I hear ya Jim. Thanks for chiming in and giving me some great info. I'll keep the 4 cyl in mind but wife may have other plans at this point.