[fastdrvr]

I had a bit of a rare car in 2005. A new Accord LX sedan with a 5 speed manual. For the time, even though I'd intended for it to be my boring commuter, it was a really fun car. It averaged around 33 mpg on the highway at 80 or more mph on my 1hr commute.

 

[zroger73]

I had a bit of a rare car in 2005. A new Accord LX sedan with a 5 speed manual. For the time, even though I'd intended for it to be my boring commuter, it was a really fun car. It averaged around 33 mpg on the highway at 80 or more mph on my 1hr commute.

Even though you can still get a manual transmission in half of the current Accord trim levels (LX, Sport, and EX), I can't say I've ever actually seen one in person. There are none available within 100 miles of me, although there is one black Sport in the DFW area. I love driving a manual, but hate living with one.

 

[IanRTL]

There's absolutely no reason to choose an I4 Accord over a V6 Accord...unless:

1. Your feel better about having an engine with a timing chain instead of a timing belt.

2. There are two fewer spark plugs to buy at maintenance time.

3. That 1 MPG advantage of the I4 is significant to you.

4. You want to save the $2,075 premium the V6 will cost you over the I4. The larger engine is the only additional feature included in that price.

5. According to industry experts, the lighter I4 actually handles better with a weight distribution of 60/40 CVT (59/41 6MT) than the heavier V6 with a weight distribution of 62/38.

1. That is certainly a good point. The belt service is something to consider if you're planning to keep the car long-term. Even then, one still has plenty of time to save up for and anticipate the necessary service.

2. Yes. I'd also add that there are fewer moving parts inside the engine. However, a V6 engine is more naturally balanced in its rotation than an I4. For about $20 extra in spark plugs, I'll take the V6.

3. I would hope that one mpg wouldn't be a deal breaker, but every mile counts to some people.

4. $2000 more is a lot to spend on only a different engine and transmission. For me, the extra power, smoothness and actual shift feel of a 6-speed auto are worth it. Plus, if you're spending $30k+ on a new vehicle, the payment is marginally higher with $2000 more tacked on.

5. I have also read where "experts" say the 4 cyl handles better. A 2% weight bias difference doesn't seem to be something that could be felt. I assume the 4cyl is slightly lighter in curb weight, so that would certainly aid in that feeling. However, my parents' 2015 and my wife's 2005 V6 sedans handle like they're on rails. I've pushed the wife's Accord a few times just for fun and it handled it (pun intended) like nobody's business. Nonetheless, the differences are marginal at best. Some will prefer the 4cyl and some will want the V6. To me, the V6 just seems more refined.

 

[zroger73]

I'm still having a tough time accepting 4-cylinder engines going into cars like the full-size Impala, the $50K+ BMW 528i, and even the flagship $60K+ Cadillac CT6. Just seems like blaspheme!

 

[speedlever]

I love driving a manual, but hate living with one.

Preach it brother! So true!

The only solution is to have two identical vehicles, one with a manual and one with an auto.