There can be no argument that finding the right car is often a matter of diligence, intelligence and sometimes even a little luck. With thousands and thousands of choices on the market, finding that one special car that perfectly complements the driver is something of a hardship, or at least it is for some. Others, of course, know that the right car for them has to meet a certain kind of profile, it must be reliable, sensible, and even a little fun. For drivers who are looking for something of that nature, then their may very well be no better match out their than the Honda Accord.
The Accord is one of Honda’s longest running model lines, and it is also one of the best selling. While it may not be as flashy as the Del Sol, or have quite the power of the Prelude, the Accord is simply a well balanced car. It only takes a quick look at the vehicle to realize that this is not a car made to appeal to any one person or group. In fact, the Accord seems to be one of those rare examples of a car that just fits, no matter who is driving it or for what purpose. However, the question really lies in what makes the car such an excellent fit for so many drivers. And, when trying to answer this question, perhaps the best place to start is on the outside.
Indeed, the 1996 Accord, whether it be the four door or two door model, comes in a very attractive package. While not being obnoxious, the car manages to look sporty, clean, and has somewhat of a professional look about it. While the Accord does undergo some major style changes for the 1998 and up model years, even the older 1996 design still looks current, and it never seems out of place in a parking lot or on the road. Indeed, the design of the Accord has changed a lot since it was first introduced, but many of the basic concepts have stayed the same, perhaps owing to the fact that nearly every model year comes in an attractive exterior package. While those who prefer there cars to look a little sportier may enjoy the two door coupe, the four door still manages to retain that classic import style, and it never looks stretched or out of proportion, something that few four door cars manage to get right.
The interior of the Accord is another area where the model line just shines. Although the exterior undergoes changes for each year, the interior largely remains unchanged, and this due primarily to the fact that the car is attractive inside and functional as well. The adjustable steering and power seats (even on the low end models) makes sure that the driver is comfortable and has a full view of the road no matter what size or height he or she may be. The instrument cluster is clear and easy to read, and the door open indicator even has spots for different doors, letting the driver know exactly which passenger is causing that beeping noise. The controls for heating and air conditioning are simple and direct, while the car may not have a lot of frills inside, the clean lines and stylish swoop of the dashboard are indeed very appealing. Whether the driver chooses to look for a model with cloth or leather seats, one can rest assured that both options provide ample comfort to the driver, and even the cloth still makes for an attractive interior package.
It has been mentioned previously that the Accord is a car designed to appeal to everyone, and in no dimension of the car is that more apparent than actually driving it. The acceleration is smooth, the steering tight and responsive, and the 2.2 liter VTEC engine is both very efficient on gas, and yet has the potential to move the car at a decent speed if the need arises. While consumers will definitely find some more pickup from having a manual transmission in the car, the automatic does just fine. Potential buyers can also rest assured that Honda automatic transmissions are generally of a higher quality than say those manufactured by Nissan or Toyota (car companies both notorious for automatic failures or problems). The interior of the car (whether it be two door or four) is comfortable, and passengers never feel squished or confined. Although the two door coupe may seem a little small after a long period of driving, it certainly has more room than either the Civic or Integra coupes. Of course, in the four door model, drivers will find an ample trunk with a lot of storage space, enough space to fit four or five passengers comfortably, and even enough leg and head room to satisfy drivers who may be on the tall side.
Even though the Accord has a lot of great features, that does not mean that it is flawless. And after a lot of driving, it does seem apparent that the car has a few minor flaws, although nothing bad enough to take away it’s universally desirable status. Mainly, while the 2.2 liter engine is quiet under normal driving circumstances, it begins to get a little noisy at higher speeds on the highway. The noise problem is far more apparent in the four gear automatic than in the five speed manual, fifth gear cutting the RPMs down about 700 or so at 65 MPH. Sadly, the Accord is also subject to other issues that seem to always spring up with Honda. Namely, axle trouble is likely going to become a problem when the car nears high mileage, and you can expect some rust on either the left or right quarter panel, directly behind the rear wheels.
Other than the minor issues though, some of which will become universal when looking at an older car, the Honda Accord is an excellent choice when it comes to buying a used car. A great first car for teen drivers, or a respectable vehicle for anyone making long commutes, the Accord is just a superb car, and has the potential to appeal to anyone. Oh, and remember that the Accord gets great gas mileage, a very important factor with the rising price of fuel. Indeed, Honda has always been known to make reliable, sensible cars, but still cars that have the potential for a little fun. Nowhere is this philosophy more apparent than in the Honda Accord, and the 1996 model is another perfect reflection of the line, a great and satisfying car in almost every way.
