A good friend of mine said that 96+ Accords have problems with the automatic transmission going out more often than the 5spd (granted, I am aware that clutch replacement is inevitable with a 5spd, but I'm talking about possibly needing a tranny overhaul)

I'm currently looking at purchasing a 96 Accord LX and there are two, one a 5spd, one an auto. They both have mileage within the 80-90k range and appear to be in good mechanical condition otherwise.

Any advice or tips would be helpful.

 

listen for once and for all..auto sux...(sorry protech and levelten)
grab the stick one, you be a happy camper with a 5speed.
you lossing about 30% of your stock rated(flywheel rated) HP with auto on the wheel..

 

I dont have a 5th gen, but there's some recall on them..I forgot what is it.
go run a search and you'll find it interesting.

 

You would probably be happier with the 5spd if you like sportier driving. If you're just getting from point A to point B, the auto is fine. Yes you do get a drivetrain loss through the auto which will be less available HP and lower fuel economy but it is not a 30% loss. The auto trannies aren't the best but they're not as bad as some may say. Either way most will recommend the 5spd.

 

Get the 5spd by all means. If it ever fails, you can find a used 5spd transmission for about $150...(but it won't fail).

A used automatic tranny I would not buy nor trust at any price. A rebuilt auto-tranny + install is about $1600. Plus...it might fail again...

With 90k, the auto tranny might be due for failure in 40-50k. They like to go bye-bye at around 130k (unless you were driving a 86-89 accord whose auto-trannies are practically indestructable with proper main.)


[Modified by RotaryBzzz, 9:50 AM 1/17/2003]

 

5-spd>auto


auto is good if you don't like to work to make your car move

 

well, i love my auto, but unless you want to put some money into it, then i say go with the 5-speed.

and if you look around you can find auto trannies for a good price.i found one from a 94 wagon, with only 1800, yes, you read that right, 1800, miles on it.for only $500. until i get done with my L10/Protech/TCI Automotive build. of course, if you pay someone to do it, then itll be more expensive. FYI, if any of you ever have the chance to swap the stock (auto) transmission with a wagon unit, do it. the difference in the gearing will surprise you.

 

5-speed tranny=6 votes ; Auto=you do the math

Go 5-speed. I have an '96 Accord with an auto tranny. Yeah, it drives fine, but it doesn't matter since I'll be swapping an H22A w/ a 5-speed.

 

AUTOMATICS FOE LIFE! ok that was a joke. I love my 5 speed accord. Go for the 5 speed. Although i really hate driving in heavy stop and go LA traffic. But still get the 5 speed. Yup, 5 speed.

 

thanks for the input, everyone. I go to the city tomorrow to do the final test drive and decision.