Just kicking tires and trying to decide on a new car. The RSX is interresting, but according to the spec's it would seem the base model has the advantage torque and horsepower-wise over the type S until you hit about 5k rpm. I know the S has a few more features to it's credit, but is that alone worth the price difference? Most of my driving would be done as normal commuting with just the occasional spirited driving episode. I would appreciate any feedback from those who have experience with both models regarding their opinions and recomendations. Thanks in advance.

(Yes, I know what else is out there. This question is specificaly about the RSX.)

 

Personally, the only choice for me would be the Type-S. I haven't driven the base model but I hear it's a waste of gas for people who own them. They aren't quick or fun to drive at all. The S was a blast to drive when I borrowed my friends for only about 2 minutes! I enjoyed every second of it!

Put up the extra money and get the Type-S. You'll be glad you did!

Jason-

 

if performance isn't ur priority, i dont' htink the extra $3k is worth it. i heard the boSe speakers suck and who needs leather(too cold in winter, too hot in summer).

 

all or nothing man. dont buy something that you'll regret later.

 

what's the base model run 0-60? 1/4 mile?

I'd get the Type S if the cash isn't a problem. It's just a couple bucks x-tra/month so it's worth it.

I've read the Type S is a blast while the base model is kinda boring.

For those who've tested both, is the Integra LS more fun to drive than the base RSX?

 

Type S, if you ever want to go faster, you'll regret the other option.

 

Yup, I say the same thing. My friend bought a brand new Celica GT (AUTOMATIC ) What a loser, and now he regrets day and night of why he didn't get the GTS 6sp, which was about $2500 more.

But with the $2500 more, you get 40hp extra VVT-L, back discbreaks, LEATHER and other smaller things.


[Modified by mickey513, 7:17 PM 3/19/2002]

 

So, does anyone have the performance specs for the base RSX?(0-60, 1/4 mile, etc) All I can find is specs for the type-S. It seems they both require premium fuel and insurance is only $40/year difference. I'm not too crazy about leather, so I'm thinking the base model would be OK, although I might miss the 'kick' from the type-S. And why does the stopping distance suck so bad? Typical Honda, I guess. The Cellica GT and the WRX are also potential candidates, but I really want to stay in the Honda family. Found a really nice NSX though. Wife won't let me get it. Thanks for your input so far. Still shopping.

 

I own the Type S (didn't even consider the base model). I got to drive the base model a few weeks ago and it is a really nice car. Only problem is that when the base model starts to lose its breath, that's where the Type S really kicks it up. The torque on the base model doesn't really feel all that different from the Type S, no matter what others on the boards say - I didn't feel a difference. If you need the speed and the rush of high end VTEC, go with the Type S. If you don't like the leather seats, I'm SURE there are plenty of people out there that will pay you a nice price for the Type S seats (so you can buy some aftermarket recaros) or they'll swap you for cloth ones...
The braking on the car isn't great, unless you change the pads. The brake calipers/rotors are fantastic with good pads in them - the OEM pads are what suck.

 

RSX-S

 

RSX-S, I would never settle for second. But that's just me.

 

Integra Type-R

 

i have an idea, TEST DRIVE TEST DRIVE TEST DRIVE!!!! My god how can you base the decision on what other people say? My g/f has a base RSX 5 speed, its fun as **** to drive! Go test drive the freakin cars for yourself, there is no other way to decide.

 

I always get the top of the line for any car, when I am driving around in my car I don't want it to be the "cheaper" poor cousin of a nice car. I would definetly go for the 40hp, & the type-s badge. Maybe it's just me but I like to go for the good stuff.

 

Test drive both and ensure you get some decent time out in them. The base was what got me interested in the car period. I did end up with the typeS but if I wasn't interested in leather, didn't feel the need to experience the extra rpm's and horsepower at will and wanted to upgrade to a superior aftermareket sound system then the base might have been the way to go. The money saved would allow you to upgrade that sound system, get some better tires, different mags, take the wife out for dinner after getting those mods done and maybe still have some money left depending on what your tastes were.

 

Honeslty if you have to ask yourself that question then I dont think the RSX-S is for you. If you dont automatically jump on the idea of performance that is head and sholders above the base model then its not for you.

Ask yourself which would you regret more, wasting the extra money, or not going with the higher performance?

 

Thanks to all those who replied with usefull information. I like to gather as many opinions and impressions as I can before I actually test drive* (* Attention: The AntiRice) the car. This way I can pay particular attention to areas that I may be concerned about. Thanks again.

 

If performance is not what you concern and you only care about daily driving, RSX base is for you.
If performance is a concern and money is not a problem, RSX Type S.

 

Well in my opnion I would go with the type-S. Its fun to drive and the 6 gear is always fun. Plus 200 hp is alot better then 160 hp. But in all its up to you bro. Here is a pic of my rsx-s with skunk2 coilovers and championship white jdm rims. Maybe this will help you out a little bit. Well good luck.

 

S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S S

That is all.