Hey whatsup guys.

Ok so I'm going to go straight to the point.
I have found a 1998 Civic Hatch CX (Base Model). And i have been looking for a hatch for quite a while. I have only seen the ad, but i am going to go there later this noon to check it out. It is a 5 Spd, with 198xxx miles on it. It looks like there is no rust, but some sort of paint falling off the front bumper?

So my main objective is to determine if it is a Smash? Or Pass?

Oh and get this, they are only asking for 2,990$.

So ontop of that, i was also wondering if you guys had any major tips on inspection while im there. Like, What are the key things i want to check out before purchasing it ?
Compression test,Coolant Resivior, underbody rust, tires, suspension, or anything else?

And if i do own this car, i do not plan on swapping it, or making it some crazy drag car. I am only 18, and i plan on making it a comfortable street car, with some power . But the power will have to wait until after or in between college.

And 1 more question about the motor.
How long does the d16 usually last? I myself do and always have done proper maintinence on my vehicles (Currently driving 93 accord). I am just concerned because im not swapping the motors for a while, and would like the d16 to last as long as possible.!
I know there are some cool and smart guys out here that could help me out and give me some big tips. Thanks guys and i really appreciate it!!

 

Next time post it in the "what is it worth" thread. Looks like a dealer, ask for a carfax. Do a compression test. Look for leaks etc.

You will not be able to make it fast without a swap.

 

No power to be had out of a CX. Don't care what you do. If you want something with a little spunk you're buying the wrong car.
How long does it/will it last? Depends on how it was/is maintained. So, sorry to say, the answer is, it'll last as long as it lasts. Perform or have the above tests performed to determine the health of the engine. If you don't know what to look for when buying a used CIvic, take someone with you that does.

 

First point, correct. Second point, incorrect.

The CX has a D16Y7 motor. By itself, yes, it is slow. You can fairly easily bolt a turbo to it and make 200, which will definitely make the car quicker. Running a small turbo with a good tune, I was out running newer (4.6L) GT Mustangs, and keeping up with not quite newer STIs.

All speed talk aside, the D16Y7 motor can (and will) go 500k+ miles with proper maintenance. I put 50k on mine with the turbo, and it was just as healthy as the day I bolted it on. In the 90s, Hondas were built as a "lifetime" car. Buy one as your first car, and you won't need to buy another one until you give it to your kid 10-20 years down the road. They're reliable and safe little *******.

You hit most of the major points to check in your OP, but you should also go over the engine bay with a rag and check for any leaks. Check around and under the dizzy for common O ring leaks, around the oil pan for common gasket leaks, and under the transmission for common main seal leaks. Also check the brake and clutch fluid for color (if it's black, you'll need to flush it), and the clutch hydraulic system for any leaks.

Also ask the PO when/if the clutch and timing belt have been replaced. They are both 150k replacement items.

The peeling paint on the bumper isn't very common unless the car was bumped. Check the Carfax for damage reports, and check the subframe to make sure it's straight. All you'll need is some thread, and basic geometry knowledge. A little tap to the bumper is no biggy. It's your first car - it isn't supposed to look pretty.

 

Doubtful that the OP will boost the car when he has already ruled out an even more basic swap. That's why I didn't mention it either.

 

Thanks guys, and sorry about the thread name. I do not plan on making he d16 a speed demon, just reliable for a long as I can.

The carfax is clean, no reported accedints.

I will bring all my tools that I have available, and thanks for helping out. I know it's not the best car to tune, but it's a car that I've wanted for a while. Thanks for the help.

 

Actually, it is (arguably) one of the best Civics to tune. Completely stripped down, basic, no frills or power anything. The lightest 96-00 chassis you can start with. The motor might not be the best, but the chassis definitely ranks up there pretty high as far as Hondas go.

 

The dealership was not open, but I drove over there with a buddy and checked it out. It was a VERY clean car, the Odo actually read 176xxx. The interior was amazing.

Oh and, what is the most mileage that you guys have seen on a d16 out of a 96-000 hatch ? Just curious because I'm not swapping for a while.

 

Your questions about whether to buy or not belong in the Value sticky, not the main forum that is designated for technical discussions only.

Repost the technical questions in your first post in a new thread.