Around here in Vancouver I can only find them for 4k around 125k miles with no accidents, only downfall is no leather. Pictures look like the rear trunk hinge is a bit rusty though, is this normal for 1st gens?? Question is, is this thing even worth 4k? Will I be happy with driving it everyday?

 

Recently purchased a 1998 cr-v 5 spd. with 140,000 KM's (86,000 miles) for $4500

BC cars are usually pretty rust free, so if you're seeing any major rust I'd keep looking.

 

Thinking of just getting a 2nd gen CRV for 1-2 thousand dollars more. Just cant get over paying 4k for a 1999 CRV that doesn't come with leather.

Anyone have owned both 1st and 2nd gens? 2nd gens AWD system should be much better? Probably drives much better too?

 

I would say that the best AWD system comes on the first gen, but yeah, if leather interior is a deal breaker then get a gen2.

 

The Special Edition 1st gen CRVs had leather, along with the body-painted bumpers.

There are plenty of them out there, in general.
I haven't noticed rear trunk hinge rust as being common, myself.
The typical rear wheel arch / quarter panel rust is probably most common. Mine first started rusting at the bottom of the rear doors.

 

You can get leather integra seats and put them in. Pick a part in Chilliwack has several V's on the lot for parts. I looked for ages in Van to find a manual AWD V they are like a ******* unicorn, at least affordable ones. If you plan on tinkering AT ALL I would stay with the first Gen.

Berz out.

 

I agree, when I found one with AWD, that was 5 speed and had under 150,000 kms with full service history I pretty much **** myself.