Q: im looking into getting an integra for my first car, for only about $4,000. im looking to get one that s pretty sporty looking and not under 1990. i know i dont have alot of room to work with, but what year, what model, what modifications, what mileage can i get from that much? also, just opinions on owning one. do u like ur integra, what are the problems u have etc.? i forgot to ask, is insurance really high on these cars because they are one of them most stolen cars? since im a teenage boy insurance is already gonna be high for me im just hoping it wont be too much because of this car. and im looking into getting a GS http://cleveland.craigslist.org/car/694533932.html is this a good deal?
A: For $4k, and since it's your first car, you're well suited for an RS, GS, SE or LS. They all have the same motor and power levels are roughly the same. However, the RS often has no A/C and no moon roof. The SE has alloy wheels and leather seats. Sometimes you'll find GSR for your price but by then they're probably in rough shape. You'll have to see how it fits you. What year you want will depend on your taste as '90~'93 are different from the '94 and up years. Likely they'll be over mileage but a well maintained Acura will go a long way. Assuming it is, expect about 25/31 miles per gallon. If not, could be a bit on the lower side, unless it's really bad, then you'll be down to the lower 20s. You wont have much for modifications after buying the car, or at least you shouldn't be worrying about modifications. You should be replacing many of the worn out parts (i.e. belts, brakes, fluids, plugs, etc...). After you have saved up a little and have done all the replacing you need, join dedicated forums like http://www.team-integra.net or http://honda-tech.com and look around for information. You'll get an idea from there. I have a '00 GSR and enjoy it very much. It wasn't my first car but I am glad it wasn't. I haven't had any major problems for the past three years of ownership; just the usual maintenance mentioned above. The sites will also help you out a lot if you use it. If you're not in a rush, save up a bit more and then you can get a decent car. Otherwise, you'll probably end up spending about $1k or more in repairs anyways. ...and I should mention that Integras are among the most stolen cars in the US. Just a heads up. ------------------------ Acura is a premium brand so insurance is going to be more than the average Honda. An older, mid '90s or lower, integra shouldn't be too bad. I'm 20 and pay about $100 a month for my 2000 GSR. ------------------------- That car isn't too bad of a deal; looks good enough. You will have to judge yourself when you drive it. If you have friends with an Integra or know of anyone with one; ask them to for a test drive. See if it drives like theirs or better... Pretty much, find a starting point of what you want to look for. But as a first car, I'd probably just get a car I can learn to maintain and such.