Quote:
Originally Posted by HondaHound
I have a 1997 Civic CX hatchback. Love it. But, it doesn't get that great gas mileage. I live in Los Angeles and do about 80% "city" driving. I get around 25 mpg. This is before doing anything eco-wise though (I plan to do some mods).
Another problem with this model is the transmission. I had to have it replaced at only 95,000 miles, which seems ridiculous to me for such a "reliable" car. My Honda mechanic said it's very common to have to replace trannies in Honda's around this year. I totally trust my mechanic.
HHINLA
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Weight reduction will be far more beneficial in a city environment (stop-n-go), aero is generally better for higher speeds (freeways). Not to say that aero isn't beneficial for city driving, but I would think you would notice a larger difference with weight reduction.
I had heard the automatic transmissions, particularly the CVT featured on the HX, were problematic for the 96-00 Civic but you are the first definitive source I've heard it from. But one benefit of driving a Civic, especially of that era is that everyone had one so a junkyard tranny can probably found for pretty cheap- on the inverse transmission labor on a FWD car isn't cheap.