My current daily driver is a 1991 Honda Civic hatch base with 70hp, 4 speed manual, and no AC. It’s stock except for 15” Integra blade wheels, Integra sport seats and an updated head unit with Bluetooth. These subtle changes and because it’s in really good condition make it an excellent and fun commuter. It’s also been completely reliable despite its age and 221k miles.

Thinking about getting a Fit to replace it to get a bit more power, AC, and more storage for hauling bikes and potentially the occasional overnight camp.

Drove a 2013 Fit base and 2008 Fit Sport today — both 5 speed manuals. Both cars had some cosmetic issues but were mechanically okay. I really preferred the 08 for its interior, exterior styling and most importantly it’s driving reflexes. Although I was surprised that the 13 felt noticeably quicker, at least in the first two gears, where I really flogged both cars.

I ruled this particular 13 Fit out, but haven’t ruled out second gems completely. I’ll probably pass on the 08 too. Carpet was severely worn on pass side front footwell and in the trunk. It’s also a leaker as evidenced by surface rust on the tools in the tire well, stains on the headliner and some slight moisture detected when I pulled what’s left of the passenger side carpet back.

I can get the 08 for $3500. It has 132k miles and is an otherwise rust free North Carolina and Colorado car. I will need to fix the leaks and purchase new tires in addition to addressing the carpet and/or covering it up with floor mats. It also has some scratches typical of an 11 year old car but paint is fine.


I’m probably going to pass on this one too, but wanted to run it by all of you before making the final call.

Also curious of anyone else went from an 88-91 Civic to a GD Fit and if you still think it was a good move.

Thanks for any advice or musings on any of this.

-John

 

Welcome to the forum.

I would pass pass on the 08 if there is evidence to suggest water is getting in. That’s one of those things that’s hard to fix. Also might be a sign of an accident as I don’t think the 08’s had leaking issues.

 

Pfft, I'd jump on the GD. Water leaks can be problematic but generally are caused by the seam sealer splitting under the roof moldings. Slide the roof molding back and look along its grove for cracks. Usually the rear seam breaks were it transitions to the hatch and the front near the windshield.

Check those areas out and verify if its been in a collision or not... Then make your choice if it seems worth while or not.

 

Well it sounds like you have a pretty good idea what you want. I also prefer the look of the GD. It also has less driver aids/ electronics, and is just a more simple car. also (generally) cheaper than the GEs

I looked at 3 different 07/08 cars before I bought my 08. every single one had water leaks... I don’t think it’s something you can avoid... Just make sure it’s not too rusty. The leaks are super easy to fix.

and I wouldn’t sweat the carpet either...I know it’s nice to have a nice, clean car but... just throw some mats down or spend like 200$ on a new carpet.

i paid 3250 for my 08 with 132k, but it needed some suspension work and small fixes.

If it really just needs tires, yeah - I’d probably hop on that deal.

 

Thanks, all, for the helpful replies.

The 08 GD Fit was hit in the front at some point. It seemed to be well repaired but I understand that can disturb the seams in the rest of the car.

Bummer that most of these are now leaking, but much of what I have seen doesn’t make stopping most of the leaks an impossible task like it can be with other vehicles.

I’ll probably pass on this particular car, but keep looking.

 

There are some GD's that don't leak. Ours is tight as can be still and every part of the car has held up remarkably well.

Considerably better in some ways that my good friends '09 GE and my Mom's '11 GE. The '09 has paint peeling issues and both have interior trim issues. Granted, neither have probably been as well cared for as our GD, but they aren't neglected either.

The few horsepower difference in the GE is noticeable though. Stock vs stock the GE is slightly faster. Trade off is that the GD, in stock form, handles considerably better and is more fun to drive.

If I were shopping used, I'd be looking for a perfect GD but probably end up with a GE. There's just very few nice GD's left.

Both are kind of typical cheap Honda though. They run well, but aren't built like tanks. Minor things can become major if ignored.

The opposite used car is a Crown Vic. You can ignore everything and keep driving them till the wheels fall off. I've owned a few of those and you can't kill them.

 

I have a feeling this is how my search will play out. However, time is on my side. My Civic is in great shape and I should probably just drive it through next winter anyway. Leaves plenty of time to find a great 07-08 Fit. And test drive more GEs in the meantime to see if I like them well enough to consider one.

 

This is exactly what happened. You can read about it here: https://www.fitfreak.net/forums/2nd-...ml#post1434334

 

If you live in a very rainy place, avoid the 08. I’m just now tackling my leak issues