New Or Used?: Any Import But Toyota Edition

TTAC Commentator Toyondai92 writes:

Mr Mehta and Lang, I’m writing in for my non-tech savvy parents who are starting to look for a “new” car. I say new with quotes because only one of the choices is actually a brand new car. Background wise it’s simple, my parents are in their 50s and I am 17, both of my parents work, typical stuff etc. We have three cars, a 2000 Hyundai Elantra Wagon, which despite my mother driving it like an Integra- yes it’s a five speed- has been bulletproof to us, a 1989 GMC pickup and a 1999 Chevy Metro whose auto trans is starting to clunk out. Thus, the need for another car. I should add that I, the 17 year old, will most likely NOT be driving said new car, as I have my eyes set on an 80s Acura Legend. This is an import-biased comparison, helped by the fact that GM and Chrysler don’t offer manual transmissions in their family sedans and you can’t say the F(ord) word near either of my parents. (Don’t tell me to try and break that grip, I already tried!) Toyota’s declining quality and recalls have scared them away from that brand, hence no Camrys or used Lexus in this list. The main choices we’ve been looking at are:

• Brand new Honda Accord, most likely the 4 cylinder EX model with a 5-speed manual. Only accessory added would be the bluetooth link for a cell phone, as my mother needs to use her phone a lot while driving. Honda’s website brings this in at about ~$25K.
• Brand new 2011 Hyundai Sonata when they come out later this year. Base model with the 6-speed manual and bluetooth thingy. I’d assume the price to be a little higher than the current Sonata, so let’s say ~$20K.

This is where it gets interesting.

• Used 2004-2006 Acura TL with a 6-speed manual, sans tech package. The local Acura and Honda dealers usually have at least two of these for anywhere from $20-$25K with 25-50K on the odometers. My mother likes this one because of the two extra cylinders over the Accord, Sonata and the next choice.
• Used 2004-2008 Acura TSX with a 6-speed manual, also sans tech package. Can usually be had for $18-$23K with 30-55K on the odometer at the same local dealers. My dad likes this option because of the TSX’s smaller size than the TL and the current Accord.

And the only outcast here:

• Used 2005-2008 Acura RL with the 5-speed automatic, no tech package. Despite not having the manual trans option, the interior and SH-AWD gets this a spot. Local Acura dealer always has a few of these in stock with 50-75K on them for a lower price than the Accord.

I left the German brands out of this due to brand preference. So basically we’re looking at one new Hyundai, one new Honda and three used Acuras. My parents don’t mind if they drive a Hyundai or an Acura. So, I now ask after typing WAY too much, what do you two gentlemen and the Best and Brightest have to add? Criticism is welcome for any of the choices, and being a frequent TTAC reader, I know there’s some headed my way.

Steve Lang Replies:

The most bang for the buck would come with a used RL. I would opt for one around the 40k range mileage wise and if you must have it, an extended warranty. Before you buy it, see if you can find out a bit how the prior owner maintained it and let an independent shop have a quick inspection. All the others are going to go for a stiff price premium in this anti-Toyota market. Also keep in mind that this is tax season and Honda / Acura / Hyundai dealers may not be in a bargaining mood.

Sajeev Mehta Replies:

And damn, those parental units are cool: I’ll never get either of mine into a car with a three-pedal affair under the dash! Not that my parents don’t rock (they do) but I love yours already. Which is why I recommend the nicest car they can afford, given the fleet of practical vehicles. But it’s gotta have a stick, the dullness and bulk of an AWD RL isn’t doing anything for me. The TL fits the bill: you avoid Honda’s notorious automatic transmission woes and enjoy a good blend of luxury craftsmanship inside and entertaining performance outside. (With a generous side order of torque steer, but six cylinders are still better than four.) Getting a used TL over a new, ugly Accord is a no brainer. Work that depreciation curve for all you can, because Acura is happy to oblige!