Hi All,

I'm new to the forum. I've been reading a lot of the posts and I can't believe how better informed I am already! Good stuff.

So, on to my question... I test drove a left-over 2007 Type S 6MT yesterday. Wow, it was sweet. But, another local dealer has a 2005 with 50K mi (certified pre-owned) with navi and 6MT in the exact color I like. (non S of course)

I figure I can get the 05 for like $23K (We got to $25K over the phone - going in today).
I figure I can get the 07 for $35K (the dealer is at $36K right now)

Of course, financially speaking I would much prefer going for the 05. I have a really short commute and barely even put 10K mi/yr on my cars. So, I could easily own the used car for 10 years and still be at 150K mi - so the high mileage doesn't really bother me.

BUT, I am concerned about the base models' suspension. It is kind of soft compared to the Type S. I'm not too concerned about the less power, since with a 6MT I can get the power when I want it - not to mention 270hp with 230 torque is not bad! (I own a 94 Prelude right now which only has like 160hp)

So my question is: is it possible to get "close" (or better) to the suspension in the Type S with some aftermarket mods? If so, what should I expect it to cost me? I figure if I can get close to it for around $3k, I'm still WAY ahead of buying a new car. Also, if you could give me some ideas on what to actually have done, I would appreciate it. Thanks for any input!

 

yup softer. drive it first. the suspension on the 6mt 05 is stiffer because the auto and manual have diff springs. the type s has a stiffer ride all together i havent driven a type s only because when i do ill just trade my car and not even car about what ive done to it so far lol

 

If you are looking for an 07M Type-S, you should be able to get it for under $34K. Unless your car had some installed options, $36K sounds a bit high

 

Get the 07 TL Type S MT. My 2 cents....

 

If you get the 05 an Apsec suspension and a thicker RSB, will get you close to a Type S. But I'd get the Type S

 

Type S FTW

 

Go for the type-s & it will bring you more joy for the bang ...

 

Sure, you can get close. Maybe even better, depending on you definition of "better".

A-Spec suspension or

After Market Shocks/Springs or Coil-Overs; Sway Bar upgrades; Strut braces, etc.

Cost, I really don't know. I'll guess~$1,500 - $2,000 for parts and labor, but that's just a semi-uneducated guess.

 

It sounds like you are a buy-to-keeper. In which case, the 07 is a better option. Just a few notes that may impact your decision:

Absolutely DO NOT get the 05 TL without extended AcuraCare warranty.
Never downplay your initial hunch. Get the suspension feel you will be happy with.
Higher finance rate for used cars.

 

Couldn't have put it better if I tried.

Really, which one feels better to YOU?

 

was this really made a question? lol
baby i love my tl type s go for it!

 

 

YUP TYPE S I wouldnt even think of buying used

 

If you are going to get a car get something u will be happy with. And in this case you are gonna keep it 10 years i would defintly go with the type s.

 

My dad who drives a bmw 530 drove my type s and loved it. Thought the suspension and ride was great. There is not a single option available, the car has everything. This is going to make the car hold its value very well. I bought my 07 for 33,700 and know for a fact I couldve gotten down a little further 33,200 if I starting being picky. Dont let the dealerships know your only interested in the MT and work the price. You should be able to get one for under 34k has stated before and it also appears that this is going to be the fastest TL for at least 3 or 4 years.

 

Consider another car altogether.

I would have, based on all of the problems being reported on this site - despite the fact that the car is now in its FIFTH year of production, is a Honda and "should" therefore be one of the most reliable, trouble-free cars on the market.

 

Yeah, there are so many problems with Hondas, that they should just stop making them.

 

Thanks for all the feedback guys.

I guess I shouldn't be surprised most of you guys say go for the Type S. First, I'll respond to some of the comments.

Aristo and evanj5, thanks for the pricing info on the 07 Type S. I did forget to mention that this particular 07 car has the A-Spec body kit, carbon fiber steering wheel, and clear bra. So, I think the dealer is holding strong at $36K. I may look around for an 07 without all that crap though and try to get it under $34K.

Jupitersolo and Bearcat - thanks for the info on the suspension upgrades.

Pokin - I am definitely a buy-to-keeper. I am going to hit 10 years on my 94 Prelude in Dec 07. The only reason I am even thinking about getting a new car before my current one hits 10 years is because my wife and I had a baby 10 months ago and my car is just too small these days.

I test drove the 2005 yesterday and of course the 07 Type S just felt so much better. It was obviously much more sure-footed no matter what I did. I ended up walking out of the dealer though because they wouldn't come down on the price. I can't believe they listed a 2005 with 50 K miles for $27.5K. They were willing to go with $25K, but that is still just too high for a 3 year old car with 50K miles. So, I think I am on the search for an 07 Type S 6MT!

I am a bit disappointed about the cost though. I was kind of psyched about getting a used one and saving $10K (after upgrading the suspension), but like most of you guys said, I think I'll be happier with the 07 in the long run. Thanks again all!

 

What you meant was Aspec suspension + RSB > Type-S Suspension.

 

Dont get the body kit I think it looks horrible, especially the front lip.

:

 

u know im not a huge fan of the new lip they made for the type s either....but im really getting comfortable with it, its starting to grow on me.....hmmmmm i may just got ahead n get the front end

 

i got everything else even the exhaust i have sitting at my house. im just gonna wait for after the winter get both front n rear skirts and then front bumper n fogs. by the time spring rolls around it should be done. oh and I want that custom J pipe as well =)