Mitlov

I was wondering if people here could help me resolve a dilemma I'm having. I'm buying a new car next summer, and both of these cars were serious contenders. I've test-driven both, but there was about a month between the two test drives. I've also done numerous comparisons with stat sheets. I was looking for some first-hand experiences as well as some advice. Basically, the TSX is $3000-4000 more, and I'm trying to figure out if that's worth it.

What I don't care about are the leather seats, the xenon headlamps, or the power memory seats. They're cool if they're around, but I don't miss them at all if they're absent.

What I do care about is practicality and sportiness. I know that the TSX is ~40 hp more powerful, and that the Accord is about 20% more fuel efficient. I know that the Accord is two inches wider and eight inches longer, but actually a teeny bit lighter. What I wasn't able to figure out from my test drive or from stat sheets, though, are whether there are significant differences in handling prowess, and if so, why. Do they have equal quality suspension components and the like? If not, is the Accord easily upgradeable? Is it easy to make a four-cylinder Accord handle as well or better than a stock TSX?

Any insight to this, or suggestions for other reasons to go with either the Accord EX four-cylinder or the TSX, are greatly appreciated.

jimstsx

When I got my TSX...about 3 months ago...I drove several cars. Two of those cars were Accords. One was a two door and one was a four door. They were great cars in their own right but neither hit the spot like the TSX.

I say buy the TSX. I mean, it is actually an Accord but in Acura clothing, so you have the best of both worlds and it solves the problem Accord or TSX.

BusyShifter

Welcome to the forum. I understand that you stressed that the practility and the sprotiness are the two criteria you are evaulating, and you don't care for the leather seats. I could not tell you much about how does the two cars compare on the road, since I did not test drive the accord. But I assume the TSX probably has a slight edge over the Accord on the sprotiness, yet, slightly less practical than the Accord, which only requires regular gasoline instead of premium.

In my opinion, the decision should be pretty easy - ask yourself do you want to pay for the leather seat. If you absolutely refuse to pay extra money for the leather, you probably should get the Accord. Otherwise, TSX is definitely a better buy, in my opinion.

greendestiny

Acura TSX ....2005 Car and Driver's 10 Best Sports Sedan.....'nuff said....

Honda Accord 2005 Car and Driver's 10 Best Family Sedan.... 'nuff said...

any questions??? Car and Driver's 10Best report can be read here: http://www.caranddriver.com/article....rticle_id=8915

honestly, I understand during test drives, we can't really push the vehicle to the limit..for risk of crashing the car and having to buy it...

I too, didn't even "push" the TSX to the limit during my test drive..it wasnt until when I took it home, that I found out that the TSX handles soooooo well for a 4 door sedan...it handles sooo much better than my 1996 Honda Civic coupe (which has a lower stance and center of gravity)....

that being said, I also found out it made Car and Driver's 10Best in "SPORTS SEDAN"...and I couldn't agree anyless...it is TRULY a SPORTS sedan...

Mitlov

I really appreciate all the responses. But let me try to clarify what I was asking. All of these posts are assuming that the TSX is a better handler than the four-cylinder Accord (both are obviously better than the V6 Accord, because the V6 is 200 lbs more nose-heavy). I'm wondering WHY the TSX is better than the i4 Accord EX, and if it's a lot better or a little better than the Accord, and if I could make up the difference if I got the Accord. Is it something simple like different shocks? Or is it many differences that run throughout the Accord's chassis, and thus cannot easily be improved to TSX level (or near-TSX level)?

Thanks again for any responses.

By the way, BusyShifter, to answer your question about leather--I'm totally neutral between cloth and perforated leather, and my girlfriend actually prefers the former because she's a vegetarian (but she'd be okay with leather if I got it). So the TSX's leather seats don't add any weight to its side of the decision-making scale.

jpswanberg

the accord is bigger inside and outside. fuel economy is close enough to be a wash (your actual mieage will depend more on your driving style than the car). you can make the acord handle better than stock, however, it will always be at a disadvantage to the tsx due to the size, weight distribution and different suspension pieces. go to a car show near you and sit in both to see which will suit you best. can't go wrong with either. jps

gpsiir

I had the same dilema. Several of those items you had on your list were important to me, but... two things I noted that were significantly better on the TSX, handling (in all but a few cases, the TSX is much better than the driver), and quietness. Why not try a same day test drive on both? That should help you make up your mind..... Better still, if you can arrange it, drive both cars on the same day, over the same stretch of road. That's what I did, and the difference was night and day for me. The Accord was sort of, "well, this is very nice" (and a smile came to my face). The TSX was sort of, "Wow, awesome machine" (and a grin came to my face). So, the question you have to answer is, do you want to smile, or do you want to grin. verses

BusyShifter

You made a good point about not caring for the leather seat. If it make you feel better, I believe the "leather" in TSX is actually synthetic, not from the actual cows. But I could be wrong. I think it is a common practice now that car manufactures using synthetic/man-made leather in luxury cars.

But how about other amenties that TSX has, such as the moon roof, CD changer, heated seat, the 17-inch wheels, or even the fog lights? Assume that you had your heart set on the accord 4-cylinder, would you consider adding any of these accessories as the options for the accord? These amenties could adds up very quickly to compensate the price difference between two cars.

The most popular and cost effective modification on TSX is the RSB (~$120), which almost all had done it claimes improve the handling during the turns significantly. Changing the stock tires is also another fast mod that improves the handling in TSX, but cost a bit more.

SilverUA5

Aren't they both K24 engines?

amadeus303

iTrader: (2)

I think the easiest way to look at it is through how Honda markets the 2 cars, and greendestiny alluded to it a little bit...

The Acura TSX is a sports sedan. If you're looking for sportiness, this will offer you tighter handling, a firmer ride, and sleeker styling. The focus of this car is on the driver, and is hence marketed more towards a somewhat younger demographic that has a need for 4 doors.

The USDM Honda Accord is a family sedan. If you're looking for practicality, this will offer you a softer ("cushier") ride, more trunk and cabin space, etc. The focus of this car is on the passenger(s), and is hence marketed more towards the family demographic.

Because you don't really care for any of the creature comforts that come with the TSX (leather, HIDs, etc.), you're trying to justify whether the extra handling is worth $3000-4000. To me, the difference is quite significant - and worth it too... although you should note that we're all biased on here! As a passenger in my friend's 4cyl sedan, I'll admit the ride is very comfortable... but he views cars as merely transportation, and not as something you derive enjoyment from. If you're a "driver", you'll want the TSX.

BusyShifter

Another piece of advice, price is always a factor in deciding which car to get, so you don't need to decided between the two now. When you are ready to buy, walk into car dealers and tell the sale representatives your dilemma. Let them try to convince you which car you want to get -- the easiest way the sales could do it is to reduce the price of the TSX.

HondaGuy347

No, the moon roof, cd changer, and heated seats are all standard on the $23k EX-L. I think the non-leather only loses the heated seats. 17" wheels are only TSX, Accord gets 16s. This could actually be an advantage, considering tire replacement costs.

I own an '04 TSX, and my Mom has an '04 Accord EX-L 4cyl. Driving wise, the TSX is tighter, and sportier. Also has a slightly harsher ride. 17s on the Accord might even this up a little, but it will still be a larger car. I also don't really like the interior styling of the Accord, but that is subjective. You will also lose some things in the Accord like the Steptronic (with the auto), and the gauges aren't nearly as nice, especially with a smaller tach on the side, instead of the spedo and tach big and next to each other. The HID lights on the TSX are a big benefit as well, and you get a better warranty (4/50k vs. 3/36k), and you get the Homelink. I also get my butt kissed at Acura dealers with things like loaners, which aren't available from Honda. On the flip side, the Accord takes regular gas, and the TSX needs the good stuff, but it isn't THAT big of a premium. Accord also has the cool integrated key, vs. TSX key and fob.

Bottom line, if you are a car guy, the extra few grand is probably worth it to you for the TSX. It's sportier, nicer inside, and is just more special, since you don't see nearly as many around. The Honda is a nice car, but it's just that, a NICE car, kind of vanilla, and not nearly as special.

YMMV

BusyShifter

Wow, did not know Accord is going to come with all of the goodies. But this is what I am saying, if one would consider buying a $23k Accord EX-L, he or she is definetly better off buying the $25k TSX instead.

People have already posted on the forum about getting deal of couple hundred dollars over the invoice price on the 2006 TSX. And the 2006 TSX is still months away from arriving U.S..

Count Blah

Mitlov,
Would you want an automatic or a manual?

Also, I don't like how the 2005 Accord sedan looks, but the new tail end for 2006 helps that a lot. It looks a bit like the new RL, imo.

Howard911s

if u dont care about xenon. leather and all those.... and want to save money, why not get accord V6? you get what u want, cheaper price and 40 more horse than TSX

Chompin

Hey All.........I went by the Honda dealer to pick up a brochure for the new Accord and they just happened to have a V6 sedan 6sp. in the color I like sitting on the lot. Even though i did not have my license with me because I was out bike riding the dude still let me take it for a good spin. I will say that I'm a little older than most of you guys in here. Anyway......the car was sweet and we all know how great the 6 speed is. They do put 215/50's on the 6 sp. but I still need to drive a TSX before I make a final decision. From what I've read the Accord leans more to a pleasurable ride then good brisk handling like the TSX. I currently drive an 02 RSX-S and I just fell in love with the quiet inside the car.

Howard911s

GPS or no? leather? whats the sticker? look sweet man... if u want comfort and quietness. definite go with the accord. TSX is great handling car, im sure it beat that accord... but TSX is a noisy car... not quiet at all...
You know what? after i bought my tsx. 5 AT none nav..I met this guy, he got an 04, at the time wheni bought my car. 04 accord V6, brand new. Leather, Heat seat, GPS, sunroof. everything,, brand new out of door still 1000 cheaper my TSX out of door. had i known that deal, i would probably have chosen the accord at the time....

West6MT

I have been watching this thread,.........everyone is making good points. One thing that I think should be pointed out,.........interest rates. If you do decide on a TSX,...you might be getting a better rate depending on when you are buying the car,....so the money you are shelling out on the car would be a little closer to the Accord.

When I bought my TSX a few weeks ago,........the promotion rate was 2.9% on the TSX vs the accord at 3.2 or 3.4 (in Canada). Small difference but it does help getting a lower rate. I ended up getting my TSX at 1.4%,..which is still better than anything I would have got on the Accord if they offer the same lease thing I chose through Honda Finance Canada.

Jason

My advice would be to buy a TSX and get a new girlfriend. With the hot car you shouldn't have any trouble meeting new women. Seriously though, you should definitely buy the TSX. In addition to all the little extras that have been previously mentioned (and some not), you have an opportunity to get a much more exclusive car. The TSX is just a lot cooler than an Accord.

GIBSON6594

Why get an accord then upgrade it to handle like a TSX when you can just get the TSX? Because you can't justify the money?

Nobody hear can justify the money, we buy our cars because they are important to us. My guess is that if you are on a car enthusiast website, they are important to you too

Happiness>money

27_

From a safety standpoint I think you should care about the xenon/projector headlights, (and I mean that politely). My last cat was a 2000 Civic and the difference in lighting (city and especially highway) is night and day! I could never go back to a reflector style headlight again (for my personal vehicle). Driving my sisters 2000 Accord or a rental, it's as though I don't have the headlights on at night. Personally, I'd pay a couple of grand just for the headlights (from a safety standpoint).

dampfnudel

I went to one Acura dealer in NJ, and the guy wanted $28,995 for a 2006 TSX with Navi. It sounds too high to me so I plan to go lower. My question is how low should I go ? Has the invoice price been posted.

bz268

I traded in my 2001 Accord VP with a 2004 TSX when the TSX first came out in 2003.

The ride in the TSX is stiff! I am bouncing up and down in my seat all the time in the freeway. The TSX have a set of wider tires. So, speeding throught a curve is not a problem with the TSX.

My 2001 VP had a set of 15 inch tires. The tail always slided around in curve. On the other hand, the car was not stiff but it was not soft either. It had the "usual" honda feel.

The only thing I like about my Accord was the size. I could fit 5 people nicely in my car and could put as much as 2 more people in the trunk.

On the other hand, the TSX is small. Can't put squash in my TSX. Not even my bike.

Mod Edit: Comments were a little inappropriate. Fixed. --Clutch

Mitlov

Thanks once again for all the responses. This has given me a lot of food for thought. Let me try to answer things one by one:

Count Blah, I'm looking for a manual. I'm a die-hard stick fan.

jpswanberg, the fuel mileage is not actually close enough to be a wash. The four-cylinder Accord makes 26mpg city, 34mpg highway (regular gas). The TSX makes 21mpg city, 30mpg highway (premium gas). The V6 Accord is the model that gets TSX-like fuel mileage.

BusyShifter, that's a GREAT idea if I go with the TSX. I'm sure that saying "I'm also looking at a four-cylinder Accord" will help push the Acura dealer a bit lower.

Howard911, I haven't had a chance to test-drive the Accord V6 yet. With a manual transmission, you have to get leather seats (and a really tacky fake-carbon-fiber interior). And I'm assuming that it doesn't handle as well as the inline-four Accord because it's 200lbs more nose-heavy. But I'm going to give it a shot in person before I buy.

Gibson6594, why am I looking at upgrading the handling of the i4 Accord when I could just get a TSX? Well, a $3000 difference in sticker price and 20% lower gas costs for city driving is nothing to sneeze at. And my girlfriend and I are adopting a dog (a big one), so a roomy back seat is a plus. *IF* I could make the Accord handle nearly as well as the TSX, it would be a better car for me. But I want to make sure I don't get stuck with something boring like the Camry my mother used to drive.

27_, I know xenons are supposed to be better at night, but if I get the Accord I'm getting fog lights installed. So that should help a lot.

----------------------------

Anyway, I'm not likely to decide this question for a while yet. I like the sportiness of the TSX, but I'm also going to have to spend a lot of time in rush hour traffic, so maybe the coddling nature of the Accord would also be nice. That's something I need to toss back and forth in my head for a while. And if I end up moving to Bend, OR instead of Portland, OR next year (I'm applying for jobs in both places), I'm definitely getting the Accord because there's no Acura dealer in Bend.

But I really appreciate all of the thoughtful responses. It's given me a lot of food for thought.

SilverUA5

[QUOTE=bz268]

The only thing I like about my Accord was the size. I could fit 5 Mexican nicely in my car and could put as much as 2 more Mexican in the trunk.

QUOTE]


Wow, not sure if some of the members here would appreciate that comment.

HondaGuy347

One point, don't base anything on that 21/30 mpg for the TSX. I didn't catch whether you were looking at the 6M or the 5AT, but on my 5AT I have NEVER dipped below 23 city, and on the highway I generally get around 33, at 80mph, windows usually down. So you could probably hit 36 at 70 with the windows up.

And I'm a 23 y/o male, so while I don't drive very aggressively, I don't sit around either. My redline is not a stranger.

Powered by Honda

I hear the new accord 06 will have a power increase....so its not 160 anymore. Maybe 165 170?

Edit: I just checked Honda.com The new 2006 accord has 166hp SAE.

LeMasseHammer

My girlfriend bought an '03 Accord coupe EX 4-cyl with 5-speed manual transmission right before I got my '04 6MT TSX. On a day-to-day basis, I drive her Accord nearly as much as my TSX, so maybe I can offer some good food for thought.

When I set out to replace my '02 Camry, my first test drive was the Accord sedan EX 4-cyl 5MT. Like many have already mentioned, it was very nice, and would have been an easy choice if I didn't quite have the cash for the TSX.

Going in, I didn't care much about leather, moonroof, heated seats, xenons, power seats. Some of these have grown on me (xenons, heated seats), but others I would sell back to Acura if I could (moonroof, leather, power driver's seat).

The TSX shifter is much nicer (looks, feel) than the Accord's. However, the Accord has better "bite" when upshifting (especially from 1st to 2nd), presumably because of the TSX's drive-by-wire. When in the Accord, I miss the close ratio gearing of the TSX.

Steering in the TSX is more communicative. The Accord's has too much power assist, and it's a little dull.

TSX does have more engine/exhaust noise, which I didn't care for at first, but at the same time it sounds nicer and seems smoother at high RPM than the Accord.

I don't like the Accord's brake feel -- too touchy. Every time I hop in the Accord, I end up jerking forward on the first stop 'cause it's so sensitive. Some might like that better, but not me. Maybe this has changed for the '05/'06 models.

The Accord dash is nice, but it's divided up into separate pieces and has slits for the airbag etc. The TSX has one of the nicest looking gauge clusters and seamless dashboards I've seen.

I appreciated the side curtain airbags of the TSX, which didn't come with the '03 Accord.

The Accord's extra cupholders in the door seem to come in handy, and I miss them when in my TSX.

The TSX's "not an ashtray" bin is actually semi-useful for change or smaller trash items like gum wrappers. The Accord has a bigger CD-storage bin, but that makes the "not an ashtray" bin smaller, so there's nowhere at all to put even the smallest bits of trash.

Accord ambience lighting is orange, which I find less attractive than the bluish lights in the TSX.

A lot of guys complain about the stock tires on the TSX (yes, they're not that sporty and I'm really excited to replace them in the coming year), but the stockers on the Accord 4-cyl are SAD -- I don't think I could have put up with them very long.

Accord (at least the coupe) has sunshade visor extenders, and my TSX doesn't -- that bugs me.

I'm not all that rich, and I'm relatively practical/conservative about finances, but I've never regretted paying the premium to get the TSX. If you really appreciate the whole driving experience (and it sounds like you do if you're looking at the MT), then TSX is for you.

Hope this helps -- can't go wrong either way.

03CoupeV6

As the owner of an 05 Accord EX-V6 coupe, and having had TSX loaners for a period of one month, as well as doing some research of my own - there's a whole lotta bias in this thread, but of course that's to be expected in this forum. The TSX is a great car, but he's already said he didn't care about leather, HID, etc.

Invoice prices are (as of 2005 models, not expecting increase to be substantial)

TSX 6M: $24,784

Accord EX I4 5M: $19,980

You can walk in any day and buy a new Accord EX I4 with cloth seats for $21,000, if not less. Don't count on doing much, if any better, than $25,500 on the TSX. For $4500, you get options you don't care for. To me, this makes little sense.

Now, let's compare weight:

Accord EX I4 5M: 3142lbs

TSX 6M: 3230lbs

Fuel Economy:

Accord EX I4 5M: 26/34 on regular

TSX 6M: 21/30 on premium

Turning Radius:

Accord EX I4 5M: 36.1ft

TSX 6M: 40ft

Despite what the TSX feels like, the Accord is more nimble. It is lighter and has a tighter turning radius. And from my TSX loaners and my Accord, I can feel no difference in steering. The steering feel is exactly the same to me.

There is exactly 6.2 inches difference in length between the cars. Consider the average length of you know whats for you guys out there, and you can see how this is hardly significant. The posts of the Accord being huge and boatish are just not true. It's slightly larger (yet lighter). Yes, the TSX looks better, but $4500 is a lot to pay for a slightly trimmer design.

The Accord for 06 will have 166hp to the TSX's 205... but using current specs, there is only a difference of 5lb-ft of torque at each engine's peak of 4500rpm. This is easily negated by the nearly 100lbs the TSX carries on the Accord, and acceleration numbers prove that there's little difference between the two. Sure, into the triple digits, the TSX's 39hp advantage may make some difference - but this is a family car, right?

In summation:

You get 99.9% of the performance, 125% of the fuel economy at 85% of the fuel cost, for 80% of the price when you choose the Accord EX I4 sedan.

If I were in your shoes where practicality and frugality were my goals, as well as having a rock solid reliable family car, this would be a no brainer.

And, for the record, all new Accords have front, front side, and side curtain airbags along with ABS standard.

SilverUA5

Don't forget the "all-in-one" key.

McNuts

i have an 04 tsx w/navi and i love it. i know you said that you dont need all the cool amenities that the tsx has, but once you have them they are hard to forget. sure the accord is bigger, but the tsx is more nimble. if you have young kids, im sure they would barely notice the difference in leg space. but while they (the kids) are comfortably sleeping in the back seat of the car, are you going to have fun driving your car. i suggest getting the tsx, afterall this is a tsx forum, and most of your answers are going to be biased. to me, it comes down not wanting to say, "man i should have got that tsx instead of the accord."

last thing you have to consider is the difference is insurance rates. im not sure how big the difference will be. personally im paying 155 a month thru geico. im 26 no accidents no moving violations in the past 4 years, and living in chicago. am i getting raped?

afici0nad0

just get the accord. given your list of amenities, you don't need the tsx.

if suspension were to be an issue for you in the future, i don't think it would be too difficult to find some aftermarket parts for the accord...

still, how bad do you "want" the tsx? doesn't sound like you really want it that bad...

Mitlov

Here's my subjective feelings about the cars (which I haven't discussed yet).
* Interior aesthetics, I think the TSX is beyond awesome, whereas the Accord is pretty cool.
* Outside aesthetics, I think they're a tie. I like how the bodywork looks like it's been "pulled tight" on the TSX. But I like the more horizontal lines of the Accord over the downward-sloping lines of the TSX.
* The TSX utterly wins for exhaust note. Man I love that thing's exhaust note.
* I like the high-end rush of the TSX's engine. On the other hand, I like how the Accord gives me more reason to work the shifter.

Overall, this means that I like both. Maybe slight advantage to TSX. But it's not like the angel on one shoulder is saying "Accord" and the devil on the other is saying "TSX." If it were that clear, I'd go TSX

Mitlov

You know, I've thought about this a lot more tonight, and despite all the urging to the contrary, I think I'm going to have to go with the Accord. However, despite the fact that I'm disagreeing with the concensus here, the input from everyone has been INCREDIBLY helpful. Seriously.

Here's my reasoning:

Most people here seem to agree that the Accord i4 is "good" at enthusiastic driving, and "excellent" at sedate driving. Most people here seem to agree that the TSX is "excellent" at enthusiastic driving, and "good" at sedate driving. In other words, the Acura has slightly sharper handling, but slightly less bump absorption.

80% of more of my total time driving will be spent in sedate stuff (largely commuting to and from work in traffic). 20% or less of my total time driving will be spent driving like an enthusiast. On the other hand, I do love driving, so the latter part should weigh more in the equation.

The TSX has a lot more amenities, but the Accord EX has all the ones I really care about. It has a 6-CD changer, six airbags, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob (accessories), and a moonroof. With the metal trim kit (accessory), the interior is nearly as nice as the TSX (assuming you don't want leather seats).

If it were just down to this, it would be a coin's flip between the TSX and the Accord i4 for me. HOWEVER, configured as I would like, the Accord costs nearly $5000 less (according to MSRP), and would save me nearly 20% in fuel costs. At this point in my life, I just can't ignore an economic advantage that big when the rest of the factors I'm considering rate the cars nearly equally.

03CoupeV6

You will be happy with your choice. It's not that you wouldn't have been happy with the TSX, you would have, but $5000 is a big premium to pay for a car that is less economical, barely more powerful, and loaded with features you've made clear you didn't want.

They would both serve you well, but I have a fondess for four-cylinder Accords. I've had 5 of them, and never a single issue with any of them. Not ONE, in some half a million miles combined driving. It wasn't until I bought the V6 version that I started experiencing quirks in Accords, and it wasn't until I bought a TL that I realized Honda does indeed sometimes screw up - bad.

The Accords interior will be less luxurious with cloth, but the seats will likely be softer and more comfortable (to me, anyway). Accords with four-cylinders are not boats - they handle well (improved with more aggressive tires), have intuitive steering, and the manual transmissions in both TSX and Accord are world class. It may not entertain you quite as much as the TSX, but it will also not be impacting your wallet as much.

Enjoy the Accord. Take care of it and it will take great care of you - mine always have.


BTW: Offer them $20,500 + accessories + TTL and go from there.

Jason

Crack for sale! 99.9% of the performance? You're crazy. The Accord doesn't handle as well, go as fast, feel as sporty, look as sporty, brake as well, or shift as smoothly. It doesn't have the high-end suspension bits, the under-car aerodynamics, or the precision of a Japanese-made car. It looks like the family car that it is and shares the road with millions of other Accords. Where is the performance equal?

Also, after reading the last few posts of this thread, it occurred to me that nobody compares the 4-cyl. Accord with the TSX, usually just the V6. So if you want a 4-cyl. and you really have to think about it this much, you should just buy the Accord because you would know right away if you want to step up to the TSX. Plus, this way you have extra money to save up and buy your girlfriend a fur coat.

EDIT: Also, it's about 90% of the fuel price, not 80%.

03CoupeV6

The Accord's handling isn't quite as polished, but it is more nimble (note the turning radus), braking distances are virtually identical as are acceleration numbers, and the Accords have every bit the same precise construction - to think that cars from Japan are better constructed than Japanese cars built here is only a bias, there is absolutely no truth in it. And for what it's worth, the TSX is also a family car, and since it is the Accord to other parts of the world I'd be willing to bet that a lot of suspension components are shared.

And fuel economy is very different. 26/34 on regular for the Accord compared to 21/30 on premium for the TSX. You'll be paying $3-4 more per fill-up, and filling up more often in the TSX. It's more like 80%.

EDIT: I understand you love your car, and rightly so - the TSX is a fine car... but lest we forget it's nothing more than a four-cylinder Accord itself.

Jason

Since you first made the claim, I'd like you to find the acceleration and braking numbers on a 4-cyl. Accord. I just don't think it's that close. This whole argument is somewhat ludicrous really, as there is no comparison between a TSX and 4-cyl. Accord. The TSX IS an Accord (JDM), but much much different than the one we know in this country. There is little shared between the two.

Mitlov

If I may. I disagree with the 99.9% figure, but from my two test-drives I think that a figure of maybe 90% is appropriate.

True, people have said it's not as agile. But the Accord is still very agile. I couldn't detect a difference at 7/10s driving. From what people have said, it's only really obvious at about 9/10s driving. The i4 Accord is certainly no Camry. Perhaps you've driven the V6 Accord, which is 200 lbs more nose-heavy?

It makes more power, but ONLY at the very upper end of the rev range. There is less than 4% difference in torque between the two engines. Passing power, immediate throttle response, and ability to go up hills with AC on should be equal between the two. On the other hand, the TSX will be faster when you're really wringing it out.

I don't see how this is different than the first two points.

This is unrelated to performance. It's just aesthetics, and is entirely subjective.

I didn't observe this on my test drive. I'd be interested to see some braking distances between the two cars.

I'm not sure I'd agree. The Accord's transmission felt as smooth to me as the Acura's. Are you referring to the narrower ratios? The Accord's didn't strike me as too wide.

I'd be particularly interested to know the precise differences in suspensions between these two cars. I've asked this a couple times, and no one responded.

I question how much affect this has on daily driving, even spirited daily driving.

I'm sorry, but this is pure bias.

Both are family cars, really. Two inches width and six inches length do not make that big of a difference. They're both roomy, economical four-door sedans. Both are perfectly capable of carrying a family for regular routines. Besides, aesthetics or nametags for classifications have nothing to do with performance, which is what we're arguing about..

Exclusivity has absolutely nothing to do with performance. Honestly, I don't care a whit about exclusivity, but even if I did, it is simply irrelevant in a discussion of performance.

Only if they're comparing two equally-priced cars. That's one type of car comparison. Another is to have a list criteria that you want in a car, and compare all the cars that fit. It's this latter category of comparison that allows people to compare the TSX to the 325i, despite a nearly $10,000 price difference. It's this latter category of comparison that I'm currently engaged in.

Really? Are you saying that the only real appeal of the TSX over the four-cylinder Accord is emotive response and gut reaction, instead of reasoned comparison? I'm sure you can't mean that.

That's a great way to ensure that I'd be sleeping in my new car for the next year

No, it's not. The i4 Accord 5MT makes 26mpg city; the TSX 6MT makes 21mpg city. That's a 24% advantage for the Accord on fuel economy. The i4 Accord 5MT makes 34mpg highway; the TSX 6MT makes 30mpg highway. That's a 13% difference. Let's split the difference and call it an 18.5% difference in fuel economy. BUT REMEMBER the Accord takes regular, not premium. So the 20% figure is perfectly reasonable. It could even be higher if you do a lot of city driving.

03CoupeV6

Edmunds:

Accord I4 5MT Sedan:

0-60: 8.0 seconds
1/4: 16@89mph
60-0: 130ft

Edmunds:

TSX 6MT:

0-60: 8.3 seconds
1/4 mile: 16.3@86
60-0: 127.87ft