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So here's the deal, I have a 2001 Em2, and my friends got a 98 Em1. He's wanting to trade for mine. Mines an automatic, 170k miles. His is a 5 speed, 115k miles. Both are generally the same condition, few dings and scratches but that's to be expected. His has a cold air intake, and a vtec engine (which of course one doesnt... Yeah sucks) Both of them are basically bone stock.
So as far as I can tell, here's the pros and cons.

Pros:
VTEC
5 speed
Fewer miles
Sunroof
Cold air intake
It's black who doesn't like black.

Cons:
I'd have to part with my baby
It's downgrading as far as the year goes, his is 3 years older. Really makes a big difference to me actually... Idk

I'll let you guys throw in your opinions. What do you think? Any opinions would be greatly appreciated. I'm really stuck on what i should do here.

 
Rep Power: 511

Can't be a '98 em1. That chassis code applies only to the 99-00 Si.

Now, if it's actually a 99 Si, I'd do it. If it's a 98 ex, I'd personally stick with the em2, just because I'm much more familiar with the d17 than the d16. Then again, I'd take the manual over the auto.

 
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It's just a 98ex, sorry bout that

His does have si tail lights though.

 
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Your can buy a 2000$ ex with the roof and five speed with around 100k for $3000 or less relatively good condition. Just putting that out there. I like my 2000 ex a bunch I honestly think it's better looking than the gen 7s. At least from outside never sat in never drove the gen seven. Also all 99 and 2000 have an updated front grill, hood, fenders, trunk, head lights and tail lights. I think they are the same tho ex to si. I believe the appearance difference is wheels and lower body moldings leather steering wheel. The ex your friend has doesn't have the same vetch the si has unless he did a swap. The si has dual overhead cams the ex is single overhead cam. An si seams to sell for 5500$ to $7500 around me with 100 to 150k on the clock.

I'm a newb had my car for a month so everyone please correct my errors but I tried to give the best info I could.

I don't think I would trade even up yours for his ex. I would sell and buy either your year with a five speed or sell to buy a true si. I don't see a real upside to u trading into a 4 year older car with 45k less on the odo. I think you can do better IMHO.

 
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Anybody else? I was hoping to get at least a few different opinions and ideas?

 
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I would want a manual trans, but I do like the 7th gen because it is the less popular gen. I would sell yours and buy a manual trans 7th gen.

I am biased though, since I have a 7th gen. The older civic are definitely easier for modding and available parts but thats because everyone has one!

 
Rep Power: 204

6th gen eats 7th gens for breakfast.

I'd say there is a value difference there for sure...since it's not actually a 99-00 si. It'll be a D16Y8 probably. Single overhead cam Vtec probably the lowliest of the Vtec engines. On the other hand 6th gens probably have the highest approval ratings of all the Civics. Even my 15 year old 99 DX (D16y7) is still running on it's original clutch and headgasket. It's get 40mpg highway still it doesn't burn oil at all, it hasn't required anything more than basic maintenance for the 3+ years I've owned mine. It has a double wishbone suspension which OMG is super fun. I live in the mountains and absolutely embarrass tailgaters going into the twistys and it makes me smile every time. I would take standard over auto as well.

So if the value difference isn't important to you and the fact it's not an 99-00si then I'd say do it.

 
Rep Power: 243

Maybe a snack, but not breakfast

The 6th gens are more reliable overall and you are more likely to get a good one. That being said I am on original clutch, and head gasket was only replaced because head was removed not because it was bad (I'm at 178K). Gas mileage is better with the 6th gens, so if that is important then it might be worth it.