What's wrong with a Ford Escort Zx2? They have a DOHC 2.0 2.0L Mazda engine and tranny at 130hp, it had more balls than my 95 Civic EX did. parts for the ford were cheaper too.

Not trying to start a flame war here, don't get me wrong, I loved my Civic. It was cool and they both looked were styled pretty well. Although the Ford is lacking in build quality, it doesn't lack power. It had the perfect trade off of power and fuel economy. It got 30mpg in town with the 5-speed.

IMHO: the 2.0 Zetec is one of the best engines I've ever been behind. I didn't really get to experience my Honda's VTEC because it was auto.

Again, I'm not trying to start a flame war. I'm just wondering what you guys don't like about them.