My mom doesn't know a huge amount about engines but enough to know not to get me something "encouraging to go fast" because our family friend's son died on christmas eve about 3 years ago because he was speeding. I just want to let her know that the engine in the crx isn't really all that powerful but still performs well because of the power to weight ratio.

I'll shut up about the intro now, does anyone know the curb weight of a 2000 dodge ram van w/3.2L v-6 (very crappy) and a 3 speed auto? I already know the curb of my car, I just want to be able to compare it to the family vehicle. thanx

 

which series of dodge ram van? there are several trims/packages? also there is no 3.2 v6 the only v6 offered is 3.9 liter..unless your talking about the caravan which has a 3.0, 3.3 and 3.8 v6...??

 

although i can sympathize with your mom cuz my parents was always afraid of the same thing...the biggest thing that will change her mind is to show your mature/ responsible enough no to be a complete moron...which may be hard depending on your age.....seeing that your parents are buying your car im assuming your probably 15-17yrs old....if your older than that then you need to get a job and buy your own :werd: but back on point almost EVRYONE speeds so its how often and by how much you speed is the real question...showing personal responsability will help the most..... :irock:

 

well if it is indeed a dodge ram van with a v6 than the hp to weight ratio would be 1:26(1 hp to every 26lbs...175hp/4577lbs curb weight) and as far as the dodge caravan we'll just say its the 3.0 v6 since you said it has a 3 speed auto which the 3liter is the only v6 with that option then the hp to weight ratio would be 1:19 and its hard to say what the hp/weight ratio would be unless you give a specific year and trim of crx...but for example a 1989 honda crx si weighs 2174 and has 108hp so it would have a hp/weight of 1:20 which sadly isnt even as good as the caravan but for arguments sake you cant just go by power to wight ratio because there are many factors...tranny ratio...differential ratio and others none of the CRX's are "fast" from the factory by most tuners standards...but once again peoples perception of fast is diff. many people think civic si's are "fast" but not most tuners....fast enough for stock but not fast enough for most motor enthusiast thus thats why there is such a large aftermarket support for cars

 

the engine has nothing to do with how fast you can go.

your CRX is about as safe as being in a motorcycle, if that due to the blind spots.

if shes worried about safety then i'd probably be a good idea to look into another car.

 

If this is your first car, then dont get a CRX.

Get a newer honda, maybe a EG coupe...

 

Get something somewhat responsible...a low weight but decend hp, 2 door, 2 seater CRX will cost them a lot in insurance expecially for a 16 year old driver. You get any tickets and it gets much worse for them.

You want to get into cars start with something like a Civic sedan where you get a longer and wider wheelbase than a CRX (makes it safer for rookie drivers), small engine but can be modified (slowly) as you gain experience, can be a swap candidate in the future if you get really into it, they are reliable and well built, and since they have 4 doors there's more room for friends to fit in there for road trips. Plus picking a sedan show's your parents you want to be safe. But Civic Sedans can be very fun to drive and modify if you go down that road.

 

4drs are the way to go...got the "sleeper" look and can haul all your friends...thats why i got my DB8 aka 4dr GSR...i loved it but spun a rod bearing after only having it 2 months....but a civic sedan is a good idea....or even a accord sedan cuz a h22 swap can be very potent and the f22's have a prety good aftermarket support