Had written a review earlier.. Recently I had the opportunity to drive down the expressway to Pune. I have an old 98, 1.5 exi. the honda really handled very well again.. despite its age.. it never lets you down on power, acceleration and handling. And off course reliability. The lown profile of the car gives a real sports car feel, and handles very well.... no fishtailing or swerving... it takes the path exactly as you want it too... unlike other cars that form an arc.. and sweep the whole road.
Had a challenge from a Skoda rs (turbo charged petrol version) on the way.. before lonavala ghats... This Skoda rs is 150 hp and has a terrific powerful engine. The Skoda was very good on straights... accelerating easily while I had to floor the pedal for my honda to keep pace...
HOWEVER ON TURNS.... THE SKODA WAS NO MATCH FOR THE HONDA... HONDA IS HIGHLY MANEOUVOURABLE.. TAKING TURNS AT SPEEDS @ 120 IS WHEN THE SKODA LAGGED BEHIND .( or the Skoda driver chickened out.. I dont know)... Sure the Honda is one hell of a sports car.. despite its age.. driving @ 160 kph continously was an absolute breeze. .. off course I have new tyres and in good conditions which gives me the confidence..
we had a tough competition for over 40 kms., .. where the Skoda overtook on straights @ 3 times... though everytime there was a turn, or overtaking was required.. the honda regained its position.. eventually the handling won over the powerful engine... after the 40 kms.. couldnt see the skoda in my rear view mirror anymore.... till pune...
it was a very thrilling and fun experience.... a challenge that the honda won effortlessly.. despite its age and lesser power compared to skoda rs...
I am not advocating overspeeding or rash driving please... its done by me withing limits of safety...