If you’re in the market for a pre-owned import sports car, the Honda Civic Si and the Subaru BRZ are among your most affordable options. Both cars are fun and relatively inexpensive to maintain. However, which one of these cars is the better option?
Performance
In 2016, Honda begin outfitting the Civic Si with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It’s rated to crank out a competitive 205 horsepower. Every Civic Si comes equipped with a traditional manual transmission, which is considered to be one of the best in the business. With a 0-60 mph time of around 6.3 seconds, the Civic Si is definitely quick enough for you to have some fun. Fuel economy tops out at around 30 mpg on the open road
Unlike the last generation of the Honda Civic, the Subaru BRZ comes equipped with a non-turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, it develops an identical 205 horsepower. When launched from a stop, this car accelerates to 60 mph in about 6.4 seconds. In terms of fuel economy, drivers can expect the manual-equipped BRZ to return up to 27 mpg.
Keep in mind that only the BRZ offers an automatic transmission. This is good news for drivers who hate shifting gears in heavy traffic. While the automatic version of the BRZ is not quite as quick, it does have a better highway fuel economy rating of 30 mpg.
Handling
The Honda Civic Si has always been one of the most agile front-wheel-drive cars. It maintains great composure around fast curves. However, expect the rear-wheel-drive Subaru BRZ to offer even more athletic handling. A lower stance and superior weight distribution help the BRZ to dominate twisty roads. This is why the BRZ has become a favorite among amateur track enthusiasts.
If you plan to drive in during wintry weather, the Civic Si is a better option. Its front-wheel-drive system helps promote enhanced stability. The BRZ is more likely to experience fishtailing on icy roads.
Reliability
Mechanics have long praised the Civic Si for its excellent long-term reliability. However, the car’s turbocharged engine is not as bulletproof as the previous naturally aspirated engine. Some owners have reported an oil dilution problem. Because this issue occurs more in cold climates, it’s recommended for owners to change the oil sooner during the winter months.
The Subaru BRZ is quite dependable for a sports car. However, BRZ owners do need to keep an eye out for potential oil leaks. This is especially true when surpassing the 100,000-mile mark.
Practicality
Both of these sports cars are great for daily commuting. However, the Honda Civic Si has a more space-efficient cabin. Greater hip room in the front makes it more accommodating for bigger drivers. Furthermore, passengers will have noticeably more space in the Civic Si coupe’s backseat. You’ll find the four-door Civic Si to be especially practical. A much larger trunk gives the Civic Si another advantage over the Subaru BRZ.