VX vs. Insight?

[Matt Timion]

Recently I posted about me wanting to buy an Insight for a number of reasons.

Read thread here

It has become clear to me that Insights have lots of issues... issues with the catalytic converts, IMA battery packs, and a few other small things. The only problem is that repairs costs an arm and a leg, and the only people who will actually do the work are the dealerships. It's almost impossible to find a mechanic comfortable working on a hybrid.

so, the Insight (A decent one) will cost about $7000-8000. We're looking at 50-60 MPG... possibly more if I do highway driving, which I don't.

Found a 1992 VX (160k on motor) within a 10 hour drive for $2600.









here is a thought... buy the VX... take the z1 engine out of my frankencivic and sell the shell. Take the VX rims off of the frankencivic and swap for the rims/wheels on the VX now. Keep the z1 engine in my garage until I need to replace it. i'll be losing some money on the frankencivic sell, but that's assuming it'll sell anyway. Besides, having a spare engine isn't bad, is it?

Meh... this whole decision making process sucks...

With a VX, I KNOW that if something breaks I can fix it myself... or it can be done cheaply at a shop. With an Insight... not so sure. A new Cat for an obd1 Civic VX would be cheap. Besides, I already have one here... thanks Bunger.

Cost wise, it makes perfect sense to go for the VX. I'm starting to think that it makes sense emotionally too, as I wouldn't have to worry about little gremlins in the VX as much as I would the Insight.

feedback appreciated.