Driving a new Accord

Just picked up a new 2004 Accord 4-door EX 4-cylinder and (sigh)
automatic. I have to say, it drives very nicely, even with the
automatic. I'd say it's much more responsive than the 1999 Acura CL
3.0 it's replacing, with virtually the same linear performance.

On the other hand, I'm finding it sort of rough on some freeway
stretches with "tar strips" where slabs come together every fifty
feet, or whatever. This roughness seems endemic to all kinds of newer
cars. Harder tires for mileage are no doubt part of the problem, but
I think the stiffer bodies also contribute to this. Computer-aided
design may make the bodies better handling, but I think there are
dynamics of ride that are getting lost in the process.

The CL was actually based on the 1998 Accord, so this new car is two
model changes newer, and you can feel the new technology everywhere.
A lot of really amazing stuff.

J.

 

You've probably checked this already, but if not, see if your tires are
properly inflated.

Cheers,

Pete

 

I've been driving the 04 accord lx sedan for 3 months now. Yes, it rides
kinda rough, and the head rests are uncomfortable. The radio could have a
better antenna system since it loses stations quite easily.

d