The 2004 has a 7800 rpm redline, right? But vtech still comes on only at 6k? If that's so, it means you use less vtech if you're driving a 2004, as compared with a pre 2004, with an 8900 rpm redline... am I making sense?

The 2004 may drive as fast overall, but there's less time spent in that your-back-pushed-against-the-seat 'zone'.

Any comments from people who have experienced both?

 

I've driven both on several occasions. Let's just say I'm happy with my '02.

 

nope i don't understand what you're saying....both cars are geared in a way where you can stay in VTEC through each gear.....well except first gear...unless you drop the clutch at VTEC

 

The 2004's redline is 8000rpms, not 7800.. (max hp is at 7800rpms for the 2004) but fuel cut-off isn't until 8200rpms, so its not quite as short as you're describing. VTEC engagement does remain the same though, so the time that you're in VTEC before needing to shift is shorter.

 

I've owned both, and like both. The '00 I owned had a nice smooth rev with little torque to VTEC, where 6-9 grand was an event. My '04 has a nice push of idle with a little fatness from about 3-5 grand, then VTEC from 6-8 or so. I find that you can rev into an indicated 8k for a second without cutoff, so I wonder if the redline is either more like 8200 or if the tach is off....

JPOG

 

It's 8200RPM redline.

 

I owned an '03 for about 1 month before getting my '04...don't ask, long story.

The differences mentioned between the two are often blown out of proportion. Except for the 9k rpm vs 8k rpm, there is very little difference. Some more torque can be sensed on the '04, but it is really not that different.

 

sorry, somehow i missed your point? i have driven both and prefer the car i have, just like all of us. you are correct, the pre 04 is has a longer/more rpm sweet spot, this should not be news at this point.

 

Peter

 

my old '00 was a hunk-a-junk compared to my '04.

this is MY view, for MY purposes of the car.