How about a good old Versus thread?

   I'm currently shopping locally for a daily driver that I can take on roadtrips with two teenagers. I just test drove two options that are for sale right down the road and I'd like to share my impressions and seek some advice.

   First up is this:

2007 Honda CRV EX (I think) AWD with 173,000 miles. It's been a bit neglected, has a clunk in the suspension, the steering wheel is crooked and it is in dire need of an alignment. It probably has some curb hopping in it's past. The a/c is also inop but the venerable K24 and the transmission felt great. The price is $6,900 before tax.


   And the challenger, that:

2008 Toyota Highlander AWD with 194,000 miles. It is in great shape and is a one-owner vehicle with little bits of berber carpet cut out for the cup holders and floor mats. The a/c will absolutely freeze you out and the previous owner obviously cared for it. The engine cover said 2GR-FE. I know nothing about the mechanicals of this vehicle and all of the electronic whitchcraftery scares me a bit (not a fan of push button start/stop). The price is $8,400 before tax. 


Thoughts?


Experiences?


Many thanks in advance.

Just from the description, the Toyota is going to have a lower cost of ownership over the next two to three years at least.  It's going to cost more than $1500 to straighten out the Honda (+time), and 20k of miles is really nothing when you're knocking on 200k.

I don't know enough about either vehicle to actually talk about model specifics, mind you, but right now with my money it would be on the Toyota.

There's a paraphrased adage out there that goes something like, "After 100k, you're always buying on condition."

I'm a Honda guy, but I'm taking that Highlander.

Agree with Woody.  That's the kind of previous owner you want.  

What's it cost to fix A/C these days?  $1000?  More?

Nothing against Honda or the CRV, but the Highlander sounds like the better purchase.

As everyone else has said, there's WAY more than the purchase price delta to getting that Honda up to par.

Plus, at 170k+, the K24 is going to be ready for its third timing chain soon... assuming it's even had a second one.

Don't even argue price with the Toyota owner.  Just buy it.

Having spent time in, around, and maintaining both vehicles you want the Highlander. 

I don't see any reason to consider the Honda. I agree, grab the Toyota. 

Daily drivers are not projects or fixer uppers.

Buy the Toyota. 

It looks like the correct answer has been pointed out. I will move along. 

I have the 2GR-FE in our '06 Rav4 and love it. I'd go a Highlander for that reason alone!

The toyota is a much better car, and worth every penny more.

Between those two definitely go single owner Highlander. Also check out Lexus RX from early 2000's. You can find some very well loved examples for sale used.

Here's an oddball suggestion: Look for a base model Highlander around 2009-2013 with the 2.7L 4-cyl. With the six speed auto it can get out of its own way surprisingly well.
Base model has an ignition key, less things to fail (but still has PL/PW/Cruise and the same cold air) + available 3rd row. Mine is a 2012 with 157k and it is a champ. The only thing to know is the radio is a big Mickey Mouse shaped unit that is not easily replaced - although there are some options. 

Thanks everyone!

In reply to OHSCrifle :

Staying with the 2.7L 4 cyl, look for a Toyota Venza.  Generally the same chassis but Toyota's classiest model making it a near-Lexus.  

The model overlap means the lesser known Venza could be overlooked resulting in a good price.