I am biased to Hondas...but for many reasons...
This is one reason why I'm not a Ford fan:
I know it's not a Probe, but I think if they did such a bad job on the Focus, then what's there to make me think they did good on others?
...and since then, there's been more problems, more findings.
I talked to a guy that was one of those cases with the engine compartment fires...let me tell you, it was not pretty. Total destruction.
I am starting to like some of the old muscle Fords....they can be fast devils....but the more current Fords I have to wonder about...
Meanwhile, I think the del Sol is a fun lil car, gotta love the removable targa.
If you're gonna get a Sol tho, I'd recommend '95+... more features, like lockable trunk release, improved weather seals, power locks, etc.
...take care of a Honda, it'll last you a loooooooong time. 300k mi. Fords from what I hear will last you 200k mi if you take care of them, 100k mi if you don't.
I know it may not help you much....
good luck....
PS...just curious what makes you think that coming into a Honda forum, you're NOT going to get a biased opinion....everyone here I bet loves their Honda. I know I love mine, there is very little in the world I would consider trading it for.