Help! Buying new Corolla? (03 style change)

[sevi99]

Hi, I am looking at getting either a Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic. After reading some posts on here I think I might be leaning towards the Corolla. I'm looking between yrs 03-04 as I like the new style and thats about the newest I can afford. However I am concerned that maybe I should stay away from 03 (possibly 04) since the style changed-as I know w/ other cars they typically have some kinks that need to get worked out when they change styles. Can anyone tell me did they make changes to more than just the body (engine or any other important areas) during this time and offer any advice on the subject?


I also have a question about the transmission-(I'm looking at an automatic because the wife is incapable of learning to drive a stick) but most of the automatics I've seen do not have overdrive and alot of the manuals do. Should I shop around for automatic w/ overdrive if I'm putting lots of freeway miles on it-just curious if not having overdrive will affect the longevity of the car.



Thanks in advance

[jamesmetairie]

corolla "ve" in the late ninetie,s were 3 speed automatic,s. all other automatic corolla,s from that era were 3 speed with the 4th speed (overdrive) as far as i know. i think all corolla,s 2003 on up have "overdrive". you can search "consumer guide" . that site will give you good reviews of what ever car you,re after. good luck .