2006 Honda Accord EX-V6 Coupe (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

The 2-door Accord EX-V6 with the manual transmission costs $34,900. That's $900 more than the 5-speed auto model. It's usually the other way around, but the manual version is additionally equipped with a front shock tower bar, a premium audio system, and the leather is perforated. It also has an exclusive colour, Cool Blue Metallic, which isn't available on any other Accord, coupe or sedan.

The base price of the competition is as follows:

Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS, 303-hp 5.3L V8, $32,855;
Ford Mustang GT, 300-hp 4.6L V8, $32,999;
Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, 263-hp 3.8L V6, $32,998;
Pontiac G6 GTP, 240-hp 3.9L V6, $29,885 (6-speed manual is optional);
Toyota Solara SLE V6, 225-hp 3.3L V6, $35,950 (automatic only);
similarly equipped with leather seats, a sunroof and a 6-CD stereo, however, all cars are within $1,000 more or less than the Accord.

2006 Honda Accord EX-V6 Coupe (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123.com)

It all boils down to this: if your desire is for a nicely-equipped and powerful 2-door coupe, but you also want to be noticed in your car, and want a coupe that has an attitude, the Accord might not be the best choice compared to a Mustang or an Eclipse. If you want to be subtle and not so extroverted, and disappear into the landscape in utter high-speed comfort, like me, the Accord might be the best way to go.



What I like:
Bulletproof Honda reliability and build quality
Powerful and speedy
Priced just right compared to the competition

What I don't like:
Lacks character, attitude
Some annoying interior issues
Classy but forgettable exterior styling

CLICK HERE to view the 2006 Honda Accord EX-V6 Coupe's specifications.