Germans lead the pack when it comes to delivering the high quality, high performance automobiles. But there are some Japanese manufacturers that have managed to give the Germans a competition of its kind. Japanese car manufacturers have reported great sales numbers, thanks in large part to the cost benefit the Asian car makers get as opposed to their western counterparts. But this is not always just the cost arbitrage at play; the incorporation of a number of innovative best practices is becoming increasingly visible. Toyota and Honda are two Japanese companies that have emerged in a big way and are giving the westerners a run for the buck. In this review we will be comparing two Japanese marvels i.e. Toyota Corolla and Honda Accord. Both these cars are catering to the mid and full size car markets. Both of these models have seen great success. It is worth noting that as per industry estimates every two minutes three Toyota Corolla cars are sold. Honda Accord has also been a success based on its reputation of being one of the most reliable cars in the world.
Toyota Corolla is available in three trim levels which are Corolla, Corolla S and Corolla LE. The engine used in all the trims is a 1.8 liter DOHC 16 Valve 4 Cylinder with Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence technology. This engine can deliver up to 132 hp at 6000 rpm and the maximum torque of 128 pound feet at 4400 rpm. It has an electronic ignition system with Toyota Direct Ignition technology. This is a front wheel drive vehicle. One can choose between a five speed manual transmission and a four speed automatic transmission, although the LE version comes only with the four speed auto transmission. The manual transmission option provides a better fuel economy. On the other hand, Honda Accord is available in a two door coupe model or a four door sedan. The engine comes in two options: a 2.4 liter four cylinder engine with five speed auto or manual transmission and a 3.5 liter V6 engine which gives only automatic five speed transmission. The power and torque generated varies based on the trim level you choose. It may range between 177 hp to 271 hp and 161 pound feet to 251 pound feet.
Coming to the interiors, Toyota Corolla offers sport fabric trimmed adjustable front seats and fabric trimmed rear seats. Another element of the standard equipment is tilt telescoping steering wheel that has audio controls and metallic accents. You get air conditioning with air filter as well. Honda Accord gets minor updates though. The spacious cabin is filled with high quality materials with an ample elbow room. The interiors are quite comfortable and roomy though. The steering wheel has a number of controls that eases the driver not to wander here and there for common tasks.
On the outside, Toyota Corolla looks fine, not ugly as such. But you would see some better looking competitors though. The new Honda Accord sports an updated front grille, rear deck wheels and bumpers. The looks of Accord are somehow better than what you get in a Corolla. So, in this attribute, the Honda wins over.
Toyota Corolla price starts from $15,900 whereas Honda Accord price starts at $21,380 and so there is a little gap between the rivals and this draws the buyers attention to Corolla a lot. It’s a good choice and worth the price.