We can't answer that for you. Worry about getting a license first, and hope that there's still an RSX around that hasn't been roached when you can drive.

 

"Too much" as in....what, exactly? It's not some high horsepower beast that you're going to turn sideways easily.

 

A RSX is a great 1st car. My 1st car was a 77' Chevette two door hatchback 4spd. It may of had 60HP or something.

 

That's a good question to ask yourself. --- Without knowing your situation, I'll just provide general thoughts. --- Most new drivers and first time car owners are typically teenagers (unless you live in an urban city and use public transportation) Some just buy the first cheap used car that starts and drives ok. Just to get use to driving and the responsibilities of car ownership. --- Why do you need a car? (drive to work, pick up your date, go places with friends) What is your budget? Do you have savings? You mentioned project car ...Are you mechanically inclined? Do you already have skills? Do you have access to a garage/workspace? Do you work on cars with friends?

 

just don't knock someone up and start making babies. build a nice car and be done with it. then invest your money. the Honda Kswap the world will start drying up Hondas/Acuras the old Kseries nice ones.

 

I bought a clean-ish low mileage RSX just under a year ago, there are a lot of issues that can arise on an old car like an RSX if you aren't intending to spend a lot of money on it. Don't worry about the drivetrain (if you buy low mileage with a good history), it's the items surrounding the engine that will fall apart. I love the car and it is a fun car to start working on as a first car. If you are looking for a type-s you might have some issues finding a low mileage clean example, which is what I would suggest. If you can drive a manual, buy that if you plan on doing any mods later on. I bought an automatic and I wish it had been a manual. Also, I probably wouldn't suggest buying an RSX with the intent of modding it and then selling it. Modded cars don't sell for as much as you put in, only mod if you intend to enjoy them.

Overall, I would suggest it as a first car. It isn't the fastest car out there or the most technologically advanced, but it drives great and is fun to own and work on.

 

Since this is your first car, don't get a Type-S. Your insurance rates will go through the roof since you are under 25 and that Type-S badge spells "Sporty sports car, this kid is going to crash it" to the insurance companies.

Get a 2002-2004 RSX 5-speed. Without the Type-S badge, the insurance rates are much lower.

If you can only find an automatic, you can forget about seriously modifying it apart from exhaust, intake and stance. But if you don't care about driving an auto, then great because those are the cheapest.

Honestly, if you can't find a good example, see if you can find a newer 5-speed Accord.