I have a 99 EX, 4 cyl VTEC w/auto. Excellent car. Our fourth Honda.
Yes the 4 banger rides stiffer than the 6 due to the front weight
issue. But, it handles better as well. I believe the balance between
ride and handling is perfect. The seats are very stiff. Much stiffer
than any of my previous Hondas. But I find the extra stiffness
refreshing on a long trip. It's my first Honda with an auto. I think
the tranny shifts great. Sometimes I miss the 5 speed, but only
sometimes, I wouldn't trade back. Honda's 4 bangers are all bullet
proof. If you change your oil on a regular basis you will easily hit
200K. Some of the finest engines ever made. I considered buying a 6
but went with the 4 and am glad I did as Honda is having transmission
issues with the early 6 cylinder releases. If you want a car that
rides and sounds like a marshmallow Honda's are not for you. Seems
weird people are trash talking one of the finest suspensions for the
money and don't even know their recommended inflation pressures.

cal