Winding country roads provide great driving delight. They give sports car owners ample proof why they often sacrifice luxury and comfort for speed and excitement.

In Northern California, the wine country roads through the Napa Valley and Mendocino Coast are prime examples -- at least for drivers. There are plenty of stretches where passengers susceptible to car sickness may be in trouble. But for a driver, the deep turns and switchbacks require plenty of shifting, maneuvering and accele ...
Author: James Raia
Click here to read the rest of this article...

Just inside the guard gate, the world renowned 17-Mile Drive in Carmel, Calif., begins with a primarily downhill and often winding two-lane road to Pebble Beach Golf Links. The tree-lined route features lavish, oceanfront homes and a predominately forest-like setting along California's central coast.

It's a perfect several-mile locale for drivers who like to shift through gears. And it's not-so-surprisingly pleasant while doing so in the 2005 Honda Accord.

With its V6, six-speed m ...
Author: James Raia
Click here to read the rest of this article...

At last count, Honda offers nearly 40 varieties of the 2005 Honda Civic. It's a perennial best-buy, and with the Ford Focus and Toyota Corolla, the Civic is one of the most visible vehicles on the road today.

And there's little argument Civic's popularity isn't warranted. Honda has capitalized on the compact car's success by presenting three body styles and the notable options of a gas/electric hybrid and two-door hatchback. But does Honda really need another option in the Civic line? Author: James Raia
Click here to read the rest of this article...