Ok I have driven both and still do since i have both in my family. Both are the top of the range and both in very good oem condition.
Here is my review and opinion.
Looks
=====
The CD is good if you like the modern & sportier look with a touch of class. It is more rounded (like modern cars and is actually close in size and general shape to the Euro Accord or TL in the US) and due to its rounded look lends itself better to the sporty look. Its back is chunkier so it adds to the wedge shape (forward biased) sports look more.
The CB on the other hand is more classy due to its more formal look (as it has sharper lines and the classic sedan stance - no chunky back side and traditional "C" pillar and split rear glass). As the front bonnet still points low with a depressed bonnet shape (taking cues from the 3rd gen Prelude) it still retains a touch of the visual sports cues.
Driving
=====
Im my opinion visibility is better in the CB both forward vision and all around vision including rear. The CD has the higher chunky rear so rear visibility is less. Frontal vision on a CD is not as good also due to the convex shaped hood (not to say the CD is bad - infact it has better vision than most of the newer cars today).
Quietness is better in a CD due to better sound deadening and smoother quieter transmission.
Mechanics
========
Mechanically speaking they are very similar with the only difference being the CD's have Vtec on the top of the range models (which pulls a little harder mid range) low and top range appear to be the same. Vtec is tuned for more tractability than top end power. Both have the same red line.
Suspension wise and Handling the CB is better with less body roll mainly due to 4ws and a lighter body or a suspension revision in the CD to be more for comfort. Non 4ws CBs would have handling very close to a CD. However the suspension will still be more tuned for sharper handling in a CB whilst a CD is more for comfortab;e and therefore a little more body roll. But both have the same suspension set up of 4 wheel wishbones and 4 wheel discs so differences are minor but noticable.
XFactor
=========
Technical sophistication is better on a CB due to better steering, dual mode transmission, active rear engine mount, integrated wind deflector in the sunroof, crystal headlights and soft opening glove box, better powered seats, velour covered coin tray and 4ws for some (all omitted in the CD).
However there are some features the CD has which the CB doesnt which is Vtec engine, digital climate controls and gas strut support for the rear trunk. OEM clear/Red rears.
My Opinion
========
I like the CB mainly due to its visibility which is high up in my priority (for safety, ease of driving and all around enjoyment), sports mode transmission and 4wheel steer uniquness which to me tips the scale to the CB.
Compared to the 6th Gen Accords though I'd take the CD even when compared to the 7th Gens. I liken the CD to be the basis of the Acura TL or Accord Euro so its not a bad car at all.
Ok so bring on the flames.
Here is my review and opinion.
Looks
=====
The CD is good if you like the modern & sportier look with a touch of class. It is more rounded (like modern cars and is actually close in size and general shape to the Euro Accord or TL in the US) and due to its rounded look lends itself better to the sporty look. Its back is chunkier so it adds to the wedge shape (forward biased) sports look more.
The CB on the other hand is more classy due to its more formal look (as it has sharper lines and the classic sedan stance - no chunky back side and traditional "C" pillar and split rear glass). As the front bonnet still points low with a depressed bonnet shape (taking cues from the 3rd gen Prelude) it still retains a touch of the visual sports cues.
Driving
=====
Im my opinion visibility is better in the CB both forward vision and all around vision including rear. The CD has the higher chunky rear so rear visibility is less. Frontal vision on a CD is not as good also due to the convex shaped hood (not to say the CD is bad - infact it has better vision than most of the newer cars today).
Quietness is better in a CD due to better sound deadening and smoother quieter transmission.
Mechanics
========
Mechanically speaking they are very similar with the only difference being the CD's have Vtec on the top of the range models (which pulls a little harder mid range) low and top range appear to be the same. Vtec is tuned for more tractability than top end power. Both have the same red line.
Suspension wise and Handling the CB is better with less body roll mainly due to 4ws and a lighter body or a suspension revision in the CD to be more for comfort. Non 4ws CBs would have handling very close to a CD. However the suspension will still be more tuned for sharper handling in a CB whilst a CD is more for comfortab;e and therefore a little more body roll. But both have the same suspension set up of 4 wheel wishbones and 4 wheel discs so differences are minor but noticable.
XFactor
=========
Technical sophistication is better on a CB due to better steering, dual mode transmission, active rear engine mount, integrated wind deflector in the sunroof, crystal headlights and soft opening glove box, better powered seats, velour covered coin tray and 4ws for some (all omitted in the CD).
However there are some features the CD has which the CB doesnt which is Vtec engine, digital climate controls and gas strut support for the rear trunk. OEM clear/Red rears.
My Opinion
========
I like the CB mainly due to its visibility which is high up in my priority (for safety, ease of driving and all around enjoyment), sports mode transmission and 4wheel steer uniquness which to me tips the scale to the CB.
Compared to the 6th Gen Accords though I'd take the CD even when compared to the 7th Gens. I liken the CD to be the basis of the Acura TL or Accord Euro so its not a bad car at all.
Ok so bring on the flames.
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