I'm going to try and test-drive 2 or 3 Accords and Civics and I think that will help me decide which to opt for. I've only test-driven one Accord (can't remember what year it was, but it was pre-2002 for sure. I wasn't really impressed with it, but then I guess i'm used to driving my mum's 2001 Ford Laser lol so I guess any bigger car would take getting used to.
But right now i am leaning towards the Civic.. It'd be better for petrol, about the same size as the lazer and i'd be happy if I could make the front of a sedan look like:

It's like the prelude - looks sporty/stylish - and not like some hoon's done-up/drag-racing car haha. Thanks for the help! Any more advice is appreciated!