Firstly, none of the cars you are looking at will be good at fording floods. The Mazda3 has the highest air intake of the lot, but it's still not a good "flood car". Best bet is: if the flood is bumper level, don't attempt to cross it. Even with a high intake, bow waves in front of the car and from passing trucks can push water up into the intake.

SOHC versus DOHC has less of an effect than the inherent efficiency of the engine itself and the efficiency of the transmission.

If you're considering an A/T car, I'd put the Honda Civic at the top of the list. Comfort-wise, the Mazda3 is also up there.

Rear disc brakes and ABS. No, it's not very important if you drive conservatively. In fact, the rear brakes have very little effect on braking power, overall. But ABS is helpful in the rain, as it'll help prevent spins and slides when you turn and brake at the same time. But if an accident happens too quickly for you to swerve out of the way, ABS won't help you stop any faster.

The Choices:

If handling is what you're after, the Mazda3 is the best of the lot. Very good steering, good brakes and terrific handling. Great interior, too. Only minus is a slow AT, but it's better than the same transmission in the Focus. Because of the good looks, the resale value of the Mazda3 is actually decent, too. It may be older than the Civic, but it still looks great inside and out. So far, there are no major headaches reported by Mazda3 owners.

The Civic's steering is a bit too light, and the shocks are kind of soft and floaty. The tires are likewise pretty uninspiring. Also, if you're not used to it, you might not like the fact that you can't see the hood of the car. Despite this, it's still better than the Altis, and more comfortable than most cars, and seat space is great. The engine is very good, and as efficient as the 1.6s, even if it's a 1.8 (expect 8 km/l in traffic with an AT). There are some niggling trim issues with the Civic, but as long as you pre-inspect the unit you buy, there should be no problems. This is a safe choice.

The Focus has the most sophisticated suspension of the group, better than the Civic's. Handling isn't as sharp as the Mazda, but it's still very good, and the car feels as solid as a rock... or a Mercedes. The Trend has cheap plastic, an average back seat, and a slow AT. BUT, this is the only car for the price which offers rear airconditioning, and the sound insulation is as good as expensive European cars. Despite the plastic, it really feels like an expensive car inside. If you can learn to drive an MT, this would be a good choice, and your parents would love the comfort.

The Corolla is the boring choice, but it's a practical car, easy to drive and with no major headaches. Suspension is a bit bouncy, and sound insulation isn't as good as the newer cars. Nice big rear seat, but that's all.

The Lancer offers lots for the money, but it's small compared to the newer cars, and the running gear is kind of ancient.