Well, I have almost every car available on the market... and the B44 is by far the best. It just works like a charm everywhere! There's no fuss, and it's super reliable!
Get a different shell if you don't like the looks! Myself I use a D4 shell on it.
I know you didn't consider it, but I'd REALLY reconsider!
The XX4 is even better to drive, but with the power these days and high grip tracks, the narrow belts tend to break too often.
As to the DEX I'm sure the R-version is cured as opposed to the first version. A new car normally has some child deceases.