1998 Nissan Sentra GXE review from North America
"Fantastic buy - I wish they still made this model!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Brake Maintenance once - Groaning noise
New Battery @ around 90k
Rear Passenger -side window motor broke (around $300 to fix)
Serpentine belt snapped at 115K - replaced both for less than $100
Headliner started to separate from roof at 115K - annoying, but not critical.
General comments?
GREAT little car! Perfect for reliable, cheap, comfortable transportation. The engine is slow to accelerate, but runs very smoothly at all speeds. The clutch is smooth and reliable (117K and still going!)
Mileage is fantastic - 34-36 MPG (manual trans).
Comfort - The Sentra is VERY comfortable for a compact (save for slightly-firm seats). Very roomy and lots of head-room I'm 6'3'' and fit just fine in this car.
FUN - The acceleration is slow, but the care handles very well. The short wheel base makes for a tight turning radius - easy parking!
ANNOYANCES - Slow acceleration (minivans outrun the Sentra) ) ; The A/C further depletes the Sentra's acceleration, but the car runs OK with the A/C on once you are up to speed), headliner is falling down, rear speakers buzz at low-base/high volumes.
APPEARANCE - The interior has held up very well. The dashboard components are boring and not as refined as the Civic, but all function perfectly and are comfortable to use. Exterior - My black paint has dulled significantly, especially on the passenger side. However, nothing a little TLC can't take care off. No peeling or rust. Still looking sharp!
OVERALL - BUY THIS CAR! This feather-weight is extremely cheap to operate and feels like it will run forever. The styling is sharp and the ride is smooth. Perfect commuter car!
Recommended reviews
![]() ![]() | A decent car for a first time buyer |
![]() ![]() | You get your money's worth with this car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1998 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2007 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Ltr $ Cylinder Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 68000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 117000 miles |
| Previous car | Nissan Honda Accord EX, 1990 |
| Date of Entry | 15th July, 2007 |

