1980 Holden Gemini TE review from Australia and New Zealand
"The car handled and drove like a dream, but its reliability to run %100 all the time was an issue"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
First the motor started blowing smoke, which required a rebuild including bearings, rings, and gaskets.
The boot started to rust out.
The differential housing bent, with no apparent accident to cause it.
The water pump stopped circulating water which in turn blew the radiator.
After replacing the radiator, thermostat, water pump, and flushing the motor, the head gasket blew.
The head then cracked.
General comments?
This Gemini handled really well, and drove fantastically when it was working.
Even when the differential housing was bent it was hardly noticeable in the steering, only in the tyre wear.
I had a custom 2 1/2 inch sports exhaust fitted, and this made the car run a little hotter, which gave better fuel economy.
Even with a cracked head, and water pouring out of the exhaust pipe, the car would still start up, though it would not go fast.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 8/10 |
| Reliability marks | 3/10 |
| Comfort marks | 4/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 130000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 190000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Ford Falcon |
| Date of Entry | 6th July, 2001 |