1999 Nissan Almera GTi review from UK and Ireland
"Better than a VW Golf GTi?? You decide!!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Having owned the car for over 2 years now, in my experience Nissan`s are a TOTALLY reliable manufacturer.
My car has been driven VERY hard, but well looked after. It has not missed a beat once... just the usual wear items such as brakes and tires. The { timing chain driven } engine appears faultless and bombproof. Its the same engine found in the Primera GT.
The dashboard can squeak sometimes in very hot or cold weather. Easily fixed with WD40 though.
It can also take a long time to get the drivers seat in a comfy position...I`m just nit picking now!!
To sum up. I bet most VW drivers wished their cars were this reliable. How many coil packs and door locks have you replaced???!!!
General comments?
`Didn`t know you could get an Almera GTi any good?`..that's most peoples first comment when they see my car.
Its no oil painting, but the joy riders walk straight past it.
Superb performance. I know its no Subaru or Evo, but its pretty fast. Beats 206 GTi, BMW 323, Focus 170, Golf 1.8T & 2.016v & V5. Faster cars can`t keep up round the twisty bits though.
Engine needs to be revved high, best above 5000 RPM then it flys.
Great handling helped by standard front and rear strut braces... downside bumpy ride.
Brakes not bad
Overall though, the best car I`ve ever driven, or owned taking price and performance into account. Buy a Golf GTi for image alone. Just remember your cars slower, doesn`t handle as well, is less reliable and cost MORE than mine!! I don`t think I will ever sell it, I like it that much. Maybe for a Subaru Impreza Turbo.
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| This car is a Hidden Gem, shame they won't continue it in the new range! |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.0 Twin Cam 16v Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 8/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 40000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 65000 miles |
| Previous car | Peugeot 106 |
| Date of Entry | 13th July, 2003 |