1972 Checker A12 Marathon review from North America
"One of the most fun cars I have ever owned"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Power steering hose too close to exhaust manifold. Replaced twice in three years.
Timing chain slipped at 160,000 miles.
Rust at tops of fenders and in trunk, typical for Checker. Body solid otherwise.
Aside from that, just routine maintenance.
General comments?
The Checker brings a smile to everyone's face and they all want to talk about when they rode one to their grandmother's house, to the airport, to the Statue of Liberty, etc. And mine isn't even painted like a taxi!
A big hit at car shows. Put one beside a Corvette, Mustang, or '57 Chevy and see which one gets the most attention!
Unbeatable passenger compartment legroom and headroom. Smooth ride, fair performance and predictable handling for a three-ton automobile.
Chevrolet drive train reliable, easy and inexpensive to maintain, customize and repair. Body parts becoming difficult to find.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 350 V8 gasoline Automatic |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 155000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 180000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Truck |
| Date of Entry | 8th April, 2004 |