1997 Toyota Carina XLi review from UK and Ireland
"A cheap reliable car for the mature driver"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Brake Disks needed to be skimmed when I bought the car (warranty).
Rear links and bushings replaced at 60000 miles. €25
Water pump leaking at 64000. €100
Door handles rattle a bit, super glue seems to have solved this. €1.50.
General comments?
I have had a number of cars and this one has been the most comfortable, everything is layed out to make it easy on the driver. To offset the above problems I get massive fuel economy (about 40 miles to the gallon). one set of tyres in 30000 miles.
This car feels at home on the motorway or on the back roads, the over-steer is all part of the fun.
The 1.6ltr engine is good fun too, but I wish I got hold of the 1.8 instead.
As for image, well I could make a fortune if I got some taxi plates, but I can put up with that for the peace of mind that it will start every morning.
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  | An excellent all round car |
| 1996 - Carina 2.0GLI 2L petrol The car in front STILL is a Toyota |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 36000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 64000 miles |
| Previous car | Nissan Micra |
| Date of Entry | 17th April, 2004 |