1985 Ford Fairlane ZL review from Australia and New Zealand
"Luxury at its best, very affordable, reliable car"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
As usual the ford door handles let it down, always breaking in 6month intervals, the front ones lasting longer.
Roof lining sagged.
Air con only worked on 4 and not 1,2,3. easily fixed by auto electrician.
General comments?
This would have to be one of the best cars I have ever owned. Very comfortable,luxurious and very large interior, comfortably seating 3 adults in back. The digital dash cluster is excellent and clear, showing your exact speed. the instruments around the dash cluster make it easy and accessible without taking your eyes off the road.
The interior is well spaced out and is modern for its age. The electric windows never gave me any trouble, as did the electrical system (bar the air con fan). The car is fast off the mark with the 4.1 litre and starts first go everytime, even on cold mornings. It did chew up a bit of juice when in traffic and if not kept tuned. The car aged very well and with 380 on the clock, it was still going well.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1998 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.1 EFI Automatic |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 8/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 340000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 380000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Toyota Tarago |
| Date of Entry | 30th April, 2004 |