1987 Nissan Skyline Excel review from Australia and New Zealand
"My lovable snail"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Brakes went mysteriously one day, only one side at front failed, repaired by replacing front pads.
Engine given up the ghost (2nd time) the other day.
General comments?
This has to be despite what is written above, the most reliable car I've ever owned. The mileage was genuine "wound back" and was closer to 120000 not 79000 when I bought it according to the service sticker in the glove box.
I bought it dirt cheap from in a desperate situation from a dealer ($3000) I was expecting 6 months out of it max. You can imagine my amazement that I still have it.
The engine went once a couple of years ago after pretty much being ignored since I bought it, and went again the other day. (bit of a mystery this time)
The 1800cc motor is definitely very SLOW and is best for around town and motorway cruising, that being said, I've travelled the length and breadth of the North Island in it.
Very comfortable and stylish (if somewhat retro now) interior, everything still goes, even the air conditioning.The bodywork has stood up to the test of time very well, no rust and the paint is still attractive after six years without a garage.
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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 | 1.8 Ca18s twinspark Automatic |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 79000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 1076000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Nissan Cefiro |
| Date of Entry | 23rd June, 2004 |