1971 Checker A12 Marathon review from North America
"A great alternative to a Mommyvan."
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I launched the car off a "humped" road crossing and landed on a raised manhole cover (the road was being fixed and I was driving too fast) cracking the frame cross-member beneath the engine.
General comments?
The only bad habit is fuel consumption. With heavy springs, good shocks, and a fast ratio steering box it handles fine. Small block Chevy V8's can make as much power as you want to pay for.
I enjoy driving it every day.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 1971 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2005 |
| Engine and transmission | 350 GM V8 (4 bolt mains, high nickel block Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 10/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 200000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 280000 miles |
| Previous car | Studebaker Lark 8 |
| Date of Entry | 18th February, 2005 |