1980 Leyland Maxi review from UK and Ireland

The head gasket failed several times.

The shift linkage failed.

The carburettor developed a fault, and had to be replaced.

Heater core was plugged.

Numerous electrical gremlins occurred.

Driver side seat frame broke.

This is perhaps the ugliest car I've owned. What were they thinking? The Brits are so capable of building fine cars, but they punted here. Still, the bodywork was sound and well engineered. The doors and panels fit together well, and the car was reasonably solid.

The engine was another story. Clattery, smoky, and always leaving chips of metal in the oil, it just wasn't very good. I gained proficiency in changing the head gasket, and could repair it in about four hours. Still, what a clunker. It would frequently stall or misfire right in a roundabout, which always provided great thrills.

Still, after all the drama, it did a good job of getting me around whilst not taking all my money. Not bad for a car that is considered by some as one of the worst ever.