1992 Hyundai Pony Excel GLSi 1.5 MPI petrol

Faults:

In the first year of ownership, transmission ran into problems, can't engage 3rd gear when travelling >55MPH. Rectified by agent but never performed as well as new again.(loud)

Power window cables snap like bamboo sticks. Replaced six units of power window cable units costing $100 each. 2 to each of the front doors and 1 to each rear door.

MPI programme goes haywire after change of battery in the 2nd year of ownership. Engine idles between 600rpm and 1300rpm depending on its mood. Agent couldn't rectify it!

Clutch plate has metal shards lodged in it during production, results in wobbly clutch connection. Discovered after change of clutch in its 5th year (1997)!!!(Initially thought it was my lack of skills)

Front drive shaft bearing seal started leaking after 3 years. Still leaking till today, didn't bother to rectify it. Too expensive. In the meantime, kept topping up motor oil whenever I can.

General Comments:

Even though it has quite a number of niggling flaws, it is a splendid car for the money. Though it is Singapore and it cost me S$60,000 in 1992, still good value for money considering a suzuki swift goes for that price too.

Saw me through a total of 6 years until last month when I upgraded to a Lancer Mivec at S$104K!

So looking back, it was a pretty good deal. Looks good too with its colour coordinated bumpers, handles, mirrors etc....Actually looks a class up after installing alloy rims.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 11th October, 1998