1987 Chevrolet Sprint review from North America

My front brake rotors had to be replaced as they were warped. Brake pads also need to be replaced periodically. This seems to be one of my Sprints few weaknesses.

After 112,000 miles, this 1.0 engine is burning some oil. I suspect that it needs rings and a valve job. However, the engine still runs extremely well.

Interior overhead light has faulty wiring and license plate lights don't work. I've tried to trace the bad wiring with no success so far.

Upholstery on seats is cheap and poorly stitched. The seats are worn and need replacement. My local Auto Salvage Yard has been very helpful in this area.

Plastic on dash is very cheap and is cracking.

Check engine light won't go off even after diagnostic problems are solved.

I have had some underbody rust problems to deal with, but after some patching, the body looks good and is as sound as ever.

Rusty gas tank had to be replaced.

Air conditioning unit too much for this small of engine. My A/C unit is currently not working and I don't plan to fix it.

I speak in praise of the Chevy Sprint. This little car is one tough cookie. It is a pleasure to drive and is the second Sprint that I have owned. I can park on a dime and it handles extremely well at road speeds. With reasonable upkeep and respectful driving manners, this vehicle will last for many years. I definitely recommend a 5 speed manual transmission over the automatic. I had an automatic in my first Sprint and it was problematic. I have the four door hatch version and with the back seats folded down, I can haul many things. I use the Sprint as my work car and it is ideal for this purpose. These are the things that I like most about my Sprint:

1. Dependable - It starts every morning even in subzero weather conditions. The little engine doesn't need a lot of cranking to start and it warms up quickly. The heater works great and throws out tons of hot air.

2. Excellent Gas Mileage - I get in the upper 30's or lower 40's as far as gas mileage is concerned. I go all week on one tank of gas.

3. Easy to work on - I do all of my own mechanical work and find that this little bus is well constructed and practically designed. I have replaced engines and transmissions several times by myself with little special lifting equipment needed. Also most projects can be done by a do-it-yourself person.

4. Fun to drive - My wife claims that I have an instant smile on my face when I drive my little red Sprint. It is nimble, responsive, and roadworthy. I seem to fit onto this car and it seems to be an extension of me.

5. Cute - The 1987 and 1988 Sprint have a cute look to them with their redesigned front headlights and the trim exterior. The later Metro models do not have the same cute look as the later Sprint models.

6. Excellent winter car - This little car goes through snow like a Jeep. You'd almost think that it had 4 wheel drive. With front wheel drive and narrow tire, this car plows through snow drifts in an amazing manner.

I definitely would recommend the Chevy Sprint to others. It is one of Suzuki's

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