1978 Chrysler Alpine GL review from UK and Ireland

Only ever let me down once (but was on the way to an interview).

Apart from that, it was the usual consumables and keeping the dreaded tin-worm at bay.

Other than the bodywork, I did most of the work myself.

I inherited this car from an uncle who could no longer drive a manual and found that the car wasn't worth anything, so he gave it to me. It was in fairly good condition when I got it, and I tried to keep it that way until she came off the road in 1996 (still stored at my Dad's, but probably not worth saving).

The gearbox had lost syncro on 1st and 2nd, which made for fun, particularly when changing down.

The engine wasn't really up for the size of the car (Dad had a larger engined model which went well). However she cruised OK on motorways, despite the 4 speed box, and unless you caned her, the fuel economy was very good.

Comfort was acceptable, but she rolled like a boat in corners, and a lot of the interior panels vibrated.

Carrying capacity was huge, and I even camped in her on occasion.

All in all she was a great first car (except for the on-going battle with the rust), and did me well until I got a job and a newer car.