1978 Datsun 200SX review from North America
"It's just friggin' amazing"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
For a 1978 with 200K miles on it, it's in exceptional condition.
When I bought the car, it overheated rather quickly. The guy I bought it from had already told me that it was leaking water, so I knew it was gonna overheat. I was really excited, though, and wanted to drive it something fierce... even if it was only for a little bit. Turns out the problem was just an extremely deteriorated hose. Yep, all it needed was a hose that didn't have a huge gaping hole in it.
Tachometer isn't working. A wire needs to be replaced, is all. I've ordered it already and it should be in any time now.
The light on the inside doesn't come on, but I haven't checked it yet.. might just need a new light bulb.
The steering, I had to get used to. It doesn't have power steering. It doesn't have Anti-Lock brakes either, but they work just fine (I tested them... a lot). :D.
General comments?
I love this car.
I bought it this month for $250 and I am totally flabbergasted. It has current inspection/registration. I had a complete tune up done, engine washed and the crusty hose replaced. It feels like I'm driving a new car. After the paint job and the new tires, it's definitely gonna LOOK like a new car too. It's fast and handles as good as, if not better than, my 2002 Honda Civic. Very smooth ride. I seriously thought everything was gonna rattle when I drove it, but it's surprisingly quiet. Great on gas... turns on right away, no funny noises or smells... it's great.
Recommended reviews
| Bulletproof and Long Lasting - The Most Reliable Car I've Ever Owned |
| Nice overall look and design for sound system |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1978 |
| Year of manufacture | 1978 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 10 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 10 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 200000 miles |
| Previous car | Honda Civic |
| Date of Entry | 14th January, 2006 |