Summary:
The greatest value car out there!!
Faults:
This car has hardly any problems in 17 years.
Not worth it to fix after it slammed into a tree in 2001. Engine still started after being totalled in the wreck though.
General Comments:
This is the greatest value car out there. Owned for 17 years, put on 170,000 miles. Lots of power, always started up every time. Had a little trouble in the winter around 160,000 miles.
Paid $2000 dollars in 1984, got plenty of usage, and sold it for 50 bucks to a wrecker in 2001 after totalling it.
Great front wheel drive, and boy you could squeal those tires! The Power-Economy shifter was a creative Low-High gear, to make the 4 speed like a 5 speed.
This was the greatest car for the value, and a lot of fun.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 17th August, 2001
5th Jul 2005, 13:34
I owned a 1980 Rs and 1984. Loved the RS - low gear spins were incredible. Put 110,000 miles with no problem.
31st Jan 2006, 13:59
I had a 1980 for a few years and never had anyproblems with it. It was the ugliest thing ever, but it was worth the $50 I paid some old lady for it. The only thing I didn't like was the gas mileage for such a little car, but what can you expect for a 1980 with no fuel injection.
20th Jul 2006, 00:55
I had a very early 1980. It was actually titled as a 1979. That was one of the best cars I ever owned, but it couldn't stand up to the rough treatment I gave it. I managed to actually tear the gear shift right out of the floor.
I got an honest 50 M.P.G. on long interstate trips and in the mid 30s around town.
If I could find another one now I'd buy it in an instant.
22nd Feb 2007, 23:49
Answer to the comment of January 31, 2006. My 1981 Plymouth Champ (same car, different label) was carbureted. My average MPG was 42, hi was 50, & it still gave 40MPG at altitudes from 10,000 to 12,000feet. Carburetors worked good. You can read my full report under 1981 Plymounth Champ w/5 comments.