1994 Eagle Summit DX Coupe review from North America

The engine heat gauge didn't work, and it turned out to be a worn out thermostat ($15).

The dome light and stereo didn't work, so there is a short somewhere in the system. I pulled the fuse so it doesn't wear down the battery, and am living with no dome light for the time being (and wired the stereo off the ignition).

I couldn't find the original sized tires (145/80/13) so I bought some 175/70/13 tires and wheels from a Civic. They fit perfectly and handle better too.

It has no frills at all. No tachometer, no AC, no power steering, no electric windows, no swaybars, etc. The only things that could be considered options are two mirrors and a defrosting rear window. But it's dependable transportation, great on gas, and as comfortable as your favorite slippers.

We haven't owed it long, but I can speak to its dependability because when I did a full checkup and maintenance nearly every part (except for the battery and brake pads) was original after 18 years!! We changed the spark plugs, timing belt, fuel filter, cap and rotor and now it runs very smooth and quiet like a new car. We also changed the trans oil with synthetic and greased the squeaky clutch cable and now it shifts like new too.

The only negatives are the seams in the front seats are unravelling, there are no coffee cup holders, and the metal is thin--thus like most of them it has its share of parking lot dings (but is also the reason wey it's so great on gas). And like a Tercel you know when you're on the highway due to lots of road noise.

These Summits and Colts are made by Mitsubishi in Japan, and also sold around the world as a Mitsubishi Mirage. It has the same size engine and drives a lot like a Toyota Tercel but looks a little more like an similar aged Corolla. It's probably about as dependable as either with a lot cheaper price tag so its a great car for anyone who wants Toyota or Honda reliability and doesn't mind a Dodge or Eagle hood ornament.