1998 Fiat Marea ELX review from UK and Ireland
"Great drive, god performance and fuel economy"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Cam-belt restrictor, causing irregular noise at low revs.
Exhaust manifold needed tightening as it was generating a squealing noise.
Reverse light switch.
Irregular rev levels when idle (1,700 rpm!) but seemed to fix itself after 50 miles.
General comments?
Engine performance and fuel economy are excellent, I get 30mpg and driving it hard doesn't seem to affect fuel economy.
The last two Mots have only required new wiper blades and a bulb to pass!
The car has done 50k miles and is only on its second set of front brakes and tyres.
Lovely to drive, very responsive and comfortable. However, does handle poorly in the wet.
Never use Fiat for servicing, It had a full service last May which only cost £80 from local garage.
The car loves high revs, It manages 0-60 in under 8 seconds and I have reached 135mph in it.
Bought the car when it was 3 years old for £4k and it had done £20,000 miles. It has not done 50,000 and still has at least a £2,000 value.
Very pleased with the car, would definitely recommend the Marea and quiet fancy the 2.0 20v next.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 20000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 50000 miles |
| Previous car | Vauxhall Astra |
| Date of Entry | 2nd February, 2003 |