1998 Honda Torneo SIR-T review from Australia and New Zealand

The central locking didn't work when I purchased it (apparently a very common fault with this model).

The Bose 10 disc changer would not read CDs from trays 2 to 10. Replacement cost is approx $1000 NZD for a new one.

The clutch blew 3000Km's after I purchased it; this was not a fault with the car, more like the mechanic as when the factory clutch was replaced, the new clutch installed was NOT the correct one, and so it had too much pressure and buckled under the weight. I don't have records of when the clutch was replaced in the country of origin, therefore I don't know how long the second clutch lasted.

The car has 2 weights of power steering; light, which is great for around town, and heavy, which is great for long distances where you want to feel as if you are driving a car.

The general handling of the car is brilliant; you feel safe driving it at any speed. You can throw it into corners and it sticks to the road.

The factory suspension is no longer, and a new set of shocks and springs are in place, enhancing the overall ride experience. The ride height is a lot lower then the factory ride height; this is a problem as the tires rub on the guards, and it has just cost $700 NZD to have the guards rolled.

The 2 DOHC VTEC Litre engine has got the grunt.

The interior is like lunar park' lights in the glove box, ash tray, the main interior light, and dual map lights.

The guys from Honda are real people; they love their cup holders (the whole reason I purchased the car) 2 in the centre console (and yes it fits the Wendy's biggie in it) and 2 in the fold down arm rest at the back.

The seats (bucket) make the car, they are pleasing to the eye. They are nice to sit in and they are wide to accommodate larger people (no offence).

The dashboard and the controls are well set out, nice to look at, easy to read and use.

Boot space is massive.