1988 Mazda 626 GLX review from Finland

The car idled high (2000 rpm) when cold. This was due to a faulty air sensor. The idle return to normal when warm though.

It would eat a large amount of oil, half a liter every 2 months.

It leaked oil from the head gasket as well.

The in dash clock would flash on and off over bumps, but would keep the proper time despite this. This was fixed with spraying some Wd - 40 on the clocks wiring harness.

The build quality of this vehicle was in my opinion quite outstanding. Especially when I compare it to my previous vehicle (Opel Kadett).

Fuel consumption was quite good in this car. 500 km on 50l of gas with a mix of half city and half highway motoring. And a constant heavy foot I might add!

I stopped by my local mechanics shop and he told me that the Japanese spend triple the amount of time developing their cars when compared to European automakers. I cannot prove this of course, but I believe it to be true. Especially when comparing it to my previous vehicle.

All in all it was roomy and a well thought out design inside and out.

My complaints about this vehicle are few.

Slow electric windows that squeaked when fully closed.

Minimal performance for a 2 liter engine @ 109 hp didn't exactly blow my socks off.