1990 Mitsubishi Lancer SE review from Australia and New Zealand
"Well built, value for money small car that has been a reliable and economical performer"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Alternator had to be replaced.
Master brake cylinder needed to be replaced after brake fluid leaked in engine bay.
Water pump replaced.
Minor oil leaks.
General comments?
Owned for more than 6 years, the Lancer has been a reliable and economical car to run.
Adequate power and performance and good fuel economy from the fuel injected 1.5 litre engine. Comfortable to drive around town, but not suited to long country drives.
Reasonably cheap car to maintain during the time I've owned it, fortunately only relatively inexpensive problems have arisen in that time.
Engine by now pretty old and recently uses up a fair bit of oil. I use a thicker type of oil now which helps performance.
The interior is still in excellent condition and the design was quite modern for its time, with dials and controls well laid out. Includes handy features such as a split rear fold seat and height adjustable steering.
The car is well equipped, with air conditioning, tinted windows, a good sounding stereo, power steering and central locking, all of which have performed reliably and helped make the car pleasant and easy to drive.
Overall, a reliable smooth and pleasant performer, with a comfortable interior. Seats are not comfortable for long periods and along with its overall size make it suitable as a city runabout.
Recommended reviews
| A comfortable, economical beast |
| Ahead of its age in looks inside and out, this car is a must for the younger driver |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1990 |
| First year of ownership | 1997 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5 EFI Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 8 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 143927 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 241125 kilometres |
| Previous car | Honda Accord |
| Date of Entry | 27th October, 2003 |