Faults:

Steering rack was replaced.

Electronic ignition module burnt out and was replaced.

Clutch was replaced.

Front suspension bushes were replaced.

Alternator was reconditioned.

Differential was reconditioned.

Gearbox and/or tailshaft gives a vibration at speeds above 40 kilometers per hour.

Rust problems and water leaks in boot area.

All door hinges are worn out.

Most door rubbers are on their way out.

General Comments:

I chose this as a first car because it was simply the best value for money at the time, and it is rear wheel drive.

This car has so far turned out to be a little gem, with most typical high-mileage problems having been fixed during my ownership.

Ever since my initial problems with the ignition module have been sorted, this vehicle starts first time, and has never left me stranded.

Performance is typical of a medium sized 4 cylinder family sedan from the era, and driving this car smoothly is a challenge due to it being carburetted and having a notchy little gearbox.

It has a surprising amount of torque at low RPMs, and after passing the 'flat spot' at about 3000 RPM, a reasonable amount of power is made.

Handling is fairly nimble around town, but this vehicle is not stable far above highway speeds (140 Km/h).

The brakes are a good match for the performance and weight of this car, as I have rarely experienced fade.

As for the cabin, most plastic trim parts are crumbling or warped due to sunlight exposure.

All of the seats are supportive and comfortable except the centre rear squab, however rear legroom must usually be negotiated for with the front occupants.

This car can best be thought of as cheap, reliable transport and as such, a great first car.

Faults:

Master Cylinder seized replacing at 180000.

Original horn has failed.

Seat-belts starting to deteriorate.

Gauges are intermittent.

Car idles exceptionally high (1.5-2k rpm), despite adjusting the idle control.

General Comments:

This car is comfortable, and hasn't caused me too many problems, considering the amount of driving I do.

The interior looks like a scene out of "Night-Rider" because of the array of lights and controls.

Seats are exceptionally comfortable, and the car handles well, especially around corners.

Visibility is good, and the car is easy to drive, despite the lack of power steering.

Faults:

Starter Motor replaced after first 6 months of ownership.

Alternator Brushes worn out 1996.

Clutch, Master & Slave Cylinders replaced 1997.

First cracked Cylinder Head 1997. Rebuild included rings.

Carburetor Gaskets replaced 1997.

Second cracked Cylinder Head 1998. Rebuild included rings.

Third cracked Cylinder Head January 2003. Rings not replaced. Doing all works myself, this time.

General Comments:

Car came standard with 60 series 15 inch tyres, and alloy wheels. This has been great for my cars handling.

Prudent purchasing of Tyres during my time of ownership, has probably helped.

The seats offer fantastic comfort, I have travelled up to 14 hours, with breaks of course, and have been mostly comfortable.

The sound system has over the years needed maintaining, speakers work sporadically.

The 'Star Wars' style instrument panel, while visually pleasing at night, I find readings to be sometimes unreliable, particularly the Fuel Level Gague and Alternator Charge Rate. I am thinking about buying regular gagues to install separately, can never have too many gagues.

The Air Conditioning, Yes I have it, does it really make a difference? Yes I use it mainly to unfog my windscreen. Anything more than that on hot Australian Summer days, it does not measure up.

The Engine could use some more of the power that was derived out of it's inspired racing editions.

Trim and Interior, generally speaking quite good for the cars age, 18 Years Old. Interior door handle surrounds are beginning to crumble, perhaps poor garaging on my part has brought this about.

Headlights / Driving Lights - Were a fantastic addition to this car, I used it initially when purchased to do frequent family visits from Canberra to towns such as Dubbo and Albury. Always traveling at night. Cannot recommend this cars lighting system enough.