1988 Nissan Sunny Coupe review from UK and Ireland

Digital dashboard clock display occasionally fails on cold mornings, works fine when warmed up. Clock also slows down if the car hasn't been used for a week.

Tailgate gas struts don't work if its raining or covered in frost or snow. Works fine in warm weather, although acceptable for a 16 year old car. Tailgate lock has seized up, the previous owner only ever used the interior release lever to open the boot.

Rust appearing on the bottom of the drivers door, threatening to spread to the sills. Some surface rust on the rear arches, although not serious at the moment. Small rust bubbling around the plastic trim/bumpers on the front wings.

Occasionally difficult to start after a long run i.e. after filling up with petrol. Usually starts on the second attempt.

Bought as a temporary replacement for my previous car for 400 pounds. Came with a full Nissan service history and one previous owner, this unmolested and unmodified example still looks superb, despite its age. The interior is unmarked and looks as good as new. Became so attached to this car and am still using it daily.

Excellent reliability, has never let me down. Always starts first time every morning even at -10 Celsius.

Engine is the reliable carburettor 1.6 which doesn't suffer from the problems of the 16 valve 1.6 & 1.8. Easy to work on for self servicing and replacing components.

Being the base coupe model, there are no electric windows or central locking, although came with a factory fitted manual sunroof. Variable intermittent wipers are useful. Ideal for a car of this age as electrics usually start to go wrong after 8-10 years old. All switches, lights and dashboard meters still work fine. Original top of the range factory fitted stereo/cassette still works.

Strictly a 2+2 seater. The rear seats are only suitable for (very) young children, although even they may complain.

Engine and gearbox still in excellent condition, never missing a beat. Can get noisy above 70 mph though.

Sadly, have decided to sell this car in October/November 2004. Missing the air conditioning from my previous cars. If anyone is interested in acquiring this vehicle, please contact me on rma_1999@hotmail.com. The car is located in hertfordshire (Junction 6 or 7 M1) and will come with 12 months MOT. I will definitely miss this car when I sell it.