A car designed and built way ahead of its time
Only the pneumatic struts holding the gullwing doors needed to be replaced, otherwise just the usual wear and tear like any other Toyota.
Well built, very fashionable, one of a kind design; the closest you can get to a concept car.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 27th May, 2010
Manual transmission makes it sprightly and fun, the Phase III spoiler and grey interior is handsome
Very little has gone wrong with the car as a result of Toyota's build, though at 14, the suspension bushes, door struts and other parts are getting quite tired.
The importer made a total mess of the car's wiring, and consequently also the bodywork, just to fit a foglight. They also ruined the trim. When buying a Sera in the UK, it is worth checking the interior very carefully for damage.
The Japanese do generally take care of their cars. I wish the British would do the same.
The manual transmission is fantastic, with a rifle-bolt slick gearchange (click-click - very positive). Handling is poor on this one because the dampers are now well past serviceable - replacing the suspension will cost around £700 for genuine parts.
The Phase III Sera offers a couple of small refinements - it has a plastic, instead of rubber, spoiler with a high level brake light (the primary identifying factor), three-point belts in the rear on some models, and grey interiors (Phase I and II models have blue or beige). They also have side impact beams.
For servicing it is essential to take the chassis number. My car, built in July 92, required stronger door struts to compensate for the side impact protection, and I ordered the wrong kind. Doors should lift themselves from waist height, if you want to see operation is correct. Strut balancers, the internal component of the struts, actually make a significant difference on older cars. Expect to pay £300 per door to rebuild the mechanism fully.
The SLSS surround sound system is invariably broken. Aftermarket systems cannot make full use of this system, so buy with care. The processor for the sound system costs £1,253+VAT new.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 2nd September, 2005
Looks and performance combined, a great budget beauty
Very little trouble with this car. The door struts are slightly weak, but other than absolutely no problems.
This is without a doubt the best car I have ever owned for a number of reasons. While it may not be a power-house, it is certainly quick enough to handle most situations.
The reliability is incredible, a 14 year old car that will take all the abuse you can throw at it, and come out purring is a rarity. This coupled with the fantastic design, inside and out makes it a joy to own.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 10th May, 2005
This is Ajay from India, I've owned this beauty for almost 2 years now. I would only say that it's a prestige to own such a car, which is in our history! Every time I look at it, I fall in love again...
Cheers
Wadhwa Ajay
I have been a proud owner of this car for 8 years now. I'm in love with it. It's a beauty both from the outside and from the inside. A head turner. Very fast and economical.
I still can't believe it's a 1990 car, 16 years old, since its still one of the most sexy cars driving in todays roads.
Its not unusual to find people admiring it or watching it in amazement, as I open the doors upwards.
I just can't find the right words to describe this car... A rare Gem maybe!!!
14th Aug 2005, 16:03
I love these cars, the doors opening upwards make a little 'whoosh' sound in my imagination...
The door struts are probably not 'weak' per se, likely just need to be replaced or regassed (an old car remember). Just normal wear and tear, not manufactured with poor struts.