1990 Toyota Supra Turbo review from UK and Ireland

Exhaust manifold was blowing when I bought the car. This is a common fault caused by the manifold bolts which strip the soft aluminium threads in the head. The answer is to have helicoils inserted into the head which means the head has to be removed.

Valve stem seals needed replacing. These were done at the same time as the above.

The car had a chronic thirst for coolant at first, typical signs of a blown head gasket. Replacing the radiator made no difference. The cause was eventually found to be a split turbo coolant outlet hose.

One headlight sticks in the upright position in warm weather.

Rear wheel-arches are starting to show signs of age, again it seems that this is a common fault.

These cars are currently superb value for money. If it wasn't for the renowned head-gasket problem they could well be worth a lot more.

The six cylinder engine is very smooth although it isn't keen on being revved too high. That said there is no real need to do this anyway due to the bucket-loads of torque available at low revs.

The turbo-lag is particularly noticeable which leads to an interesting time, particularly in the wet!

The car is practical as well, as long as you don't intend on carrying too many passengers. There's plenty of room out the back and the split rear seats fold down.

The ride is firm, which can be annoying, however the suspension and steering feel well set-up and you can really throw the car into corners without losing grip.

I'm not sure of any other second-hand car in the UK with the same level of performance (0-60 ~6s, top speed ~150mph), such good looks, air-con with climate control, cruise control and as many electrical gadgets as you could wish for for less than £1000.