1983 Toyota Tercel 3 Door Hatchback review from North America

1. Replaced all four tires ($200.00).

2. Replaced the heater-blower-motor ($25.00).

3. Clutch finally went at 217,000 ($600.00).

This was my first car that I bought from a family friend with 196,000 miles on it for $100.00. It was an ugly coppery color, the passenger door didn't open, driver's and passenger windows didn't roll down, but it was the greatest car I ever owned.

I drove it for six months without oil and the engine ran perfectly. I went off-roading in it and got it stuck in a couple mud holes, but because it was such a small and light car, we just jumped out and picked it up and out.

Four people could comfortably fit in it, but as many as seven could squeeze, but that maxed out the shocks and my back tires rubbed against the inside of the wheel-wells.

The car had no rear brakes. I don't know if they were manufactured this way or if the previous owner had removed them. I don't even know if it's legal to drive without them.

The car started up every single time I started it. It was very reliable and never let me down. Plus it was fun to drive. I never knew that there was a such thing as a 6 speed, but mine was and it was great. But then the clutch started to slip a little here and there, then all the time, and then finally I was stranded on the side of the road when it finally went completely. Even then I sold it for $10.00 to one of my buddies who replaced the clutch and repainted it black, and is still driving it with 278,000 miles on it.

By far the cheapest car I have ever owned and maintained. $325.00 for 21,000 miles worth of driving. I wish I still had my Tercel.