1989 Toyota Tercel DX review from North America
"A good bargain if you know a thing or two about cars"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The engine has a tendency to not accelerate (ie: stall) if the car is not properly warmed up.
The automatic transmission has only 3 gears. This could be a much better car with 4, but I guess it has to do with cost.
Various other little mechanical problems typical of a 13-year old car that gets a lot of use.
General comments?
Even though it is old and rusting, I can still drive it faster and harder than many new cars on the road. Naturally this has to do with the driver and not the car, proving that an old car can still run very well.
If you are a tall or large person, then I suggest either you don't carry passengers in the back or you get a bigger car.
The rate of acceleration surprised me the first time I drove the car hard. It was much better than I thought it would be.
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| A grand and faithful car, sadly missed |
| 1988 - Tercel Deluxe Wagon 4wd 1.5 Liter My 1st born |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 2000 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 182000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 213000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 26th April, 2002 |