1984 Toyota Tercel Deluxe review from North America
"The perfect car for the practical person with impractical hobbies"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I've needed to replace both drive half-shaft (CV joints). They began clicking.
The carburetor needed a rebuilding to make it run smoothly. Could've gone without it though.
Rear brakes needed replacing (drums/shoes/etc.). This was my fault.
General comments?
Gutless engine, but you can easily keep up with traffic if you work the 5 speed.
The car's handling isn't great, as is expected of a soft-sprung wagon, but the balance that the extra weight in the back affords is excellent when you're "at the limit" or in an emergency.
The car doesn't over-steer of course, but it doesn't under-steer nearly as bad as one would expect. It is very neutral.
Very sure-footed in the snow/rain.
Front seats are very comfortable.
The noisy cabin/motor at high speeds takes away from the comfort during long trips.
The wagon looks so small from the outside, but you'd be amazed at what it can swallow.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Year of manufacture | 1984 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.5 Manual |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 90000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 128000 miles |
| Previous car | BMW 2002 |
| Date of Entry | 14th February, 2004 |