1991 Toyota Tercel DX review from North America

Complete tune up at 133,000 miles ($260)

Something in the engine was clogged at 137,000; (I'm still not sure what he was talking about) ($300)

Breaks and axles at 137,500 miles ($600)

Blown head gasket at 141,000 ($1500)

It burns oil like crazy, but that could be the way I drive.

Can get uncomfortable during long trips.

I blew the stock speakers last year.

Can't have the A/C on while on the freeway, slows the car down. And more than two people in the car causes it to slow down as well.

The backseat is tiny.

I love this car. Loved it from the moment I saw it. For it to be some 15 years old, the body is in great condition. The paint shines when I actually take the time to wash it.

It has some decent get up and go on the street and once it gets going on the freeway, it can be pretty quick. It is not fun in traffic. And it hates hills.

My biggest issue is that it burns oil. I go through about 8 quarts every three months (between oil changes) My mechanic says it's the way I drive (Apparently, I'm not supposed to go 85mph in a tercel)

The first year I had it, I was at the mechanic like every month, but after I had the complete valve job done (with the blown head gasket) the car has been a dream. I wish they still made tercels, because I would definitely buy another one.