1997 Hyundai Lantra

Summary:

Reliable and affordable mechanically

Faults:

The Hyundai cosmetic parts of the car are quite bad. After years of use, it's started to deteriorate. Everything inside of the car has slowly broken, like the electric windows and doors are jammed, stereo had suddenly stopped working, indicators play up, air conditioning doesn't work anymore.. but mechanically it is not a bad car, I never had major problems with it.

I only needed to replace minor parts of the car due to years of use, like the battery, disc, tyres.

I have never really spent over 500 dollars on each part of car to get it replaced or repaired.

General Comments:

The car I would continue to use and repair it if needed as the motor is still good.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 25th January, 2011

8th Sep 2012, 00:03

My family bought a Hyundai Lantra 1997 in 1998. We are the second owners of the vehicle. I'm not sure how many KMs were on it when they first purchased it, but the car then got handed down to me for my first P Plate car.

I am now 22, we have had the car for 14 years, and it has now done around 380,000 KMs. It has been the best car! So easy to fix; we did have minor problems, but they were so cheap to fix!

I think they should make a 2012 model, but with new features, and make sure the front of the car where the engine and pumps are, and oil and everything goes, isn't so squishy. They should make more room, so the car's easier to work on if it needs to be fixed!!

Such a great car!!! I would recommend this car to anyone!!

In reply to 8th Sep 2012, 00:03

2nd Jun 2014, 00:13

Have to agree. I've had my 5 speed manual since 2005. It had done 150,000 km when I bought it. It's done 322,000 km now. I don't baby it when I drive it; just drive it normally.

Must change engine oil and filter at least every 8-10 thousand Ks. Use synthetic blend of oil. Replaced the old rear shocks with gas shocks. Really good motor. Look how many of them are around still. They are an underrated car.

1997 Hyundai Lantra SE Station Wagon 1.8

Summary:

Good value for a first time driver

Faults:

Unidentified rattle in the motor. Most likely the timing belt needs replacing. Looking at $700AUD to replace.

There is a wobble in the front wheels at 20-30km/hr.

The rear suspension is squeaking, and will need replacing soon.

The car struggles up hill if going more than 80km/hr.

Interior is excellent for a 10 year old car.

Under the hood is impressive also. Very well represented, and it all still looks in good condition.

General Comments:

Good car to have if you want an economical station wagon.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 23rd January, 2008

1997 Hyundai Lantra SE Sportswagon

Summary:

A good value for money car

Faults:

Needed a new cam belt at 100000km, (This is normal)

Surface rust around roof racks.

Other than that a great car to own.

General Comments:

This car is a great medium sized wagon and is very stylish.

Also has good fuel economy, especially out on the highway.

A very good radio/cassette system.

Good power and pick-up with the 1.8 liter motor, over-drive helps a lot.

Very good and reliable for long distance driving.

Air conditing gets very cold, good for the hot summer days.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 21st November, 2002

13th Jun 2003, 09:18

I've owned my 1997 Sports wagon for 5 years, and it's a great little car. It turns heads when driving around Darwin NT (Australia). I have only had to change the cam belt at 110,000kms, and a fan motor. These are a great wagon and have very sporty shape, and handle great at high speed, if you add strong full length side stone guards to it. The Stone Guards help it hug the road, and corner much better. I sit on 180kph from Darwin to the SA border with no problems. Top speed of 255kph (Tho I have had the bit done to the motor, but its still the 1.8 litre) I will never sell my wagon as it is my pride and joy. If you get the chance to buy one, Do it. The only 1 fault I have with the wagon, is the front passenger & Drivers side windows don't seal very well. Cheers... Mark Bowshire - Darwin Australia.

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