Faults:

C/V joint replaced at 175000 km.

Bushings and tie rods.

A/C compressor.

Clutch.

Struts.

General Comments:

I have the non USA version, which is bare bones simple, carburated, no computer, no catalytic converter, no power steering, manual windows, very few emission control sensors and tubing in the motor. The only extras are A/C and tachometer.

Nissan did a great job with this little compact in terms of the quality of the components, simplicity, and very easy and cheap to work on. This has to be one of the most reliable cars I have ever had, and coming from a Mercedes you really appreciate the reliable Japanese electronics and general engineering. All the work that I have done is normal maintenance.

It also makes me realize that modern cars are not made to last and are made as cheap as possible to remain competitive.

I was lucky to find this car from a gentleman who never used it. It was 25 years old with 47,000 km on it. Now it's 30 years old with 184,000 km and I am not considering selling any time soon.

Acceleration is smooth; no stumbling, and ample power to go up Costa Rica's hills and for passing. I get 40 MPG highway and maintenance is dirt cheap with parts available everywhere. You're not going to impress anyone as it's a minimalist car. But it gets the job done with no headaches. Mechanics hate this car because it never breaks down, whereas with my Mercedes my mechanic was my best friend.

Here in Costa Rica, in 2017, you still see many of these 80s Sentras on the road in various conditions, but that is testament to the longevity of these cars. This model and Corollas last the longest in my opinion.

Faults:

Alternator died at 149000.

Steering arms replaced ar 150000.

Faulty senosr in TBI fixed a couple times.

General Comments:

The car is seriously lacking power, having only 70 HP, so performance is basiclly non existent, but the engine has good torque (92 lb/ft) for city driving. Going up steep hills with a heavy load is difficult, top speed under 100 mph. Keeping up with traffic requires staying in the upper rev range. Passing cars on the highway takes good judgement to a whole new level. Going up inclines really shows the lack of power. Keeping momentum is paramount while driving this car, because getting it up to speed takes forever!

It handles fine though, nimble, but lacking power steering makes it hard to drive at parking speeds if you're not used to it.

The car is fairly reliable, and failures occur due to age and wear. Parts are cheap, and easy to work on.

The back seats are useless for taller people, so long trips are worth considering if you're going in the back. The front seats are comfortable and there is plenty leg room up front, good for tall people like me (6'3)

Fuel economy is fine, but nowhere near modern MPI engines, this being a TBI.