Faults:
Alternator failure @ 160k ($90).
Distributor failure (drive bearing) @ 180k ($200).
^These are the only two non-wear items that I have had to replace^
I have replaced the following wear items:
Shocks/struts.
CV axles.
Sway bar links.
Timing belt / water pump job.
General Comments:
I am very satisfied with my purchase of this car. I paid $1400 US for a car that has given me 50,000 miles of relatively trouble free performance. I don't plan on getting rid of her any time soon; going to drive her until she has a major mechanical failure.
The car handles surprisingly well for its primitive suspension setup (torsion bar front/semi-solid rear axle). However, the suspension has very little travel and often bottoms out when hitting pot-holes and train tracks. I gave the comfort rating a 5/10 because the suspension is harsh on rough surfaces, and the seats hurt my back on long commutes.
The engine is typical Honda: gutless below 3k RPM, brilliant above 4k rpm, and dead reliable. The engine's specific output is very good for a late 80's engine (~74hp/L); compare this to a Ford 5.0L of that period (~45hp/L). She is no race car, but surprisingly peppy. Don't be afraid to rev the little d16a1 out, the solid lifters and DOHC design leave little to break. The close ratio transmission gearing (1-4) is perfect for zipping around town and full throttle runs. Honda should have made the 5th gear a little longer for highway cruising though. The car is very fun to drive!
I average 36-37 MPG driving back and forth to college (30 mile one way 55mph highway), and have seen as high as 40 MPG. I calculate my fuel mileage at every fill-up, and have never seen less than 30 MPG.
I love my g1teg. I take care of her, and she takes care of me. If you need any help with your g1teg or just want to share yours with other g1teg owners, visit g1teg.org
14th Aug 2016, 03:14
Very perceptive picking up on the high-speed overeating being a radiator-flow problem :)