1994 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24 3.1 FI
Summary:
The ultimate in fun and economy
Faults:
The brakes have failed twice, though this is CAR SPECIFIC and hasn't happened recently. The anti-lock brakes however are a constant glitch, throwing flashing 'service soon' lights and making strange noises.
New battery and alternator at about 75000km, about the right time, maybe a bit premature. Easy enough and cheap to get done.
General Comments:
For the price to purchase and maintain, the style is unbeatable. It became watered down with the latest generation; the '94 is the best looking Z24 out there.
The torque-laying V6 propels this relatively light car from a standstill to whiplash in no time at all, though the 3 speed auto is a bit of a disappointment for such a sporty engine. This car is not designed to be a sports and performance car, and you'd be mistaken to take it as one. It is however a very peppy and fast daily driver.
The handling is the best part of it all. The perfect steering ratio matched with a sport-tuned suspension makes for sure cornering and quick work of parking lots. The front strut brace adds to the stiffness. People underrate the sheer joy of driving this car into bends.
The interior is what you'd expect from a domestic 'economy' car, though a feeling of a much more powerful vehicle is seen by looking at the dash and gauges.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 30th May, 2002
17th May 2002, 22:11
I agree with the speed thing. I can keep up with an iroc z-28 (automatic 5.0 t.p.i.) with my 94 z-24 (5-speed 3.1mpi). However not with the gas mileage thing. I get between 15 and 19mpg in the city, but about 35mpg interstate. Either way it's a nice car that's competitive. I beat a few newer z-24's.