Faults:

First sign of electrical problems were erratic instrumentation lighting. Lights that malfunctioned included the seatbelt lights. The check engine lights, and sometimes other lights. Lights would illuminate and stay on or sometimes flash. Other problems included seatbelt malfunction; automatic seatbelt jammed.

The most major problem with this car was a faulty wiring harness. The dealer quoted this at $1700 to repair. $900 for the 'B wire' harness, and $800 for the labor because of the location of the harness which is inside the transmission (according to dealer)

Other problems include degradation of Polk audio sound system which was one of the neat things about the car. Also a speaker on the door came loose. Finally the speaker near the defroster nearly caught on fire (complete with smoke).

General Comments:

This car is fast and handles well. The interior is very nice and on my car was leather. The sound system was great, a Polk audio sound system with 16 or so speakers, a built in 100w amplifier and a crossover. However over time the quality of sound suffered and the speakers started to fall off or catch fire, perhaps it was my choice of music (see: tech itch - scope)

I would not recommend buying this car though as the electrical system is flaky at best, and more likely outright dangerous. I have know other owners that have had the car stall out and die at 65 mph on the highway from engaging the cruise control. If you have this car, I recommend you adjust your controls and leave them there. Do not attempt to use the power windows, locks, cruise control, or any other switch or dial, you will be begging for disaster.

Faults:

Water pump.

Engine connector rod.

Clutch.

Power clutch cylinder.

A/C.

General Comments:

This car performed well when I first bought it, but started to self-destruct at 150,000 km.

Faults:

Car has been nearly perfect.

No major expenses incurred in 11 years.

All systems function at 135000 miles.

General Comments:

Has been the best car I've ever owned.

I drive it every day and refuse to retire it.

Very peppy for a 4-cylinder.

Good handling (I believe Lotus helped tune the suspension on the first gen cars).

Very roomy and comfortable.

All materials have held up well.