1997 Nissan 200SX SE 1.6 DOHC
Summary:
Nothing special
Faults:
The CV joint boots busted.
General Comments:
It was a good car. But it had very little acceleration. I had to floor it to get to up some hills. It nothing compared to my 1997 Trans Am I had.
It got good gas mileage, but that just didn't make up for the performance of the car.
Oh yeah, the stock speakers are terrible on this car. They can't handle very much at all.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 4th October, 2007
27th Feb 2010, 19:51
To add to her history - she's now at 572K... and still prefers to be driven, as opposed to being a short trip car. I apologize to her regularly, as I work at home now and we don't have the same opportunities to drive... LOL.
Over the last 2 years, finally had to replace the fuel pump, starter and have the hubs replaced as the CV joints had started to weld. Also had to replace the battery connectors as they get loose over time. None of this unexpected - for them to make it this far is pretty astounding! Fully expecting that she will need a clutch replacement (never been done), but when I compare what I've spent in maintenance and repairs, insurance, etc. and the continued reliability (and still a cute vehicle) against the insurance, payments and hassles of a new vehicle - I'll hold on to her as long as I can...
28th Jun 2008, 23:48
Agreed that the 1.6L engine is underpowered, but this is a vehicle that will last for long periods and wants to be run. My 1997 now has 547K on it and still loves to go.
With regular maintenance this engine will outdistance most of the new "FUEL_EFFICIENT" stuff being put out 10 years later. I get 35-37 city and up to 45 highway on this engine. The only key is that it needs to be run -- it doesn't like to sit for any period of time - it prefers to run and run and run.
Other positives: most items requiring regular maintenance are easy to get to - including spark plugs - right on top of engine block. Air Filters and other regular maintenance are easy to access and replace. Very easy on tires.
Downsides: Hate to say it, but electrical (particularly rheostats) has been a problem. Runs thru an alternator every 200K or so. While easy on tires, too light overall particularly on rear and will fishtail if not familiar with behavior on wet roads.
Overall, planning on buying another Nissan based upon the overall behavior of this one... not too many vehicles that maintain over 500K or 11 years...:)