1986 Toyota Tercel 4WD Wagon 4 L
Summary:
A great college car... and maybe even post-grad
Faults:
Well, let's see... It needed a new engine.
The transmission got overhauled.
The exhaust was patched and a new muffler was put on it.
It has new brakes and fairly new tires.
The battery has been replaced a couple times, but that was mostly due too bad batteries, not power drainage.
General Comments:
The capacity of storage in this little wagon is incredible. I've moved many times because of college, and I've been amazed by just how much can fit in the back with the seats flipped down.
The headroom is a plus too. All of my tall friends are surprised when they still have a gap overhead.
The backseat isn't exactly comfortable, but being the driver, I don't worry too much about it.
Off-road it can hold its own. Snow and rain are easy obstacles, but since the car is still low to the ground any depth over 2 feet is a challenge.
Gas mileage is part of what keeps the costs down. I get anywhere from 25 to 30 mpg even when I'm toting extra cargo in the back.
I know a lot of people with my model have had a rust problem, but even before the new paint job, my car was cancer free... (knock on wood).
No, it doesn't accelerate so fast and at 80 mph or more the whole dash starts shaking (especially if the A/C is on), but I love my car anyway. I thought about getting a Baja or Golf when I crunched the front of my baby, but I just can't give him up.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 11th March, 2003