1989 Nissan 200SX 1.8 turbo
Summary:
Quick, but not necessarily fun
Faults:
Piston Rings needed replacing, which proved to be too expensive to repair.
Electrical problems - headlights, central locking.
Rust on chassis rails.
General Comments:
This car is a performance bargain, but be prepared for the hassle of an old Nissan, and the poor characteristics of the turbo.
Give the turbo time to spool up and the car will pin you into the seat. Also, it's reputation as a drifting car is well-founded as it handles beautifully once the rear end has been convinced to break free, in the wet or dry.
However, dealer service is poor, they seem uninterested in helping source parts, a common reply being they can no longer source parts.
A quick turbocharged car is rarely as much fun as a slower non-turbo sports car, and that's true with the Nissan. Despite being amazing on paper, it doesn't live up to its reputation, and I could rarely describe the driving experience as enjoyable. In the end, the constant mechanical problems combined with the low second-hand value of the car meant it had to go...
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 6th September, 2006
7th Jan 2005, 15:21
Well, of course you beat the Viper.
So much of your Nissan has rotted away that you had a significant power:weight advantage!