1998 Fiat Marea ELX 1.8 from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Great drive, god performance and fuel economy
Faults:
Cam-belt restrictor, causing irregular noise at low revs.
Exhaust manifold needed tightening as it was generating a squealing noise.
Reverse light switch.
Irregular rev levels when idle (1,700 rpm!) but seemed to fix itself after 50 miles.
General Comments:
Engine performance and fuel economy are excellent, I get 30mpg and driving it hard doesn't seem to affect fuel economy.
The last two Mots have only required new wiper blades and a bulb to pass!
The car has done 50k miles and is only on its second set of front brakes and tyres.
Lovely to drive, very responsive and comfortable. However, does handle poorly in the wet.
Never use Fiat for servicing, It had a full service last May which only cost £80 from local garage.
The car loves high revs, It manages 0-60 in under 8 seconds and I have reached 135mph in it.
Bought the car when it was 3 years old for £4k and it had done £20,000 miles. It has not done 50,000 and still has at least a £2,000 value.
Very pleased with the car, would definitely recommend the Marea and quiet fancy the 2.0 20v next.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 2nd February, 2003
27th Jan 2004, 17:13
We have had this car for five years. This motor is reliable! Milton Keynes Roundabouts seems to have been made for it!
1.6 SX, but give me a 1.8, 2.0 VW, Volvo, focus and I sure give these guys a run for their money. Get it on the M-whatever and, with a max-speed of 140 mph, you can sure shout, "Bring it on!" Honestly, 135 mph and handles like you're at 30 mph.
Can pull up to 80 mph in third and the rev counter is still in efficient range!
Not the eye turner, but well functional, all round!
Draw back? Seatbelt seems to assume you are always pulling it through an emergency stop!