1996 Mercury Mystique GS 2.0 gasoline from North America
Summary:
A dependable, fun ride for 10 years that has never given me any serious problems.
Faults:
Tires at 55,000 and 105,000, normal wear.
New plugs at 65,000, normal wear.
New brakes at 95,000, normal wear.
New timing chain at 95,000, normal wear.
New headlight lenses at 105,000, normal wear (fogging of plastic).
One new set of wheel bearings, new plugs, new distributor wires, 135,000.
A couple of nagging electrical problems -- driver's side power window, sunroof motor.
General Comments:
This car has given great service over 10 years with a minimum of extraordinary problems.
Mileage with 2.0 is excellent and has been consistent since car was new: 26-28 mpg city, 33-35 mpg highway.
It has never burned oil.
Main problem is the car hasn't grown with my two sons -- the cramped back seat is more of problem now.
Handling has always been excellent, in keeping with car's European origins.
Five-speed and clutch have always been very smooth.
Power is only adequate, but I'm glad I order the 2.0 over the six -- it has saved thousands of dollars in gasoline.
The problems with the window and sunroof motors have been the most annoying and troublesome thing about owning this car.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 24th September, 2006
22nd Dec 2005, 03:56
"Then at 135,000 miles the front muffler rusted through, so I put a straight pipe and just have the back muffler on it now."
You mean the catalytic converter?