Faults:
The wire that runs from the negative terminal on the battery to the starter has a 3" long gash along it, and this has caused the bare wire to corrode.
Floor panels have rusted through and were patched. Evidence of previous patching was found.
Exhaust has been replaced from the catalytic converter to the tailpipe.
Had to replace the exhaust flange that holds the catalytic converter to the end of the header.
Replaced spark plugs and alternator belt.
Unfortunately found that both the front and rear engine mounts have broken and need replacement. Not too much of a job to fix.
Spots of body rust are everywhere, and on the underneath of the driver's side door, it has a rust hole.
General Comments:
My uncle gave me this car as my first car. It had been sitting for a couple months in his yard, because my aunt's sister had no use for it. Soon after getting it into the driveway, we found many problems with it. Me and my dad took out the seats and console, pulled up the carpet, and patched all of the floor panels.
We are currently changing the front brake pads and cutting the rotors.
I am having a huge electrical problem. After taking the fully charged battery out of my sitting 1979 Camaro (which is too expensive to insure at the moment), we hooked it up in the Topaz and it ran right away. But it was completely drained the next morning. I haven't the slightest clue as to what is causing this drain. My dad says that maybe some of the electrical grounds are rusted over. Any help on the topic would be great.
The rear bearing on the alternator is worn out.
I was very joyful when I heard several comments about the engine such as "it's bulletproof". I'm the kinda guy that loves muscle cars, mainly because of the torque. I have grown accustomed to driving my dad's huge Chevy G20 van with a 350 cu/in V8 engine in it. This is quite a step down, so I might have some issues adjusting to it.
If anyone has any performance modifications that help in the slightest bit, do not hesitate to email me: sephiroth_17@hotmail.com
15th Nov 2005, 06:38
This review is nonsensical. The transmission could not harness a LACK of power? The Tempo/Topaz is already one of the cheapest used cars out there--which cars are "better" that "cost you a lot less"?