Faults:

Electrical faults were the most common, alternator failed, replaced for a reasonable price. Battery changed at this time as well as a precaution.

Electric windows were very erratic, sometimes they worked fine, other times they did not work at all or were very slow to move. An irritation, but I did not bother investigating as 9 times out of 10 they worked.

Usual wear and tear expected of a 100,000 mile + car at over 20 years old = exhaust, suspension, brakes, bulbs, tyres, etc. Some signs of rust, but nothing major (this car has always been garaged/looked after). All oil changes at correct intervals. Previous owner had cambelt/chain checked.

General Comments:

A car I bought after a test drive changed my view of it completely. Neighbor had a Primera 1.6 L, basic and boring, was never a car I liked. Always knew the faster versions were better however. Was initially after a GT model which is the fastest, however after finding this low mileage 2.0 SRi model, I had to have it, was in very good condition for its age.

It is amazing what a bigger engine and higher spec does for a dull car. The Primera was popular in the UK, though it was never regarded as among the best. I did however find it just as reliable as the more common Honda Accord, Mazda 626, etc. Japanese cars which were famous for good reliability from this time period.

To drive the handling is sharp though the ride is a little too firm. The interior has dull grey plastic everywhere, typical 1990's Japanese affair. Some electrics but nothing fancy. But outside the SRi model I have is bright red with alloy wheels, and looks a thousand times better than the basic boring models most people had.

2.0 gives good performance while doing 35 miles per gallon. I believe the GT model is faster. However this SRi is the next best thing.

Mines is currently off the road just now. I might sell it as I have had it a while and cannot keep a 20+ year old car for work, though I have no doubts about its reliability, it has been excellent for an older car. I'm not too keen on the newer Primera's (2002 onwards models); always thought they looked strange and heard reliability issues were common. But the 1990's Primera was among the best of its time.

Faults:

Left side drive-shaft snapped at 250k.

Left side rear spring plate split at 260k.

Distributor and starter had to be replaced at 270k.

Depression hose crumbled at 270k.

General Comments:

Handling was good, was very stable even at high speeds, and there was good feeling of the road, without requiring you to steer all the time. Also, was stable on icy roads with studded tires.

Noise level was OK - a Toyota Avensis is quieter, but the 2008 Auris has more interior noise.

The 1.6 gasoline engine doesn't have much torque in the low end, and with the gearbox having long ratios, performance can only be found by revving the engine to high rpms. On the other hand, fuel economy is quite good, about 7 l/100km.

Headlights were quite dim, even after replacing them (voltages were OK).

Driver's seat gives some leg support even for tall persons, and has lot of adjustment possibilities.

Rear seat is quite comfortable for its size and age.

SLX equipment spec was good for its age, too: AC, electric windows front & rear, electric & heated mirrors, heated seats. Aftermarket (SCS frigette) cruise-control couldn't keep speed constant, but that wasn't Nissan's fault.

Despite the problems, the overall feeling was positive. When a car has close to 300k km on its odometer, you can expect a couple of things to blow up every once in a while.