Faults:

Used way too much gas for a 1.5L engine. A full tank of gas would only last around 300Kms driving in the city. 2 different Mechanics couldn't find anything wrong with it.

The gearbox developed a minor fault around 130,000kms - If I shifted from Park to Drive, the car would remain in Neutral. I had to tap the stick back a notch, then bring it back up to drive in order to drive the car. An annoying problem, but nothing major.

Water pump and radiator hose started leaking around 138,000kms, but was never a real problem. I never fixed it, anyway!

A little bit loud when driving on the highway.

General Comments:

Reliable - never ever broke down on me.

Cheap and plentiful parts.

Cheap to maintain.

Handles well.

I found it comfortable.

Faults:

This review is for a 1.5 Nissan Pulsar K1 N14 Hatchback. It was purchased used, late 2005 from its original owner. Since then the following have occurred.

Replaced Power steering pump (caused a lot of noise) USD$70.

Replaced all 4 tyres.

Right headlamp occasionally goes on the blink. Will rectify it in due course. probably due to loose connector.

Engine is starting to smoke from the breather tube. Worn piston rings are suspect. Am quoted USD$630 for the job. May consider it in 12 months.

Petrol gauge seems to move very fast. So I fill up based on distance.

Carb seems faulty. Drives OK, my tuning the air fuel mixture doesn't seem to yield much results.

Petrol Consumption is rather high at about 9-10 km/l.

General Comments:

When we purchased this car it was in pristine physical condition. The bodywork is rust free, panels were straight.

The interior does not show signs of serious ageing. The plastics have survived our heat very well.

All the buttons work as well as all the printed text on the buttons are still visible. It almost looks factory fresh.

The car is moderately powerful. Sufficient would be the best to describe it. It tops out at around 150km/h and is relatively comfortable and composed at that speed. Tyres are still stock by the way, but the shocks were upgraded to Koni Reds by the previous owner.

Handling is typical for cars of this market group and generation. The skinny tyres give you early warning and there is body roll. The rear suspension does get a bit unsettled with mid corner undulations.

Interior comfort is described as sufficient. The driver seats are very basic in support. Tall rear passengers will have problems with tall drivers as the seat in the rear most position will rest only 3-4 inches away from the back seat.

All the cars electrics work fine. From power windows, to the power mirrors and air conditioning. Nothing has failed on me.

Overall I am extremely happy with this car. She has aged very very well and with the required repairs I believe she will continue on.