15th May 2002, 15:12
I bought a two-door five-speed Sentra SE in 1988. It currently has 232,117 miles on it and still gets nearly 30 mpg in city driving! I once hit THREE full-grown deer (sorry, Bambi!) at 50 mph and the car just kept going (I finished the trip, then got it fixed).
I've replaced the battery, tires, water pump, wheel bearings, and put two or three timing belts in there prophylactically. I had to finally renew the brakes at 200,000 miles. The clutch/tranny hasn't been touched yet. But this car is a CHAMPION, extremely reliable, comfortable, sturdy, zippy and stable.
I change the oil religiously and, although some say it's not necessary, always use premium gas.
I think it was made on a Wednesday. Wish I had another new one just like it.
2nd Apr 2009, 22:22
As a previous owner of a '88 Nissan Sentra I can honestly say it was one of the best cars I've ever owned. I would routinely find myself going 90 mph without realizing it, the operation was very smooth and effortless, amazing considering the engine size. It handled the New England winters with grace, starting the same in 30 below as it did at 75. I wish I could find another!
13th Aug 2009, 12:58
I've owned my 1988 Sentra "TBI 4speed" for over a year. That makes it over twenty years old, and the ODO stopped five years ago at 188387.
I'm telling you it's a great city car. I love it. Now when it comes to making a trek on the highway in Florida, well let just say if it had a tach I'm sure it's in the red at 75 to 80 miles an hour. I don't bother with A/C at these speeds either. That's really the only thing bad I have to say.
I love the inside and the paint as well. Now I don't know any of the history of repairs or if it's just been well maintained before me, but it's a great little car. I change the oil with 10w30 in the winter time. I upgrade to 10w40 and sometimes 20w50 in summertime. So all in all, if you're looking for a small gas saver, this is it, but do try and find one with a 5 speed.
29th Aug 2001, 23:21
I'm 16 years old and live in Montana where the weather changes invariably.
I bought the car (1988 Sentra) in almost perfect condition from a friend for dirt cheap and haven't had a single problem, other than replacing a muffler.
It has started every time I turn the key. It's got a good little engine that has whipped me up hills at over 90. And these aren't little bunny hills mind you.
It's got enough power to haul me and three other wrestlers with all their gear for a week, 30 miles from town to home with no problems. All in all it's a good little car.