1988 Nissan Stanza E 2.0 gas from North America
Summary:
A great economy commuter!
Faults:
- Timing belt replaced.
- Valve cover gasket replaced.
- Various squeaks and rattles.
General Comments:
So far, this is a great car. The ride is a little punishing if you're used to cushy American cars, but new struts would probably help.
This car handles like a dream! The engine gives plenty of power, and the handling is very flat. It will easily drift through high-speed turns.
Only driveability complaints are the cruising speed (can't cruise comfortably over 80) and the ubiquitous Nissan passenger door rattle.
This car averages 27-28 mpg consistently, regardless of driving style.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 5th April, 2001
27th Apr 2006, 18:39
My late mother said of her 1988 Nissan Stanza, that it was the best car she'd ever owned. A hard city driver who rode the brakes and punched the throttle, she maintained her vehicle faithfully.
With a new battery the car immediately started after sitting for approx. four years in my garage and after filling the remaining 1/2 tank with 91 octain fuel in order to offset four year old 'stale' gasoline, I drove it immediatley to a nearby California State 'Test Only' Smog check location where it passed thus completing the last requirement needed, besides the fees, to legally register the vehicle.
I was advised to replace all four struts by my friend, and mechanic, who also test drove this car at highway speeds that briefly reached 90 mph (kids, don't try this at home). Because of the high speed combined with the softness of the suspension, the Stanza swerved visibly. A timing belt and two thermostatic fan sensors were replaced and a needed oil change was performed.
The car runs well within legal limits with a bid that has been placed upon it by a Florida couple for the wife's mother.
If this purchase does not reach fruition the car will remain with us as a 3rd vehicle for our family and may be passed on to our 17 year old son.
Finally, I've felt a noticeable degree of integrity and quality control went into the production of the 1988 Nissan Stanza as it was assembled in Japan. We own 2 other Nissan cars and my brother-in-law drives a 'trouble free' 1995 Nissan Maxima that was also built in Japan.
7th Apr 2001, 11:10
I have found the car to work very well. It is very old and I drive it about 150km every day. The only complaint I have is it does take the bumps rather hard. I find overall though it is a very tough car. Interesting to note that everyone mentions the passenger door being noisy. I thought It was just me.