1987 Oldsmobile Ciera 3.8 from North America
Summary:
Cramped, but solid, reliable, quick, and economical
Faults:
Struts/shocks wore out.
Power steering rack wore out.
Slight fuel pump noise since 44,000.
Headliner sag.
Cruise will kick in on its own if switch is left on.
General Comments:
Fastest thing I've had in decades, plenty of passing power. According to the muffler shop, it has the high-performance exhaust. The engine, a 3800, is flawless.
30 miles per gallon highway, 24 local on E-10 (89 octane gasohol, 10% ethanol).
Handling and stability okay with the new struts and shocks, not nearly as good as that of my '88 Sable, but the Ciera is a much better car overall.
Worst part of the car is the front seats. Driver's seat is power front-back, up-down and tilt, but the seat back does not recline independently. I'm 6'4" and I can't really get comfortable. Passenger seat is non-power with no recline. Would like very much to have 6-way power seats that also recline (not just tilt).
My wife's uncle (on Oldsmobile Dealership mechanic) bought the car new, and sold it to my mother-in-law at 32,000. I have maintained it since that time. Oil consumption is neglible. Drove it from Kansas to San Jose California and back two years ago, averaged 29.6 for mileage. That includes the 75mph cruising across Arizona and New Mexico.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 6th September, 2005