1989 Oldsmobile Toronado Trofeo 3800 from North America
Summary:
There is a saying; "GM cars run like crap longer than most cars run at all"
Faults:
The engine and transmission used in this and many other GM cars are well recognized as being reliable. Never had a problem with either. It was everything else.
2 catalytic converters.
Fuel pump.
Had a hard start problem in cold weather; over time this somehow corrected itself.
AC went out.
Digital dash readout including mileage and all gauges quit working at around 160k.
Headlight covers broke off.
Both exhaust tips broke off.
Interior was falling apart early in the car's life.
Brakes always pulsated, even with new rotors. Brakes were too small for a car this size.
Few other electrical woes as these cars used 2 computers.
General Comments:
Granted this was a brand new company car that was given to me as a personal car after its time and usage were replaced; I never really cared for this generation downsized E body cars compared to their larger V8 predecessors.
The car did ride and handle very well and the interior comfort and luxury amenities were nice.
Received it as brand new in 1989, and drove it for personal use years later until 1996, then gave it to a family member who was in need of a vehicle and they drove it til 2001.
Despite all the problems it never actually broke down or left anyone stranded. The 3800 V6 is the best V6 ever produced. There was no telling the final mileage due to the gauge cluster going out, but it was for sure over 220k. The car was driven everywhere its whole life in good and bad condition.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 25th November, 2021