1996 Pontiac Firefly 1.3 4 cylinder from North America
Summary:
A peppy, reliable, economical car
Faults:
Radiator at 260k. ($60)
Replaced front ball joint as it got weak around 260k. $130.
All new brakes/lines/e-brake cables at 265k. -$100.
New Volt performance muffler when old one fell off around 270k. -$90.
1.0 Engine replaced as it was smoking, replaced with a 1995 4 cyl 1.3l at 265k, WHAT A DIFFERENCE.- $150 + an axle ($75)
Slight body work to wheel wells, rust starting to come through, fixed at home.
Rear bumper fell off in an accident around 275k, fixed easily at home.
General Comments:
I love my Firefly. Since I replaced the old 1.0 3 cylinder with a 1.3 4 cylinder from a four-door firefly, it has made a significant difference in power and speed. This car keeps up with newer Cavaliers, Sunfires, etc. I've actually been side by side with a z24 with the speedo buried. It still handled like a dream.
Apart from regular maintenance, this car has been pretty cheap to keep on the road.
I have driven up to 500 kilometers in a day, and the car never heated up, and only spend $20 in gas.
I wouldn't recommend an automatic 3 cylinder, the standard works excellent. The car will squeal in second gear.
Overall the seats are relatively comfortable, but cruise control would be nice for long trips. The back seat is surprisingly more comfortable than my old mustang, and the hatchback is big enough with the seats folded down I moved all of my belongings in it from my old house to my new one. that's 2 cat carriers, my whole wardrobe, my computer and monitor and 3 boxes full of books.
The radio setup is odd, with my CD player installed I cannot fit a large cup in my cup holder.
This car is a blast in the winter, and it will go through almost anything.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 11th September, 2006
8th Dec 2006, 01:09
If you can find a factory sound system, replace your after-market radio and you'll get your large cup in the holder. Mine is the original Delco AM/FM/CD and still works cherry. 800,000km 95 Firefly SE.