Faults:
Replaced the R-4 AC compressor at 105k along with the lines. No more problems with the AC for the next 95k miles.
Rocker cover gaskets leaked and caused oil leakage, that resulted in smoking and oil usage (very difficult to replace).
Poor starter design. Starter was rebuilt twice and was difficult to access.
Vehicle frame rusted through between the back bumper and the rear wheels causing the vehicle to be junked (Very SAD day!).
General Comments:
By far the nicest car I have owned in 30 years of driving.
Best combination of room, acceleration, handling, ride and gas mileage of any vehicle that I've owned.
Extremely comfortable seats (loose pillow velour optional seating) allowed drives of 1200+ miles per day to be easily accomplished.
Great winter traction for a RWD car (limited slip axle). Regularly came out of unplowed parking lots past stuck FWD vehicles.
Decent gas mileage for a 3900# car. From 15mpg local up to 24mpg trip.
Car was raced in SCCA Solo2 (handling courses) against Camaros and Mustangs with AMAZING success locally (F41 handling option).
13th Sep 2006, 09:34
My family had an 83 Pontiac. She was our baby. and you know with the back frame rusting, it could be repaired. We have had it done numerous times. now the old girl died prematurely. my great aunt parked it within a field.. and she rusted all to hell. A Very sad day.. The car I learned to drive in... if you can drive a big cream puff like that.. you can drive anything...haha.