Faults:

Far too much to mention here. But most were the typical items that fail and need replaced as you would expect from any car over many years and miles. I'm fairly certain none of the brakes, suspension, or exhaust components are original - most have been replaced bit by bit over the years. Alternator replace twice, and battery has been replaced a few times as a precaution. It has never broken down.

Engine and transmission are original and solid however. Testament to Toyota for longevity, and myself for not missing a service or belt change and looking after and driving the car correctly. Original clutch as well, though there is a bit of a judder now on engagement.

Interior has a lot of fade and wear, but is in general good condition. If I am being really picky, the cigarette lighter socket no longer works, driver's seat is a bit collapsed and has lost some support, and the wing mirrors adjuster is broken passenger side. Sunroof works but is very slow to move. Exterior has paint fade and rust starting at rear boot corner and front wing/arch. Again, nothing out of the ordinary for a 28 year old car. It gets washed every other week. MOT inspection has never had any advisories for under chassis rust, so I know the car is in good order and the surface rust I can see will require a purely cosmetic repair if I really want to.

General Comments:

I have had this Carina a long time. Probably pound for pound the best car I have ever had. Value for money will never be repeated in any other car. Cheap to run, the 1.6 petrol engine gets you a solid 40 mpg, but it is not very fast. Servicing and repairs have been reasonable over the years.

The car looks as dull as hell but I like it. Wheel trims, silvery blue color, looks very 1990's. Inside is blue as well, a bit dull, but comfortable. "XLi" trim is a special edition apparently, X meaning "EXpress" but the cars equipment level is similar to a GLi model. It does have electric windows all round and is comfortable. Very basic by today's standards but that is all I need in a car. Very spacious also. The car is actually called a Carina "E" here in the UK, with the E standing for Europe.

It is not bad to drive, handles very well, ride is a little firm. Good vision all round. Easy to drive and park.

At the end of the day it is 28 years old and approaching 200,000 miles and will not last forever, but I get the feeling it could last many more years and miles if I wanted it to. I am going to miss when cars were this simple and reliable. What should I replace it with? Probably a more modern Toyota Avensis, and I hope it lasts just as long.

Faults:

Had to replace the tires.

Door light comes on at times while driving, which can be a problem setting the alarm as alarm goes off by itself occasionally.

Odd light bulb to be changed.

General Comments:

Ultra reliable, starts first time under any circumstances.

Well engineered with durable parts and logical engine compartment.

Good fuel consumption if driven under 3000 rpm.

Comfortable and quiet inside, not flashy, but big enough to carry 4 men, C.D. player fitted as standard always handy.

Moves if driven hard and the 2.0L engine loves it, a dark horse and seriously under rated!