Faults:

At 130,000 miles, I had to replace the motor because I run the motor to hell and back twice.

I replaced the clutch with an ACT clutch because it was actually cheaper.

The fuel meter went out and it was stuck at full tank, but I did not really notice it because the car gets great gas mileage.

General Comments:

That Z-Max stuff works great!

The only thing that I really did to the car is change the 13 inch rims to 15 inch racing harts for that better handling.

It is speed hungry and it packs a punch off the line, but it lacks the top end acceleration badly.

Could use a limited slip differential.

Faults:

The engine blew at 110000 miles. I rescued an engine from a Celica GT in a junkyard with 187000 miles on it and the engine runs great.

I have had some problems with the knock pin falling out on the camshaft timing gear.

Rust around the rear wheels.

The transmission shifter binds.

General Comments:

The car gets great gas mileage for the engine size and horsepower.

The car uses the whole speedometer and handles like it wants to go that fast.

Faults:

The previous owner replaced the engine (3S-FE; 2.0 litre, 4-cylinder, DOHC) at 144,000 miles, reasons unknown. The new engine is smooth and reasonably powerful, due to the relatively low weight of the car. The only complaint is the transmission, which is a 4-speed automatic with electronic overdrive. The driver has to remember to disable the overdrive at each stop, otherwise the overdrive will engage below 40 MPH, and, at that speed in top gear the engine is turning less than 2,000 RPM. This engine performs best in the 2,000-3,000 RPM range. So long as the driver keeps the engine above 2,000 RPM, the car is an absolute delight to drive. After three years of ownership I continue to be impressed with Toyota's engineering, especially with the emphasis on ease of access to the oil filter and fluid top-off locations. Toyota reliability is hard to beat; this car is now thirteen years old and runs as well as a vehicle with many fewer miles. Parts are pretty easy to find, and parts prices are reasonable. The convertible top is easy to maintain, and the electric retraction system is well-engineered.

General Comments:

The driver's seat-back angle is adjustable; even so, at its most upright position, it reclines too much for me. The solution is a small pillow in the lower back area.

Faults:

Radiator blew after 230,000 Km, it was the original, not bad for an 11 year old radiator.

Exhaust, we have been through two complete exhaust systems in five years. Probable cause being the cat. and the short distances run, water build-up in the end pipe and rust soon forms. Stainless steel unit recommended.

General Comments:

We have had this car for five years now, it has never let us down. Starts first time every time, we have put 155.000 km on the clock and used the car as a workhorse.

Fantastic looks and reliability. Still a head turner.

Toyota original parts are (in the UK) an absolute rip-off. Almost double the price as those of other European countries.

Faults:

Starter motor contacts worn out, found an old boy who had his own workshop on the side of his house who replaced them for a tenner!

The front wheel arches are rusting.

Water leak (rain water that is), traced to the front windscreen (top edge leaking), removed the window trim and filled with sealant, replaced the trim, now fine.

Can flood quite easily when hot starting.

General Comments:

Nice looking car for the money (£250).

White paint-work cleans up a treat.

At 153000, still no rattles, and minimum engine noise.

Very fast and economical, from empty only takes £35 worth of petrol! This will last for approx. 350 miles.

Plenty of leg room in the front if you have no rear passengers! Huge boot for a semi sports car.