Faults:
I was fortunate enough to have all records of this vehicle when I purchased it.
Timing belt, crankshaft and camshaft seals, water pump at 92,000 miles.
Transmission rebuilt, new clutch and throw out bearing at 96,000 miles.
Water pump at 106,000 miles.
Front rotors replaced at 115,000 miles.
Air conditioning retrofitted to newer type R-134 at 120,000 miles. Blows cool, but not cold. The air conditioning works better than leaving the windows open on a 90 plus degree day.
Windshield washer pump button is broken.
Fuel door spring is broken, makes for an interesting site at the gas station trying to get it open.
Crankshaft seal currently leaking again, will replace timing belt and seals again.
General Comments:
I drive about 100 miles per day round trip, the fuel usage on this type of car is why I purchased it. Plus, Toyota's reputation of having vehicles and engines that consistently run above 200,000 miles is another factor.
Has a great fun factor!! Sporty, quick, and responsive!!
The manual transmission feels lose, have driven other similar vehicles that had a much nicer feel when shifting.
Rear seat space is tiny, good for two small kids, but not on a longer road trip.
When I purchased this car, I had to drive it home, about 1100 miles. I averaged 38 miles to the gallon with the air conditioning on full blast and at speeds averaging 75-80 miles per hour for the trip. Never had a problem, other than oil leaking from the bad crankshaft seal.
I wished the Toyota Engineer's could have found a way to add another 5 gallons of fuel capacity to the tank.
I am a big guy, about 280 pounds, but only 5'11". I also have had a history of severe back pain. This car is actually pretty comfortable for me to drive! The 1100 mile trip I mentioned above was only done with three stops, were it not for needing fuel, I might have made it on one stop:-)