Toyota Celica Hatchback GT-Four 4WD 3d (1988/F) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
A lot of car for not much money. Good all-round equipment. A very solid car to drive.
Costs
Not cheap at all to run. If you pick up a dog, expect to pay top dollar for parts, just like I did. Bugger. I'd buy another one, because I now know what to look for. FSH recommended!
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On the road
Driving
I'm giving it a 5 because mine's been fitted with fast road suspension, wheels and hooj discs. Bridgestones are fabulous on this car!
Performance
I've owned an import GT-R and in standard trim, the GT4 wasn't that much quicker. Get it derestricted to pull 1 bar instead of the pathetic 0.5 bar in standard trim for endless smiles!
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Living with it
Reliability
Toyota, overall, if maintaned well are very reliabe cars. To achieve this, they need to be pampered and well looked after. If buying a GT4, make sure it's been owned by an enthusiast.
Image
Complete mustard. Everywhere I go, people stare. Definitely a feel-good factor. Toyota got this one spot-on back in the '90s. Take the limelight away by parking next to modern machinery at car meets.
Comfort
Mine's lowered, thus runs a harsher ride. My lower back tends to ache on 50+ mile runs. Left in standard trim, expect it to be much easier on the back. Could do with the lumbar support from GT-R.
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Security and Service
Security
Average. Needs Cat 1 or 2 immobiliser and decent alarm such as Meta or Clifford. Needed for peace of mind really.
Service
I've found with the GT4, Toyota dealerships aren't that cluded up with the common problems associated with this car.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Turbo replaced at 130k miles, alternator 132k (£385 new), various hoses, dizzy cap (£65) and top-end decoke.
Other
ABS sensors are prone to go (£100+ each). Rear diff cusion goes (£100) and aerial stops working (£180).
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes