Toyota Tercel vs. Honda Civic

Original and only owner of a 91 Civic here. I am looking for either a beater Civic or beater Tercel for a friend trying to save on gas.

Any comments on the maintenance requirements for, say, a 91 Tercel? How is it to change the timing belt? Any known "Achille's Heels" for the Tercel?

Reply to
Elle
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Yeah...dead cylinders/valves/rings. These cars (Tercel) have a congenital defect in, IIRC the rings. If you buy one, buy it cheap, esp if it's burning oil.

They will run for a long time with this condition, but depending on emissions regulations where you live it may not pass emissions testing. If you have a good mechanic that doesn't have a boat to pay for you might get the job done inexpensively.

Hondas are all interference engines, and the belt needs to be replaced on a regular basis; for that vintage I believe 60,000 miles, but try to find an owner's manual online for the actual recommendation.

Reply to
Hach

Just wondering if looking for a beater Civic, then why a Tercel instead of (the corresponding) Corolla?

Cathy

Reply to
Cathy F.

"Cathy F." wrote

For at least the years around 1990, the Tercel has a slightly smaller engine displacement than the Corolla, which translates to greater fuel economy.

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confirms.

Rough impression (too lazy to confirm for a lot of years):

Civics run 1.5L and 1.6L. Tercels are mostly or all 1.5L. Corollas, 1.6L.

Thanks for the input, Hachiroku.

Reply to
Elle

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