Smack wrote:Well I'm glad you came to your senses. I've never actually owned one but I've always liked them. I'm a big Japanese car enthusiast and plan to pick one up when the right one comes along. Did you find much difference in the 1.6 and 1.8?
There's a slight difference in torque between the 1.6 and 1.8 but there's not a massive difference between the two cars. Now, be careful when it comes to Mk1 1.6 cars as the later Mk1 1600 engine had only 90 bhp. The earlier 1.6, such as mine, put out 115 bhp.
The 1.8 puts out around 130 bhp. However, the 1.8 car had more bracing compared to the 1.6 and as a result, is slightly heavier. Some people prefer the revvy nature of the 1.6. Also, the 1.8 is 1830cc so you'll be paying 1.9 motor tax !
To sum, up both engines are fine and, having had two of each, I would find it hard to chose between the two. But I would avoid the later 90 bhp 1.6. engine.
When it comes to Mk1's, I personally prefer 1994 and earlier examples because of their interiors. That is just a personal preference though. Other than that, buy on condition !