Toyota Paseo
ENGINE 1497cc/4-cyl/DOHC POWER 100bhp@6400rpm TORQUE 91lb ft@3200rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 125mph 0-60MPH 10.3sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 22-30mpg TRANSMISSION FWD, five-speed manual MoT 12 months from sale ODOMETER 41,465 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The car does not hesitate or make any unpleasant noises upon start-up or when running and the motor seems healthy. The Paseo is surprisingly quick, its twin-cam engine responsive and eager to rev. Handling is positive and it grips well in the corners. Steering is fluid and direct – the car drives exactly where you point it. The car handles well and there is no visual evidence of any issues with any of the suspension components. The brakes work well with no drama, but there’s a slight scraping noise from the nearside front wheel under braking. The discs look to be in good condition, but will be replaced prior to sale, along with the pads.
BODYWORK CHECK
The paint is fresh and there are no battle scars, stone chips or scratches. The alloy wheels are in very good condition having not been kerbed or scuffed, and all Firestone tyres (including the spare) are in healthy condition. Being the Si model, the car comes fitted with a rear spoiler, which does give a slightly more sporty look and this too is free from damage and is correctly fitted. Looking underneath the car reveals no signs of accident damage or repair and there is no corrosion to speak of. The car also comes with a removable glass sunroof, which is flawless and leak-free.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The upholstery is typical snazzy Nineties fare, but it is very well presented and shows little sign of wear. The swathes of grey plastic are free from damage and in good condition, the only blemish being a worn ashtray in the centre console – find a replacement if you can! The carpets don’t look or smell as though they have suffered from any water ingress and the car is fitted with an aftermarket Sony stereo head unit, although purists would probably want to source an original replacement. All of the electrics and switches work as intended and the gauges display the correct information to the driver.
UNDER THE BONNET
The area under the bonnet is clean and tidy and the engine appears honest. The engine and bay haven’t been steam-cleaned to within an inch of their lives, just well maintained. The engine does not leak any fluids or smoke and a quick inspection reveals levels are all correct. The exhaust does have a slight leak around the rear section, but a full new system will be fitted before the car is sold.
THE CCW VIEW
A cheap used buy and a burgeoning classic with that bullet-proof Toyota reliability and spirited, agile handling. Having covered so few miles, this Paseo represents a bit of a bargain but you also get a certain air of exclusivity because there are fewer than 150 Sis currently out on the roads, so it’s unlikely that you’ll ever see another one.