Nissan Primera Saloon (1996 - 1999) 1.6 16V GX 4d (AC) (1998/R) Owner Review
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
Nothing really, although I don't care what anyone says; it is so much better looking than the old Mondeo and Vectra - especially in this booted format and dark blue metallic paint.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They all think it was a great buy for £1,400 - a lot of car for the money (Feb 2006).
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes - but see below
What are you likely to buy next?
Maybe next year I will get a 51 plate Nissan Primera 2.0 Sport!
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£1,400
When did you buy the car?
February 2006
Did you get a good deal and why?
Private sale - bargains everywhere if your careful. Car came with full history, 10 months MOT and 8 months tax. Only done 52,500 miles. Can't grumble for £1,400!!
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Cheap as chips, solid performer in most areas and history of reliability. Its also British built.
What was the dealer like?
N/A
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Drove a Citroen C4 and new Fiat Bravo while on holiday and they rolled more than the Nissan round bends and the steering was far less communicative. The Primera is truly a good car to drive as it also has a good manual box, feel-some clutch action and well placed controls. Its a typical Nissan with the engine - take it above 3500RPM and it will take off. Keeps up with the latest generation big family cars which output approx. 130bhp.
What's it like to park?
Poor turning circle and a boot - prevents first class parking every time!
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
In three years and 32,000 miles (now 84,500 miles) I have only replaced wear and tear items. These were: rear section of exhaust (x2 - 1st Kwik Fit rubbish), brake pads, tyres, 3 bulbs, rear brake pipes, wiper blades, 2 CV joints and a battery. The engine never uses oil and benefits from chain driven cams (no more annoying belt changes!).
What's most practical about your car?
Big boot but poor-ish access for long bulky items due to small-ish aperture when seats are folded. Roomy in the front and back.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
None, really. Driving is better without distractions anyway
