I'm thinking of picking one up. There'* one for sale at this wannabe car dealership around here, but the front end is smashed up. Needs a new bumper and hood, possibly new fenders. I could probably get it really cheap, I was just wondering, what can all be done to these? Is there any hope in making it decently quick? What about durability? Common problems?

what year, and sub-model? LE, SE or SSE? i have owned 2 1990 SSE'* and i have owned on 92 SSEi, and liked the 90 better. common problems would have to be the alternators, the windshield stripping on the top, and the instument clusters on the SSE'*. but i wouldnt ever trade my 90 for a 92+ unless is was a SUPER deal...

Devon

I own an 89 and I love it. These 3800 engines are just about unstoppable. As for durabilty. Mine has 214,000 and it gets better with every mile.

My 89 SE was great...had mechanical issues related to all old cars, but it was quick as a cat and fun to drive...looked good too

Never owned an 87-91, but from what I've seen here, I wouldn't hesitate.

HOWEVER, all good car-buying skills apply. These guys can tell you specifics to look for.

I owned a '91 and beat the life out of it and it still put out close to 170k miles. But the last 25k miles or so the 2 of the main bearings started to go bad. Only had about 5 lbs of oil pressure and it still ran good on the expressway(75 miles one way doing 90) & all the times we get caught in the snow drifts trying to park into our apt.'* garage. Definently a strong built motor.

I would not hesitate for a second- I had an 89 SSE for four years, and when everything finally went- it had 438k on it. Amazing engines. I agree with Devon- I would not trade my 91 for anything newer, unless a 2004 GXP.
Even then I'd store the 91'.