lain Sherriff, Editor, drives a Chrysler Alpine S1600...
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This car probably has had more problems than all the other CM staff cars put together. The eventual list of warranty complaints was a long one and included:
a. Driver's demister did not operate; b. None of the warning
lights on the dash operated with the exception of
the hazard warning; c. Rear screen heater did not work; d. At sustained speeds over 60mph, the ignition key became unbearably hot; e. The air filter assembly kept falling apart; f. Severe clutch squeal.
Although most of the initial faults with the car have been rectified, too many things keep falling off. The latest incident occurred at 15,000 miles when the back of the driver's seat collapsed. As it happened, no accident resulted, but it could well have done.
Apart from the brake pads, which have worn quickly, the. Alpine's general replacement parts record has been quite good. The problems. have all centred around things falling off.
The fuel consumption has averaged around 32mpg with a nil oil consumption between services. For a total mileage of 16,000 miles, no new tyres have been required. When the car is running, I haven't had a better one. I would certainly take another because I like the model and I cannot believe that a replacement could be as bad. I refuse to accept that the Alpine could be such a bad car as my experiences have indicated and still win a Car of the Year award.
I like the way the car motors. It is quiet and there is little wind noise at speed. I'm not conscious of any mechanical noise.
I find it comfortable and even after a 1,200-mile round trip in three days I do not experience any fatigue.
It is easy to handle and very manoeuvrable for parking. The glove box is not particularly deep, but I have found it quite adequate for my needs. On the other hand, two books of maps on the parcel shelf and it's full.
On the whole, I would not have thought that the Alpine was suitable as a general fleet car. It must be considered as dual-purpose family /fleet car.
From my experience with th Alpine, I can only assume that have got the ultimate "Frida Car". I wonder if it was the la: car built in France befor assembly started in the UK?