Another of our favorites: 1991 Suzuki Swift GT

Here we have the hot rod version of the Geo Metro. Sounds crazy, eh? Well, let’s not forget that the Metro was really a Suzuki Swift/Cultus and let’s also not forget that there was a cool turbocharged version of the prior generation Swift/Chevy Sprint. As we noted in a prior post, this car was initially launched as the Swift GTI, but VW threatened Suzuki over the GTI name, and the I was dropped.

The GTI/GT featured a 1.3L DOHC I4 with about 100HP vs. the base engine’s 70-ish HP. These has suspension upgrades, four-wheel disc brakes and a cool styling package that has aged well. These don’t come up often, and we’re tempted when they do. This one’s not perfect, but appears to be very clean and well looked after by a seller who claims to be a Ferrari mechanic.

Click for eBay adOakland, CA
$1,505.25 with 23 bids and reserve not met
Posted by CG
Update: SOLD for $2,550 with no fewer than 40 bids. We think that’s a deal.

Ad text:

Alright ! An unmolested original California registered Swift GT. With original black paint ! Super cool. Err, well, not cool for me as I don’t want to sell it.

I’ve had it ten years, but Girlfriend just moved in with four dogs & three cars. I am already beyond maxed on parking with my neighbors ( OK, I’ve got a car habit ) & currently at 11 cars with parking for five I have to start selling off the fleet.

Bought it from a Med Student who’s Dad gave it to him & Called it “The Japanese mini cooper ” Kid didn’t know what a mini was, & when we test drove he short shifted at 3100. Criminal behavior for this little engine that starts pulling nicely at 3850. I have been polite to it as I am a Ferrari Mechanic by trade, & I don’t thrash machinery. Sometimes garaged, sometimes outside, it is the newest car I have ever owned & stone reliable. Frisking about I get a steady 30 mpg, & it has been my go to car when I need to be on time with no excuses.

What’s wrong ? not much, glad you asked.

The clear coat is lifting on the roof, I color matched delfleet essentials for it but have been too busy to shoot it. The muffler has a leak in the mid section.

Brand new windshield last year, but an un named person cranked the defrost on a cold day & it cracked a bit by the vent, darn it ! Rear hatch struts soggy, New ones on order. I’ll have to check if the drivers door lock works. I’ve never locked the car since the day I have owned it but I recall it was busted when I bought it. Right front fender was replaced when Kid had a parking lot incident & the paint there is kinda flat. No frame damage, tracks true & straight. Fender was just bolted on instead of fixing old one.

What else can I say: Runs well, original, not modified. New clutch & transmission synchros about 3k ago, fresh brakes, good tires, Just a nice turn key Cult Classic.

Oh yeah: Metros have chronic drivers’ window problems. I was checking this one out when I was doing the photos today, & it shattered when being wound up. Bother. I’ll be replacing that before it is sold. fyi.

Currently California registered until July 2014, clean title.

Oh, want to spend more money ? Buy my rusty Lancia Fulvia coupe for 12.5……..

Thanks for looking.