1990 Long-Term Retrospective | Nostalgic Review – Video

1990 Long-Term Retrospective | Nostalgic Review – Video

1990 Long Term Update | Retro Review: Reviving Nostalgia with Classic Cars

Step back in time to the exciting automotive landscape of 1990 as MotorWeek brings you a captivating long-term update. In our latest episode, originally aired on May 19, 1990, we take a closer look at a lineup of vehicles that were not just cars but companions for the road: the Pontiac Grand Prix SE, Subaru Justy ECVT, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Chevrolet Lumina APV, and the Ford Explorer.

Join us as we share the experiences and performance of these vehicles after a year of faithful service.

Highlights from Each Vehicle:

  1. Pontiac Grand Prix SE: Our time with the Grand Prix was a remarkable journey of reliability. After 26,000 miles, it showed seamless acceleration and minimal wear, with a cost of operation at just 5.9 cents per mile. Despite minor issues with a sunroof and an inflatable seat bladder, its robust performance and classic styling made it a standout in our fleet.

  2. Subaru Justy ECVT: Known for its incredible fuel efficiency, the Justy impressively averaged 37.4 MPG over 11,000 miles, making its operating cost a mere 4 cents per mile. While it may lack luxury, its practical performance in daily commuting is undeniable.

  3. Mazda MX-5 Miata: The Miata remains a joy to drive. With an operating cost of 4.7 cents per mile and nearly 29 MPG, it blends thrill with affordability. However, continued demand means its driver’s seat fabric is showing signs of wear—an indicator of its popularity.

  4. Chevrolet Lumina APV: Having logged 5,800 miles in just a month, the Lumina APV showcases its aerodynamics with an impressive 21.3 MPG. Flexibility in its removable seats is a highlight, offset by challenges with its sliding side door.

  5. Ford Explorer: New to our long-term collection, the Explorer promises to be an exciting addition as we look forward to testing its performance in upcoming updates.

Each vehicle holds its own stories of the road, presenting a picture of automotive evolution in the early ’90s. Tune in for an engaging trip down memory lane and discover how these classics stood the test of time.

Support MotorWeek and help us keep the nostalgia alive by donating to our station. Don’t forget to check local PBS listings for air dates or download our free app for full episodes and updates. Follow us on social media for the latest news and join our community of car enthusiasts!

Rev up your engines and enjoy the ride!

Watch the video by MotorWeek

Video “1990 Long Term Update | Retro Review” was uploaded on 10/16/2025 to Youtube Channel MotorWeek