Post by needshelpI am in the market for a 93-94 geo metro xfi, but I am unsure of the
difference between the xfi 2 dr hatchback, and the regular 2 dr
hatchback. Can anyone help me, are there any visual clues, or VIN
number differences??
The 5th letter in the VIN is different. Most Geo Metros are MR
whereas the 4th and 5th VIN on an XFI is MS. About 90% of the metros
you see will probably be MR's...its tough to find an xfi
The xfi was the "very base model"...no A/C. no radio, only
manual/standard transmission, and no extras like tachometer, etc. (for
the record, the xfi can accomodate these features if someone wishes to
add them in the future...the proper wiring and connectors can be found
throughout the car).
The xfi engine and transmission were also solely dedicated towards
fuel efficiency. The xfi 1.0 liter 3 cylinder engine has one less
compression ring than the regular model, I suppose this was done to
decrease friction. The overdrive gear ratio is also lower than the
other models.
After 1994 Geo decided it was no longer worth their while to make
different engines and transmissions for the XFI. The "fuel efficient
champ" status was no longer cost-effective, therefore they removed the
xfi from the metro lineup. The base models from then on were standard
engines, and from some drivers' opinions not nearly as good nor
reliable as the xfi engines.
The xfi engines are also extremely efficient at removing heat. Some
stories are that people have driven 5 miles or more with a broken
water pump / serpentine belt and the temp gauge never even flinched.
The only thing that stopped them was a dead battery because of the
fuel pump (from losing the alternator pulley on the same belt). This
engine can _almost_ be air-cooled, especially in winter weather.
If you want more info, go to the following yahoo group:
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/metroandswiftclub/
Dan