1. Vehicle Overview & Specifications
The Corris Rivett is the main project car in My Winter Car, based on the real-world Ford Taunus TC1 (1971-1976 model years). Unlike My Summer Car's Satsuma, the Rivett must be purchased rather than being provided at the start, and represents a significantly more challenging build with over 200 individual parts.
Ford Taunus TC (1975) - The real-world inspiration for the Corris Rivett
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Base Vehicle |
Ford Taunus TC1 (1971-1976) |
| Engine Type |
2.0L SOHC Inline-4 (Ford Pinto TL20H) |
| Stock Power |
98 hp @ 5,500 RPM |
| Stock Torque |
155 Nm @ 3,700 RPM |
| Maximum Tuned Power |
~215 hp @ 8,000 RPM (without nitrous) |
| Drivetrain |
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| Transmission Options |
4-speed manual / 5-speed manual / 3-speed automatic |
| Rear Suspension |
4-link solid axle |
| Weight (approx) |
~1,000 kg (400 kg heavier than Satsuma) |
| Rev Limiter |
None (risk of over-revving) |
🚨 Critical Warning: No Rev Limiter
Unlike the Satsuma, the Rivett has no electronic rev limiter. Over-revving will cause catastrophic engine damage. This is especially dangerous with tuned engines. Always watch your tachometer and avoid "money shifting" (accidentally downshifting at high RPM).
2. How to Buy the Rivett
Purchasing the Corris Rivett is a multi-step process that many players initially struggle with. Follow these exact steps to successfully acquire your project car.
1Find the Advertisement Poster
Look for a car sale poster inside PSK (Teimo's shop) or at the gas station. The poster displays a phone number in the format: 08-609 553
2Make the Phone Call
Location: Use the phone in your apartment or parents' house
CRITICAL: Use your keyboard's numpad to dial: 08609553 (see controls guide if unfamiliar)
❌ Common Mistake
DO NOT type the dash (-). Entering "08-609 553" will cause the call to fail with a beeping error. Only use numbers: 08609553
3Listen to the Entire Conversation
After dialing, wait for the seller (the firewood delivery guy from My Summer Car) to finish talking. Do not hang up early - this will cancel the purchase. Wait until he hangs up automatically.
4Check Your Map
After the call completes successfully, a new map marker labeled "Car for sale" will appear. If no marker appears, the call failed - try again.
5Visit During Daytime
Use the Sorbett, Gifu, or Kekmet to drive to the seller's location. Important: Arrive during daylight hours - the seller won't complete the transaction at night.
6Complete the Purchase
Approach the seller to trigger dialogue. When he quotes the price (approximately 500 mk), walk up to him and pay. The exact price may vary slightly based on the random parts included.
✅ What You Receive
You will get:
- Bare Rivett body/chassis (disassembled)
- 10-12 random parts in randomized condition
- Random trim level (L, LX, SLX, or GT)
- Random manufacturing year (1971-1976)
- Random color and interior combination
Transportation Options
After purchase, you need to transport the Rivett to your build location. See our Vehicles Guide for detailed towing techniques:
- Kekmet (tractor with trailer): Most reliable option, slow but safe
- Gifu (flatbed truck): Can carry the chassis, faster but harder to control
- Parents' house vs Apartment: Parents' house has a garage with motor hoist, making assembly much easier
3. Parts Sources & Acquisition
Gathering all necessary parts is one of the most challenging aspects of the Rivett build. Unlike My Summer Car where most parts were lying around, you must actively source everything through multiple channels. For complete details, see our dedicated Parts Acquisition Guide.
Primary Parts Sources
📰 Parts Magazine (Kansalaisen Marketti)
Primary Source: This is your main supplier for most parts.
How to Order:
- Purchase the magazine at PSK (Teimo's shop)
- Open the magazine and find parts listings with phone numbers
- Call from your phone using the numpad (same method as buying Rivett - see buying guide)
- CRITICAL: Wait until the seller finishes talking before hanging up (common mistake - see phone troubleshooting)
- Parts arrive in approximately 2 days at PSK
- Check for post notification, then pick up parts
⚠️ Magazine Tips
- Parts are in used condition - quality varies
- Inventory changes weekly/bi-weekly
- Parts come in boxes via mail
- Hanging up early cancels the order
🔧 Fleetari's Repair Shop
Location: Loppe (town)
Operating Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00-16:00 (4:00 PM)
Specialization: New/NOS (New Old Stock) engine parts and performance components
For complete Fleetari shopping guide and pricing strategies, see Parts Acquisition Guide - Fleetari section.
Available Services:
- Engine parts sales (limited stock, restocks periodically)
- Suspension components
- Repair services (tire changes, painting, bodywork)
- Metal recycling (dispose old parts for money)
- Possible garage space rental (not confirmed in EA)
💡 Fleetari Shopping Tips
- Parts come in individual packages, then packed into shopping bags
- Stock is limited - buy when available
- NOS parts are more expensive but guaranteed quality
- Payment happens after services (not before like MSC)
- Fleetari keeps your keys during repairs
🏪 Flea Market (Kirpputori)
Location: Same building as inspection shop (previously vacant in MSC)
Owner: Run by a woman
Specialization: Random used parts, cosmetic items, rare finds
Features:
- Parts from different model years
- Non-essential wearable parts
- Fixed prices (no haggling)
- Inventory randomizes after items sell
- Selling: Rent a table to sell your extra parts
💰 Making Money at Flea Market
You can rent a sale table to sell unwanted parts or items. Payment occurs at the end of each week. Unsold items remain on your table.
Parts You Cannot Duplicate
The following parts are unique and cannot be purchased as spares:
- Engine Block
- Cylinder Head
- Steering Column
All other parts can be purchased in unlimited quantities (limited only by your budget and PC performance).
Strategic Parts Acquisition
| Part Category |
Best Source |
Priority |
| Engine internals (pistons, crank, cam) |
Parts Magazine / Fleetari |
High |
| Electrical (alternator, starter, battery) |
Fleetari (NOS recommended) |
High |
| Suspension (springs, shocks) |
Fleetari / Parts Magazine |
Medium |
| Body panels, trim, interior |
Flea Market |
Low |
| Performance parts (racing cam, dual carb) |
Fleetari / Magazine |
Medium |
💰 Budget Planning
Total estimated cost: 8,000-14,000 mk depending on parts condition choices. Need money fast? Check our Money Making Guide for delivery jobs (400-800 mk/run) and office work strategies.
4. VIN System & Trim Levels
Each Rivett has a unique Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate located in the engine bay. This system determines your car's factory specification and is critical for historical vehicle registration.
Understanding the VIN Plate
The VIN contains encoded information about:
- Manufacturing year (1971-1976)
- Trim level (L, LX, SLX, or GT)
- Factory options and equipment
- Original color and interior specification
- Engine and transmission variant
- Differential type (open or limited-slip)
🔍 VIN Decoder Tool
Visit the official Amistech website VIN decoder at www.amistech.com/mwc to decode your Rivett's VIN. The VIN resets with each new game save.
The Four Trim Levels
🔹 L Trim (Base Spec)
Characteristics: Entry-level economy model
- Basic black interior (most common)
- Standard steel wheels
- Manual brakes (no power assist)
- Basic gauge cluster (speedometer + fuel/temp)
- Open differential
- 4-speed manual transmission
- Single-barrel carburetor
🔹 LX Trim (Premium)
Characteristics: Mid-range comfort model
- Beige or woodgrain interior options
- Upgraded wheel options
- Power-assisted brakes possible
- Clock gauge option
- Better standard springs and shocks
- Chrome trim and badges
🔹 SLX Trim (Performance/Luxury)
Characteristics: High-end sport-luxury model
- Sport steering wheel
- Tachometer (7,000 RPM gauge)
- Additional instrumentation
- Stiffer suspension components
- Two-barrel carburetor (possible)
- Quick steering ratio option
- Special gear stick
⭐ GT Trim (Top Spec/Rare)
Characteristics: Ultimate performance variant
- Rarest trim level
- Red or blue interior (extremely rare colors)
- Sport alloy wheels or RS three-spokes
- Two-barrel carburetor (standard)
- Limited-slip differential
- Performance suspension (stiff springs)
- Full sport instrumentation
- Special GT rocker cover with Rivett branding
- Vinyl roof option
- Rear spoiler
Historical Vehicle Registration
If you restore the Rivett to match its factory VIN specification exactly, you can register it as a historical vehicle:
📜 Historical Registration Requirements
- Age Requirement: Car must be 30+ years old
- Game Timeline: Set in 1999, so only 1971-early 1974 models qualify
- Condition: Must match VIN factory specification
- Benefit: Longer inspection intervals
- Tip: Check manufacture date on VIN before starting restoration
Factory Color Options
The Rivett spawns with one of 20 different factory exterior colors and 4-5 interior colors:
- Common Interior: Black, Beige, Black with Brown Woodgrain
- Rare Interior: Red, Blue (GT trim only)
5. Assembly Order & Build Process
The Rivett assembly is more complex than the Satsuma due to the sheer number of parts (200+) and the need to source everything separately. While there's flexibility in build order, following a logical sequence prevents frustration.
⚠️ Before You Begin
- Choose your build location wisely: Parents' house has a garage (recommended)
- Organize parts: Group engine, suspension, body, electrical components
- Check VIN first: Understand your target specification
- Plan for winter: Cold starts are much harder - work in heated spaces (see cold start troubleshooting)
- New to car mechanics? Review our Beginner's Guide for basic controls and game mechanics first
Recommended Assembly Order
1Chassis & Suspension
Start with the foundation:
- Install front suspension (control arms, springs, shocks)
- Attach rear axle assembly (4-link suspension)
- Install coil springs (varies by trim - note spring rates)
- Mount steering column (unique part - cannot duplicate)
- Install steering rack and tie rods
- Attach brake components (calipers, lines, master cylinder)
Tip: Adjustable shocks can be tuned later. Different spring lengths available for ride height adjustment.
2Engine Assembly (Off-Car)
Build the engine separately on a stand or bench:
- Start with engine block (unique - check condition)
- Install crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons
- Attach oil pump (can fail - replaceable)
- Install cylinder head (unique part)
- Fit timing belt and tensioner
- Mount camshaft (single overhead cam)
- Install cam followers/lifters
- Attach alternator, starter motor
- Install water pump (failure point)
- Fit carburetor (single or dual-barrel)
- Add exhaust manifold
Cold Engine Warning: Never rev a cold engine! Engine damage occurs when oil hasn't circulated. Always warm up first.
3Drivetrain Installation
Install engine and transmission:
- Lower engine into engine bay
- Bolt engine to mounts
- Choose transmission (4-spd manual / 3-spd auto / 5-spd manual aftermarket)
- Install clutch assembly (cable-operated)
- Attach driveshaft to differential
- Connect exhaust system (stronger than Satsuma's)
4Fuel & Cooling Systems
- Install fuel tank (can be damaged by impacts)
- Connect fuel lines and filter
- Mount radiator (check hoses for cracks)
- Fill coolant and check for leaks
- Install fan belt (check tension)
5Electrical System
- Install battery (buy fresh from Teimo - 12V)
- Connect alternator wiring
- Wire starter motor
- Install fuse box
- Connect headlights, taillights, indicators
- Wire interior lights and switches
- Test all circuits before final assembly
6Wheels & Tires
- Choose wheel type (depends on trim/VIN)
- Install brake rotors and drums
- Mount wheels (steel or alloy - varies by trim)
- Use appropriate tire type for season
- Winter tires mandatory for snow conditions
7Body Panels & Interior
- Attach doors (heavy - may need help)
- Install hood and trunk lid
- Fit front and rear bumpers
- Install fenders and trim
- Mount seats (varies by trim)
- Install dashboard and gauges
- Fit interior panels and carpet
- Install steering wheel
8Final Checks
- Fill all fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid)
- Double-check all bolts (suspension critical)
- Test lights and horn
- Check tire pressure
- Verify battery connection
- Perform brake system bleed
✅ First Start Checklist
- Engine oil level correct
- Coolant filled (not frozen)
- Fuel in tank
- Battery charged
- Choke engaged (if cold)
- Clutch pedal depressed
- Don't rev immediately - let oil circulate
6. Engine Build & Tuning
The Rivett's 2.0L Ford Pinto TL20H engine offers significant tuning potential. Developer testing confirms properly built engines can reach approximately 215 hp @ 8,000 RPM without nitrous. Planning to race? See our Racing Guide for competition-specific tuning strategies.
Stock Engine Configuration
| Component |
Stock Spec |
Performance Option |
| Carburetor |
Single-barrel Weber (L trim) |
Dual-barrel Weber (GT trim / aftermarket) |
| Camshaft |
Mild street cam |
Racing cam (higher lift, longer duration) |
| Exhaust |
Stock manifold + muffler |
Headers + free-flow exhaust |
| Compression |
Stock pistons (~9:1) |
High-compression pistons |
| Ignition |
Distributor + points |
Electronic ignition (if available) |
Performance Build Guide
Stage 1: Bolt-On Improvements (120-140 hp)
- Dual-barrel carburetor: +15-20 hp, better throttle response
- Free-flow exhaust: Reduces backpressure, +10 hp
- Air filter upgrade: Better breathing
- Ignition timing optimization: Advance timing for power
Cost: Moderate | Difficulty: Easy | Reliability: High
Stage 2: Cam & Head Work (160-180 hp)
- Racing camshaft: Aggressive profile, higher RPM power
- Valve springs: Required for racing cam
- Port & polish head: Improved airflow (if available)
- Larger valves: Better breathing
Cost: High | Difficulty: Moderate | Reliability: Medium
Warning: Racing cam reduces low-end torque. Car will be harder to drive in snow.
Stage 3: Full Build (200-215 hp)
- High-compression pistons: Requires premium fuel
- Forged internals: Stronger rods and crank
- Lightened flywheel: Faster revving
- 5-speed transmission: Better ratio spread
- Limited-slip differential: Power delivery in corners
Cost: Very High | Difficulty: Hard | Reliability: Medium-Low
CRITICAL: No rev limiter! High-performance builds can easily exceed 8,000 RPM and destroy the engine. Install a tachometer and watch it religiously.
🏁 Racing Builds
Building for Ice Track or Rally Sprint competition? Check our Racing & Tuning Guide for safety equipment requirements, race-specific setups, and performance vs reliability trade-offs.
Tuning Tips
- Carburetor jetting: Richer mixture in winter (cold air denser)
- Spark timing: Advance for power, retard if pinging
- Valve adjustment: Check lash periodically
- Oil changes: Critical with racing builds (every 500-1000 km)
- Warm-up procedure: Always idle 2-3 minutes before driving
7. Maintenance & Common Issues
Regular maintenance is crucial for the Rivett, especially in harsh winter conditions. Unlike the Satsuma, many parts have actual wear and failure mechanics.
Regular Maintenance Schedule
| Interval |
Task |
Importance |
| Daily |
Check oil level, coolant, tire pressure |
Critical |
| Weekly |
Battery water level, brake fluid, lights |
High |
| 500 km |
Oil and filter change (racing builds) |
High |
| 1000 km |
Oil change (street builds), valve adjustment |
High |
| 2000 km |
Timing belt inspection, spark plugs |
Critical |
| 5000 km |
Timing belt replacement (mandatory) |
CRITICAL |
Common Failures & Solutions
🔴 Engine Won't Start (Cold Weather)
Symptoms: Engine cranks but won't fire, especially below -15°C
For complete cold start diagnosis, see Troubleshooting Guide - Car Won't Start section.
Solutions:
- Use full choke (pull choke knob all the way)
- Battery may be too cold - warm up battery indoors
- Block heater recommended for winter
- Check spark plugs aren't fouled
- Try ether starting spray (available at Teimo's)
🔴 Engine Overheating
Causes:
- Low coolant level
- Radiator leaking or clogged
- Water pump failure
- Fan belt broken or loose
- Thermostat stuck closed
Emergency: If temperature gauge reaches red, stop immediately. Continuing will warp the cylinder head (unique part!).
🔴 Electrical Failures
Common Issues:
- Alternator failure: Battery light on dash, dimming lights
- Starter motor: Clicking sound, no crank
- Blown fuses: Check fuse box first
- Corroded connections: Clean battery terminals
🔴 Brake Problems
Warning Signs:
- Soft pedal: Air in lines - bleed system
- Pulling to one side: Seized caliper or uneven pad wear
- Grinding noise: Pads worn to metal - replace immediately
- Brake light on: Low fluid or worn pads
Winter-Specific Issues
- Frozen coolant: Use proper antifreeze mixture (50/50)
- Icy roads: RWD Rivett very prone to spinning - use winter tires
- Battery drain: Cold weather reduces capacity - keep charged
- Door locks frozen: De-icer spray or heat key
- Windshield washer frozen: Use winter-grade fluid
8. Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Money-Saving Tips
Detailed money-making strategies in our Money Making Guide. Key tips for Rivett builders:
- Buy used parts from magazine: Much cheaper than Fleetari's NOS (see parts price comparison)
- Check flea market weekly: Rare finds at good prices
- Don't over-tune early: Racing parts expensive and reduce reliability
- Learn to do your own work: Fleetari's labor costs add up
- Keep extra parts: Starters, alternators, water pumps fail (common failures in troubleshooting guide)
Building Strategy
- Start simple: Get car running stock before modifications
- One system at a time: Easier to troubleshoot
- Label parts boxes: 200+ parts get confusing fast
- Test drive often: Catch problems early
- Save before risky work: Manual saves are your friend
Performance vs Reliability
| Build Type |
Power |
Reliability |
Best For |
| Stock |
98 hp |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Daily driving, beginners |
| Street |
130-150 hp |
⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Balanced performance |
| Sport |
170-190 hp |
⭐⭐⭐ |
Track days, rally |
| Race |
200-215 hp |
⭐⭐ |
Competition only |
Troubleshooting Quick Reference
Car won't crank:
- Dead battery → Charge or replace
- Starter click → Starter motor failed
- No sound → Check battery connections
Engine cranks but won't start:
- Check fuel in tank
- Pull choke if cold
- Verify spark (pull plug, check for spark)
- Carburetor may be flooded - wait 5 minutes
Engine starts then dies:
- Release choke gradually as engine warms
- Fuel filter may be clogged
- Air leak in intake
💡 Expert Advice
"The Rivett rewards patience. Take your time sourcing quality parts, follow the VIN specification, and don't rush the build. A well-maintained Rivett is one of the most satisfying builds in the game." - Experienced MWC Players
📌 Content Version Notice
This guide is based on: My Winter Car Early Access (Released December 29, 2025)
Last Updated: December 30, 2025
Game is in active development. Some mechanics, part names, or acquisition methods may change in future updates. Always verify critical information against current in-game data.