BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 5th May 2003
THE forgotten Nissan NX Coupe, based on the '91-'95 N14 Pulsar and built in Japan, has two-plus-two accommodation and a neat targa top with detachable glass panels. The powerful and refined 105kW 2.0-litre engine endows the Nissan excellent performance. Standard equipment includes power steering.
TOYOTA PASEO 2D COUPE (1993-1996)
THIS is no sports car, being based on a Starlet-like model unseen here. So its front-drive platform is more shopping-car than driver's delight, as is a 74kW 1.5 engine. All show and not much go, the Paseo is nothing more than a less practical light car wearing reasonably sporty clothes. Not for enthusiasts.
HONDA CRX 2D COUPE (1987-1992)
LATE and lamented, the CRX Mk2 was in fact the first to arrive locally. Its lightweight build, focussed two-seater packaging, and sporty performance from a 94kW 1.6-litre DOHC engine were matched by excellent handling and extremely smart styling. From 1989 power steering was standard. A corker and a classic.
HYUNDAI S 2D COUPE (1991-1996)
THIS makes the Paseo seem special. Based on the awful X2 Excel, the cheapo GLS does have generous equipment levels and some space for four adults, but that's it. Its 62kW 1.5 engine is rough, the handling and ride unpleasant and the quality sorely lacking. The turbo's fun though, in an amusingly bad way.