BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 7th May 2003
BUILT by Suzuki, it was superior to the Spanish-built SB that replaced it. Unique styling provided good interior space. The 1.3-litre engine put out reasonable performance and excellent fuel economy, but today it all feels hard riding and noisy. Still, it's reliable and durable.
DAIHATSU CHARADE 5D HATCHBACK (1983-1999)
THE Charade is one of the better looking hatchbacks of its time, with a reputation for reliability and economy. The CS has a 1.3-litre, 16-valve, fuel-injected engine putting out a strong 66kW. Performance is much better with a five-speed manual than the three-speed automatic.
MAZDA 121 4D SEDAN (1990-1997)
THE unusually styled four-door Mazda 121 has a combination of interior space, equipment, performance and road manners which make it excellent value for money. The fuel-injected, 1.3-litre, 16-valve engine offers good fuel economy and reasonable performance. It's the best car here by a fair margin.
TOYOTA COROLLA 5D HATCHBACK (1989-1992)
THE Corolla, also sold as Holden Nova, has the traditional Toyota qualities of reliability and long life which make it one of the most popular hatchbacks. Overhead camshaft, 1.4-litre, 16-valve engine provides OK performance and economy. In this company comfort and refinement attributes are high.