MAZDA 626 4D SEDAN (1987-1991)
GUTSY 2.2-litre, 12-valve engine with five-speed manual or four- speed auto. Central locking, power steering, power windows standard. Rear seat room is restricted. Check for corroded exhaust system. Parts and service costs can be high too.

SUBARU LIBERTY 4D SEDAN (1989-1994)
GOOD performance from 2.2-litre, flat-four boxer engine, if a little noisy. Styling is neat, finish good. Air-conditioning, cruise control, central locking, power steering, power windows standard. Good handler, good value. Parts and service costs can be costly.

TOYOTA CAMRY 4D SEDAN (1987-1993)
BLAND but reliable. Vague steering, some paint finish problems. Fuel-injected, 2.0-litre engine with front wheel drive, five- speed manual only. Power steering and radio/cassette standard. Check if your purchase has been a fleet car. Otherwise the Toyota makes a very sound used family car.

NISSAN PINTARA 4D SEDAN (1989-1992)
BEST performer in the class with a 2389cc, 12-valve engine. The engine is rather vocal and the ride is soft with vague handling. Some body quality problems - check for squeaks and rattles. Air- conditioning, alloy wheels, fog lights and power steering standard. Hasn't aged well at all.