HYUNDAI X3 EXCEL 5D HATCHBACK (1994-1998)
THE Excel proved that thousands of Aussie bargain hunters can be wrong. Behind the roomy cabin and stylish body lay a cheaply built package that has proved unrefined, not very durable and unappealing to use. And a gutsy 1.5 engine in now way makes up for the awful manual gearchange and dreary ambience.

DAIHATSU APPLAUSE 4D SEDAN (1989-1998)
THE Applause is a hatchback masquerading as a sedan. It is the closest to matching the Wira for equipment, has four-wheel discs and the 1.6-litre engine manages to combine excellent fuel economy with a 77kW power output to almost match the Laser's performance.

FORD KH LASER 5D HATCHBACK (1992-1994)
FORD's Laser is one generation older but its reputation and Ford badge make it a sought-after buy. The GLi can not match the Wira for equipment but there is power steering, four-wheel discs and a performance edge with a 76kW, 1.8-litre engine.

MITSUBISHI CB LANCER 5D HATCHBACK (1992-1996)
THE Lancer is almost a twin to the Wira in all areas except one - it is not as well equipped. The GL does not have much in the way of luxuries, though power steering was standard from May 1995. On the plus side, there is the Mitsubishi reputation and perhaps slightly better build quality.