BY MALCOLM LIVERMORE | 18th Jun 2003
THE Swift is a capable enough car but is let down by its ride and roadholding. On the plus side, the 1.6-litre, fuel-injected engine is economical and has a healthy power output of 70kW.
DAIHATSU CHARADE 4D SEDAN (1989-1993)
THE Charade is good value for money with almost the same interior space as the Mazda 121, decent sized boot and an economical, willing, 1.3-litre, 16-valve engine producing 66kW.
HYUNDAI X2 EXCEL 4D SEDAN (1990-1994)
THE Excel's popularity proved that buyers put a low price ahead of quality, refinement, safety, style, comfort and image. Reliability and durability too, as it turned out. The LS is the base Excel with a gutsy 65kW 1.5 but no class.
MITSUBISHI CB LANCER 4D SEDAN (1990-1992)
THE Mitsubishi Lancer appeals to more conservative buyers. The 1.5-litre, overhead cam, 12-valve, carburetted engine produces 65kW or 71kW for the EFI version. Ride and handling is capable, smooth and quiet but not sporting.