5 Cars that enthusiasts would love to see on Indian roads again

With nostalgia on the verge of breaking in, we choose five cars that Indian car enthusiasts would love to see on the roads, again. As time passes, new models replace the ageing albeit ageing old ones. And more often than not, a bunch of us mortals curse car companies for not continuing our favourite models for long enough. Anyway, below is the list of such cars. Feel free to add your suggestions in the comments section.

Skoda Fabia 1.6

(A modified Skoda Fabia by Petes)

The Fabia, although not free from niggles, was a sweet, little car. It handled well, and the 105hp producing 1.6-litre engine made it all the more desirable. The car’s build quality was second to none, and if you were in the market for a powerful yet usable petrol hatchback, the Fabia 1.6 was one serious contender.

Ford Fiesta 1.6S

In a market like ours where most special editions are just stickers and chrome appliques, there was once a driver oriented special edition. Larger wheels shod with 195-section tyres, stiffer suspension, subtle hints on the exterior to prove that it’s the more fun to drive version, and a lovely 1.6-litre engine were the car’s main attractions. As one of the best handling cars India has seen (especially in the sub Rs 10 lakh segment), the Fiesta stood right on top, and is sorely missed.

Ford Fiesta diesel

Single digit sales figures aren’t likely to encourage any carmaker to continue selling its product, and it appears that the same has happened with Ford. The Fiesta, although brilliant to drive, has failed to taste success. Even after two updates, discontinuation of petrol engines, and reduced prices, the Fiesta wasn’t accepted by the market, and its production was recently reported to have been ceased. Among the current range of diesel powered sedans, it was easily one of the best in terms of handling. And while Ford hasn’t announced anything yet, it remains to be seen what eventually replaces the Fiesta, because those are really huge shoes to fill.

Honda Civic

The futuristic interior might still make you believe that the Civic isn’t from the past, and the low slung exterior styling won’t let you believe that it was once on sale in India, either. It’s a mix of the premium-ness expected from a D segment saloon, and, of course, the racy JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) character. Available in multiple versions (including a short-lived Hybrid and one with pedal shifters), the Civic was fun to drive. And given its global presence, tuning one was never a problem – parts are available across the globe. Sadly, the car is not.

Octavia vRS (and the Laura vRS that followed)

Like the Civic, the Octavia vRS also used a 1.8-litre petrol engine, although this one was turbocharged. The Laura vRS also came with a 1.8 TSI engine, and so does the current ‘regular’ Octavia. As far as driving pleasure goes, the Octavia is one of the most fun to drive FWD cars, and the engine made it even better. Turbocharged petrol was something that only tuners could relate to, but look at the market now – there are a couple of turbo petrol engines! In the mass market, it was the Octavia that started it all, for us Indians, at least.