Maruti Zen to Mahindra Classic to Contessa: 10 TIMELESS cars we want back on the road

Cars are a necessary part of are daily life. They provide mobility for almost all kind of purposes. But then there are some that provide more than just mobility. Such cars evoke an emotion, a feel good factor for the one who owns or drives them. Such good cars are not usually made every time time by manufacturers and most of them enjoy a cult status.

We would want to see such cars on the road forever but sadly, that’s not the case as production of many such cars has stopped. And while one can always get such a car from the used market but frankly, a new car has its own charm. Therefore, we have listed down ten timeless cars that we want to see back on the Indian roads.

Ford Fiesta 1.6 S

The Fiesta 1.6 S was one of the better cars too roam our roads. The 1.6 S variant was the sportier version of the last-gen Ford Fiesta. The differences were not limited to just aesthetics though. The car had a performance-tuned suspension to complete the package. It was powered by the same old 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine which was found under the regular car. The power figures stood at 99 Bhp and 145 Nm, which are exactly the same as those of the regular Fiesta 1.6. However, the tuned suspension of the 1.6 S results in sportier handling and overall driveability.

Honda Civic

The Civic is one car that is held close to heart by many enthusiasts. We have been waiting since forever or Honda Cars India to launch the new version and now it seems to be coming true. Yes, Honda will, in coming time, bring in the tenth-gen Honda Civic to India. That said, the eighth generation Civic which ruled are roads was a beautiful machine. It was powered by a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine which made 130 Bhp of maximum power along with 172 Nm of peak torque. Even by today’s standards, the car looks pretty modern and stylish thanks to that slightly lowered stance along with a timeless design. It also had a comfortable cabin with sufficient featur. The car was a sweet handler and a joy to drive too. Honda, we want this soooo bad to return.

HM Contessa

The HM Contessa is one car that really needs no introduction. During its time, it was the most premium car on sale in the country. And its popularity rose with time, a feat not many cars are able to achieve. It can be said that it was the first and only muscle car like designed vehicle in India untill recently when Mustang was launched .Even today, it has a huge fan following owing to its muscle car-like design. The Contessa is one of the most sought after cars in the used car market and also is thee most modified one. Something like it would really be a big hit now, especially since now people are more aware and enthusiasics for cars.

Mitsubishi Lancer

Once upon a time in India, Mitsubishi used to offer some great cars apart from just SUVs. And we miss that time. The Lancer is a shining example of what an affordable car can do with engineering done right. The sleek and sexy sedan from the Japanese manufacturer was one of its most successful model ever. Enthusiasts the world over love this car for its excellent dynamics and huge modification potential. The India-spec Lancer was available with three engine options – 1.5-litre petrol, 1.8-litre petrol, and 2.0-litre diesel. It was followed by the Lancer Cedia but never did enjoy the kind of fan following that the Lancer had. Another car we want to have back, Mitsubishi are you listening.

Maruti Zen Carbon/Steel

Maruti Suzuki launched the 3-door variants of Zen in India which became an immediate hit among the enthusiasts. They were limited edition vehicles and were available for a short period of time. However, it was quickly lapped up by the enthusiasts. Though India has never been a 3 door car market, this car proved it otherwise. Ever since them, the Zen Carbon and Steel command a great fan following. The 3-door Zen looks sporty, has a peppy engine, and handles pretty well, too. There’s really no other hatchback that can match the appeal and exclusivity of the 3-door Zen.

Chevrolet Cruze

The Cruze was an excellent car from the now defunct (in India) brand Chevrolet. The car was a moderate hit in market but till date, enthusiasts vouch for this powerful and sporty sedan. Given that the car was not that much of a handler, it however had that butch styling along with a powerful diesel engine. It was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine that produced 164 bhp and 360 Nm. The engine came mated to a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The Cruze was one of the fastest diesel sedans in the country. In fact, souped up Cruze were used by the company in many race cups across the world like WRCC etc.

Mahindra Classic

Much before the Thar came along, the Mahindra Classic was the definition of lifestyle utility vehicles. It was a stylish looking vehicle with exceptional off road prowess. It was an instant hit and became synonymous with coolness. Its leaf type suspension allowed it to take on the most challenging terrains and climbs. While we do have many such vehicles today, the Classic remains one of the most dearest cars for the car lovers.

San Storm

The San Storm started a unique segment which ended with it too. We are talking about affordable convertibles which is something for which most enthusiasts yearn about. It was launched in India in 1998. The car offered good ride and handling with a small, lightweight body. The  San Storm was powered by a Renault-sourced 1.2-litre petrol engine that offered only 60 bhp of maximum power. However, thanks to the low kerb weight, the car didn’t feel underpowered. Unfortunately, the mainstream Indian car market has never favoured convertibles and hence, the Storm never sold well. But we have a strong feeling that if it comes back with a slightly more powerful engine, it could do well, especially now that people have become a bit more open minded and enthusiastic in terms of cars.

Tata Sierra

The Tata Sierra was a three door SUV which was a bit ahead of its time. Also, India never was a three door happy market so that affected its success in a big way. Launched in the early 90s, it was appreciated for its macho looks and premium features. However it didn’t get enough buyers due to lack of rear doors and a high price tag. With a modern engine and latest features, we are sure the car can be a hit this time. We also brought to you a potential redesign of the Sierra some days back which looked quite ravishing.

HM Ambassador

The Hindustan Ambassador is one of the most iconic cars of India. While the Amby feels dated in front of the modern sedans that we have on sale today, there’s really no C-segment sedan that can match the rear seat comfort offered by this car. The Ambassador kept the classic design of the Morris Oxford Series III alive for several decades. We feel that a new version with a modern engine, more features, and slightly spruced up looks will find many takers.

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