Twenty years in the car industry is like 234 human years; around three lifespans pass in this time and revolutions come and go.
So how have the models which have survived - or been replaced - across the ravages of two decades, fared since 1997? We dug out a 1997 copy of Autocar to find out. Take a look below to see how they compare.
Twenty years on: Autocar verdicts
Superminis
Best then: Volkswagen Polo
Best now: Ford Fiesta
1997 Mk4 Ford Fiesta - “Super-smooth engines, great handling, classy interior, pity about the nose.”
2017 Mk7 Ford Fiesta - “No longer a class-beater in every regard, but so far ahead of the curve on ride and handling that it’s unassailable.”
Mini:
1997 Rover Mini - “Voted the greatest car of all time. Several times. ‘Nuff said.”
2017 Mini 3-door hatch - “Three-pot engines and cleverly redesigned interior make the Mini a superb choice. Pricey to buy but worth the money.”
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There are many cars, I even
Ford Orion - yes the Focus, but no saloon for UK
Citroen Xantia - C5 axed, to be replaced by an SUV
Alfa GTV - 4C is probably close but a more expensive hardcore sports car than the FWD coupe
Honda Accord coupe - the coupe only lasted a few years, even the saloon has been axed
Saab 93 - The new Insignia might be the closest living relative
Progress?
@artill
except for the interior space thing, i remember old cars being small, especially headroom-wise, i'm only 6'1 and often wanted a lower seat. visibility! modern cars simply don't have any.
these days you read a review of a citroen and find complaint about ride quality. also - slightly off topic perhaps - i really miss base spec cars with exposed metal interiors, no power steering, no toys, hardly any power but doesn't weigh anything. those things were fun!