Car design in 1986 was notable for the use of technology for both manufacturing and product, but from a styling point of view, the development in aerodynamics had many advantages too. Along with improved fuel economy, the improved airflow suppressed noise, made cars more stable and therefore improve traction and speed. Handy points for the […]
1980s Car aerodynamics Read More »
The 1960s was a significant period for Japanese cars, where their ambitions grew to overseas markets. In order to appeal to the European market, several Japanese companies utilised Italian design schools to create more appealing looking vehicles. Some like Bertone were very resolved to a European sense of aesthetics but had limited appeal in their
Italian styled Japanese cars Read More »
The ‘80s will go down as the era of the Hot Hatch, a phenomenon that most of the mainstream mass producers willing to have a crack at. The main European players have created classics out of their cars, with Ford, VW, GM and Peugeot creating some very memorable cars, so it’s worth having a quick
Alternative ’80s Hot Hatches Read More »
By the late ‘80s, the coupe sector had moved upmarket, catering for those looking for a bit more substance than a pretty frock. However, it was still possible to buy a new coupe for less than 10K. Let’s wind back time, and review the ever-decreasing options. The cheapest by some margin was the Skoda 130
1980’s compact coupes Read More »
While the VW Golf GTI is often credited for the popularity of the hot hatch, the Mini Cooper S is most likely to have offered an influence on the following pocket racers. Most of these cars were designed in the ‘70s and were close to being replaced, yet these cars do go some way to
Early ’80s Pocket Rockets Read More »
The ‘90s was the last decade where the coupe market found favour with buyers. I’ve found a selection of 10 contenders who promise style, handling and performance according to their respective brochures. Picking 1997 as a typical year where you had such a choice of cars, we’ll have a quick analysis of their strengths.
Devised as an export model, as Honda correctly assumed that westerners would be weary of thrashing the original 354cc to reach its maximum speed. A more suitable bigger capacity was introduced at the same time, placing the car directly in line with the Mini Cooper. Powered by a potent air-cooled 2 cylinder engine, the noisy
1971 Honda N600 Touring Read More »
Despite the ‘80s being known as the decade of the hatchback car, it was evident that mid-sized saloon cars still had huge appeal. Perceived security, with more balanced styling and prestige, may have played a part in their continuing success. We use the turn of the decade, as a vantage point to review a selection
Late ’80s mid-market saloons Read More »
Are you insane? Quipped a well-heeled lady as I feverishly took snaps of this recently. I looked at her and grinned and said I am. Parked in a comfy part of London, this Hondas time might be up. I had a quick check online Regarding its MOT status and it has no less than 16
1983 Honda Accord EX Read More »
1980 was a significant year for new releases, and the optimism of a new decade meant that there was a hopeful outlook for the motor industry after several years of gloom. One significant car that did offer a positive British outlook was the Mini Metro. Based on the Mini, it was a clever piece of
