Maruti 800/Alto
The
Maruti 800 and the Alto are the most popular cars from the house of Maruti Suzuki. Both the cars are successful in the Indian car market and also come with the affordable price tag. These are the worst effected models by the Nano as the new price tag itself does not make much difference. Both the models are known for their lively performance and therefore fetch a very good resale value. One of the reasons for the people to opt for Maruti brand is the easy availability of the parts as well as the service centers that are located in everywhere in the country. It was earlier announced that M800 will be passed out by 2015 but the company wants to retain the model. The 2000 model of M800 is available in the
used car market for Rs 80,000 whereas the 2005 model of Alto can be driven home for Rs 1.55 Lakh.
Maruti Zen
Maruti Zen is a highly popular model since 90s, it comes with an all aluminium light weight engine that gives excellent performance and good maneuverability. Durable gearbox and other components are major factors favouring the Zen when opting for a used car. The 2001 model of Zen is available for only Rs 1.2 Lakh.
Ford Ikon
Ford Ikon is one of the popular models from Ford’s stable. It is built and designed especially for the Indian buyers. The car was offered with sporty look, well-structured body, and good handling. It is available in both petrol and diesel versions. The car has now lost its charm due to its low fuel efficiency and congested interiors. Even the maintenance cost is high with costly spare parts and servicing. Though the car has lost its glory in the new car market, it is shinning in the used car market carry an affordable price tag. For instance, the 2001 model of the Ford Ikon diesel version is available with a price tag of Rs 1.5 Lakh.
Opel Astra/Corsa
Opel Astra and Corsa were among the popular sedans in India. They offer excellent ergonomics, good safety features, comfort, and a great drive. The suspension is super smooth and silent. These models are no more in the make now. Except some specific parts, the spares are easily available. The few common problems with these models are overheating, air-conditioning, and electrical. The models also consume more fuel compared to the modern cars. They are still available in the used car market where a 1999 model Astra costs Rs 1.2 Lakh and 2002 model Corsa 1.6 is available with a price tag of Rs 1.45 Lakh.
Fiat Siena
Built as par European standard, the car carries very good durability as well as features that one should look for when selecting a used car. With good features, stability, and travel comfort, the model's 1.7-litre turbo-diesel version is available in the used car market. Petrol versions with 1.2-and 1.6-litre capacity engines were also available. The manageable slightly stiff ride is not to be accounted for. The only drawback of Fiat cars are its expensive spares that are not easily available. The 2002 model Siena is available at a price of Rs 1.2 Lakh.
Hyundai Santro
Hyundai flagship model Santro is not only in demand in the new car market but also in the used car market. Spacious and comfortable interiors, a peppy engine, and impressive fuel efficiency are few of the qualities of this compact car which make it an ideal choice for many. The car was initially launched with a 1.0-litre engine that produces 54.2 bhp which was later replaced with a more powerful 1.1-litre engine. A thorough check up should be done for the distributor and ignition coil because as they are prone to malfunction. Santro also lag behind for its rust prone exhaust. A well-maintained Santro is available for Rs 1.5 Lakh and a 2003 model is available with a price tag of Rs 1.65 Lakh.
Maruti WagonR
The WagonR is a good option when seeking a used car. The engine, gear box, and the suspension ensure durability. This compact car with a blend of a car and a van is spacious and its good height ensures easy entry and exit. Effortless comfortable ride and anywhere available Maruti’s service centers are notable points that impress a buyer while looking for a used car. Spares are cheap and easily available. A thorough check before buying, especially on the brake calipers are advisable. A 2001 model VXi is available at a price of Rs 1.5 Lakh.
Tata Indica/Indigo
The Tata Indica is a popular small car with its cheap spares and a good ride quality. Indigo too share the same qualities and is a preferable choice for many. The older models have petrol engines with not so good fuel efficiency. Early models also lack good air conditioners. Avoid old diesel models even if they are well maintained, they give a noisy ride. It is recommended to check up the engine before selecting these models. Also, check the car for oil leaks before making the choice. 2004 model Indigo petrol is available in the used the market with a price tag of Rs 1.5 Lakh. At the same price, one can also purchase a used 2004 Indica V2 diesel.
Maruti Esteem
The Maruti Esteem is also an admired car model from the stable of Maruti. It has a tough and durable engine. It was the best preferred car for participants of many national rallies because of its sheer performance and stability. It is also a symbol of status and luxury for many. The rattle prone interior trim and poor air conditioning are the negative points. But with the build quality and engine durability, Esteem is a good option to consider. The 1997 model Vx is available for Rs 1.3 Lakh.
Daewoo Matiz
The Daewoo Matiz is a city car produced by the South Korean automaker GM Daewoo that has been marketed worldwide since 1998. Though Daewoo cars did not experienced any success in the Indian car market, the model Matiz from the hatchback segment impressed many buyers. Initially, it came with an engine capacity same as the Maruti Suzuki 800 and was known for its fuel efficiency. It offered good handling along with efficient air conditioning. This little car was best suited for city drives and also run smoothly on highways. But it became a failure because of the unavailability of the car parts and service centres. Now there is zero production in India as the car is completely phased out. The 2002 model of Matiz is available with a price tag of Rs 1.10 Lakh.