5 other cars we want to return - HM Contessa to Tata Sierra
In continuation to our list of cars that we want back in India, here are five other models we wish to see on the road forever.
HM Contessa
The HM Contessa is often called the 'muscle car of India.' That said, the old sedan isn't really a muscle car and is derived from a Vauxhall model that was on sale in Britain. However, the classy design does help it have a slight resemblance with some of the sporty American cars of the yore. Back in the day, the Contessa used to be the most premium car on sale in the country. Even today, it enjoys a huge fan following. While you can find many immaculately restored examples in the used car market, there would be better than a modern version with a similar shape but with an electrified powertrain.
Mitsubishi Lancer
The Mitsubishi Lancer was launched in 1998 and sold in decent numbers. In fact, in select pockets, the demand for the diesel variant stayed strong even after the advent of the more modern rivals. The Indian-spec Lancer also offered a 1.8-litre petrol engine variant with a Tiptronic automatic transmission, a feature quite ahead of its time. The C2-segment sedan features a timeless design and provides excellent dynamics. Moreover, among the car customizers, it's known to be a clean canvas that offers immense modification opportunities.
With facelifts, the Lancer manages to live even today in markets like China and Taiwan.
Mahindra Classic
The Mahindra Classic, which can be said to be a predecessor of the Thar, looked macho was quite the capable off-roader. While the Thar is at least as capable as the Classic, it just can't match the open-top motoring experience that the latter offered.
Also Read - Modified SUVs with huge street cred - Toyota Fortuner to Mahindra Bolero
Tata Sierra
The Tata Sierra enjoys a cult status among the enthusiasts, who would really want this small SUV not to return in a modern avatar. The Sierra was launched in 1991 and became the first passenger vehicle from Tata Motors. It even became the first-ever car to be designed and manufactured entirely in India. Unfortunately, it was a bit ahead of its time as the car buyers were not prepared for a costly diesel-guzzling SUV in a three-door body format. The Sierra was discontinued in 2000 and was replaced with the Safari, which found much higher acceptance.
HM Ambassador
The Hindustan Ambassador is among the most iconic cars to have ever been on sale in our country. The Ambassador is based on Morris Oxford Series III, which dates back to the 1940s, but in spite of its dated underpinnings, the Ambassador offers the kind of comfort levels that can't be matched by even the most modern of the C-segment sedans. We really wish to have a new version, with a more efficient engine and more creature comforts but with similar ride quality and a comfortable back seat, with the Groupe PSA's (Peugeot-Citroen) CMP platform.
