FLAT ABS

WHICH CAR?

From the cars you have shortlisted, we think you should go for the Verna diesel. The Fiesta too meets most of your requirements, but the Verna is more powerful and that means overtaking slow moving traffic will be easier.  More importantly, the Verna gives a big car feel while the Fiesta (despite being better built) looks and feels smaller next to a Verna. Hyundai has a very good service network and they should keep your car fit for five to six years without much trouble. And yes, you can buy one with ABS.  ESTEEM ISSUES  I want to know what you think about the Maruti Esteem. I want a three-box car and I drive about 10-15 km a day in Delhi. Ideally, I don't want to spend more than Rs 5 lakh. My friends say that the technology is outdated. I would like to have a car which is low in running cost and maintenance and which keeps me cool in the Delhi heat! I will not be buying another new car for the next 8 years or so.

Amitabh, New Delhi

If you are not worried about driving a dated car (in looks, at least) then there is nothing wrong with the Esteem. It is cheap to buy and run and spares are inexpensive too.  OLD IS OLD  I came to know from a car mechanic that a Contessa Classic (1999 model) diesel version is available at a throwaway price. He told me that the vehicle comes with a HM-Isuzu engine, which gives a decent mileage of 13-15 kpl. Moreover, spare parts will be available since the Contessa comes from the HM stable. Is it worth a purchase? If not, kindly let me know which is the best used car to buy. My budget is around Rs 1.25 lakh.

Ganesh Hariharan, Chennai

The Contessa is an old car. It is too big from the outside and does not have sufficient room on the inside. Parts are available, but difficult to trace down. The car is dynamically challenged compared to new cars and is not even half as safe.  Essentially, buying a Contessa today for active use is a big mistake. Use your hard earned Rs 1.25 lakh to buy a nice used Maruti 800 (much smaller, but way more capable). Look hard and you may get an Alto or a Hyundai Santro too.

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