Today, we venture back to the vibrant '90s, where automotive enthusiasts set their hearts on captivating yet affordable coupe A's. Let us explore some of these forgotten gems that once captured the dreams of car-crazy kids.
- Subaru SVX: A Visionary Yet Flawed Sports Car
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| Subaru SVX |
The Subaru SVX, unveiled in 1991, stood as a bold endeavor, marking Subaru's foray into the world of popular sports cars. With futuristic styling and a unique side window design resembling a concept car, it certainly caught attention. Under its hood, a potent 3.3-liter boxer engine with 231 horsepower roared to life, complemented by Subaru's signature all-wheel drive. However, the fatal flaws emerged when Subaru opted for a slow-shifting four-speed automatic transmission, disappointing purists. Moreover, the abundance of technology resulted in a heavy car, impacting its driving mechanics. By the time production ceased in 1996, only 24,000 SVX cars were sold, with a mere 2,450 finding homes in Europe.
- Fiat Coupe A: Fiat's Pocket Rocket
The Fiat Coupe A served as a testament to Fiat's capability to produce more than ordinary compact cars. Often referred to as the "poor man's Ferrari," this masterpiece was designed by Chris Bangle of BMW fame during his tenure at Penny Farina. Power surged from the same engine found in the Lancia Delta HF Integrale—a 2-liter four-cylinder powerhouse. The Coupe A's distinctive styling and a range of engine options, including a 5-cylinder 2-liter with 220 horsepower, ensured exhilarating performance. With a remarkable 0 to 60 mph time of just 6.3 seconds for the most potent version, the Fiat Coupe A exuded a thrilling aura. However, like many Italian cars of the era, quality concerns limited its survival.
- Ford Kuga: The Capri's Ambitious Heir
Unveiled in 1998, the Ford Kuga was ambitiously referred to as the Ford Capri for the next millennium. Built on the Mondeo platform, it boasted Ford's signature "new edge" styling language. Offering two petrol engines, a 2-liter four-cylinder, and a 2.5-liter V6, the Kuga provided comfort and spaciousness. Yet, despite being a decent coupe A with stable performance, it failed to capture the essence and allure of the iconic Capri. The absence of captivating details and above-average performance hindered its appeal, leading to its quiet discontinuation in 2002.
- Porsche 968: The Stuttgart Enigma
The Porsche 968, manufactured between 1991 and 1996, existed as an enigmatic model from the revered Stuttgart-based manufacturer. Positioned between the Porsche 944 of the '80s and the iconic Porsche Boxster of the '90s, the 968 showcased its prowess. With excellent handling, remarkable performance, and a unique transaxle layout for optimal weight distribution, it was a capable and enjoyable coupe A. Sporting a powerful three-liter engine, Porsche produced only 12,700 units during its short-lived production, making it a rare gem.
- Mazda MX6: The Sleek and Sporty Coupe
While the Mazda MX6 made its debut in 1987, we set our focus on its second generation introduced in 1991. This sleek and sporty coupe A was based on the 626 platform but exuded a distinct and alluring appeal. Boasting two doors and more powerful engines, it shared its mechanical underpinnings with the Ford Probe. With a two and a half-liter V6 delivering 200 horsepower, the MX6 outpaced most of its '90s counterparts, ensuring a spirited drive. Despite its prowess, sightings of the Mazda MX6 have become increasingly rare in recent times.
- Audi S2: The Understated Coupe A
Recalling the bygone era of the early '90s, we find the Audi S2, the coupe A version of the ordinary family saloon. As the first S car in Audi's history, it stood as the spiritual successor to the legendary Audi Quattro rally cars of the '80s. Understated yet competent, the S2 housed a popular 5-cylinder turbo engine, boasting 220 to 230 horsepower. Featuring Quattro all-wheel drive, its performance rivaled even the iconic Porsche 911 of its time. The S2's naught to 60 mph sprint took merely 5.9 seconds, and its top speed was capped at 150 miles per hour. Introduced in 1991 and discontinued in 1996, the Audi S2 remains a potential future classic.
And there you have it—a journey through the forgotten and captivating 90s coupes that once fueled the dreams of automotive enthusiasts. As we bid adieu to this nostalgic expedition, we hope you enjoyed reminiscing about these hidden gems.