There may be 30 million cars on Britain’s roads, but some models that will still be fresh in many memories have all but disappeared.
The RAC has delved into the DVLA’s records to pick out 7 memorable models that are on the verge of disappearing forever.
1. Citroen BX
Back when Citroens really were avant-garde, the BX was a practical and spacious hatchback that could perform brilliant tricks; self-levelling hydropneumatic suspension meant it rode superbly and could also raise and lower its ride height to suit the conditions.
But that clever suspension needs proper maintenance, which explains their scarcity; even the latest examples are now over 20 years old and won’t work unless they’re shown some love.
Examples remaining in 1995: 171,478; Examples left today: 495
2. Talbot Sunbeam
Almost a forgotten marque, Talbot reappeared in Europe briefly in the late 1970s, after being bought by Peugeot-Citroen from Chrysler, and the Sunbeam was one of its first products.
Based on a cut-down Avenger chassis, developed in a hurry and built at the former Rootes Group factory in Linwood, the Sunbeam is probably best remembered for the high-performance Lotus Sunbeam version that also spawned a rally sibling.
Examples remaining in 1995: 5,261; Examples left today: 440
3. Austin Maestro
Unfortunately, it was also loaded with new tech, including body-coloured bumpers, electronic carburetors and an electronic dashboard with voice synthesiser – all of which were problematic on early cars.
Examples remaining in 1995: 75,674; Examples left today: 324
4. Vauxhall Chevette
Often forgotten about, the Chevette was in its early days one of the most popular superminis sold in the UK and proved how important cars of this size were to the market at that time. However, rivals soon overtook it.
The Chevette used the traditional longitudinal engine and rear-wheel-drive, while all of its key rivals had switched to the more space-efficient front-wheel-drive layout. Vauxhall followed suit eventually with the Nova in 1983.
Examples remaining in 1995: 37,798; Examples left today: 238
5. Datsun Cherry
The fourth-generation Cherry appeared in 1982 and stuck to the Japanese formula for success at the time: styling so boring and forgettable it could leave you comatose, but reliability that would shame a Rolex.
An interesting footnote in the Cherry story is the Cherry Europe/Alfa Arna spinoff that saw an Alfa Romeo engine, electronics and front suspension married to a Datsun rear suspension and body – possibly the worst idea imaginable.
Examples remaining in 1995: 66,723; Examples left today: 93
6. Lada Riva
The history books will show that the Riva was one of the most joked-about cars in motoring history, but it should also note that it was a sturdy and unpretentious product from the eastern bloc that sorted out some of the issues of the Italian original (as well as adding a few new ones).
Sold right into the 1990s in the UK, you can still buy a new one if you’re prepared to go to Egypt for it.
Examples remaining in 1995: 56,898; Examples left today: 60
7. Austin Princess
