We just love hatchbacks.
In 1974 Ford began the “Mustang II” generation and in 1975 the hatchback, which sold for $3,818 generated 30,038 units for the brand. In my view, this was a very sad period for the Mustang badge, creating one of the ugliest vehicles to see the pavement.
1975 Ford Mustang-II hatchback.
The Renault 5 Turbo featured a mid-mounted 1397 cc Turbocharged Cléon Inline 4 engine maiking 158hp, and placed behind the driver in mid-body in a modified Renault 5 chassis. The Turbo 2 was less expensive, but had nearly the same levels of performance. You can see an extensive gallery of this car on Flickr, or read the full story on Cartype.
1985 Renault 5 Turbo2.
1985 Renault 5 Turbo2.
1985 Renault 5 Turbo2.
1985 Renault 5 Turbo2 emblem.
The aerodynamically designed 1985 Chrysler Laser XE 2-door hatchback was considered innovative at the time, with high-tech electronics, turbo power, and front-wheel drive. Base Laser powertrain included a fuel injected 2.2 liter engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Options included a Turbo engine, automatic transmission, leather interior, sunroof, Euro handling package and a 15-inch tire and wheel package.
1985 Chrysler Laser XE.
Somehow, the way this 1976 Ford Fiesta hatchback has aged makes it desirable with it’s boxy, seventies look.
The first generation of the Ford Fiesta Mark I was produced from 1976–1983 and was the first Ford with front-wheel drive, had an inline-4 and had up to 84hp. Read the rest of this story on Cartype.
1976 Ford Fiesta.
1976 Ford Fiesta cut-away.
The Opel GTC Paris will be shown for the first time at the Mondial de l’Automobile 2010 in Paris on October 2–17. This is easily one of the most elegant vehicles presented to the public in recent memory and certainly one of the most beautiful hatchbacks, with more info to be found on Cartype.
2010 Opel GTC Paris hatchback.
2010 Opel GTC Paris hatchback.
After being exhibited at the 26th Tokyo Motor Show, the Be-1 was launched two years later in January 1987 (the canvas top model debuted in March). The “nostalgic modern” design concept stressed relaxation and comfort. At the time Japanese society was shifting towards more individualism, so this car was well received. Production was limited and it was so popular that, at its launch, buyers were chosen by lottery.
1987 Nissan Be-1 (BK-10)
Specifications.
Overall length / width / height: 3,635/1,580/1,395mm
Wheelbase: 2,300mm
Tread (front/rear): 1,365/1,350mm
Curb weight: 700kg
Engine: MA10 (4-cyl. in line, OHC), 987cc
Max. power (net): 38kW (52PS)/6,000rpm
Max. torque (net): 75Nm (7.6kgm)/3,600rpm
Transmission: 3-speed AT, floor shift
Suspension (front/rear): Strut/4-link
Tires: 165/70HR12
Seating capacity: 5
The Autobianchi A112 is a supermini produced by the Italian automaker Autobianchi. It was developed using the mechanicals which subsequently underpinned the Fiat 127. It was introduced in 1969.
1984 Autobianchi A112.
1984 Autobianchi A112.
The Rex was introduced on July 15 1972. The Subaru Rex was a Kei car automobile produced from 1972 to 1992 for sale in Japan by Subaru and was also sold in Europe, South America, Bermuda and the Caribbean. The name “Rex” comes from Latin for “king”. The Subaru Rex represented a fresh start, having little do with the Subaru 360.
1973 Subaru Rex.
The 1986 Honda Civic Si hatchback had a 12-valve, 1.5 liter engine with fuel injection and had 91 hp. It also had sport suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars plus a removable Moonroof.
1986 Honda Civic Si hatchback.
The Honda Civic GL was a fun little ride, with it’s 1488cc engine. It had front disc brakes and rear drum breaks. It was front wheel drive and a 5-speed transmission. Even back in 1985, it got 35mpg (46 highway).
1982 Honda Civic GL Hatchback.
The Chevrolet Vega Kammback introduced in September 1970, was the first US-made four-passenger wagon, and the first two-door wagon from GM in six years. It shares its wheelbase and length with Vega coupe versions and was produced in the 1971–1977 model years.
1971 Chevrolet Vega Kammback.
The 1981 Mercury Capri RS equipment options package included:
Exterior.
• Hood scoop (non-fuctional large style)
• Black grille
• Black headlamp frames
• Black windshield molding
• Black dual remote control mirrors
• Upper bodyside dual accent stripe treatment (delete pin stripes)
• Black door handles and lock cylinders
Interior.
• Simulated engine-turned instrument panel and right-hand applique
• RS medallion on instrument panel
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Functional.
• Handling suspension
The 1981 Mercury Capri Turbo RS equipment options package included:
Exterior.
• Turbo RS tape identification on front fender
• Bright Turbo plaque on hood scoop
Functional.
• 2.3 litre 2V 4-cylinder turbocharged engine
• Sport tuned exhaust
• Michelin TRX low-profile steel-belted radial ply tires
• Three-spoke 15.3-inch forged aluminum wheels
• Rally suspension system
• Turbo function indicator lights on instrument panel
• 8000rpm tachometer
1981 Mercury Capri RS.
The Stallion was a major sports options package for the Ford Pinto available in 1976. It included:
Exterior.
• Black grille
• Black cowl top
• Black hood treatment
• Black windshield moldings
• Black wiper arms
• Black window frames
• Black drip rails
• Black lower body side tape stripes
• Stallion decal on front fenders (Pinto nameplate on front fender and Runabout nameplate on “C” pillar deleted)
• Dual black right and left hand remote-control mirrors
• Styled steel wheels
• Black third door treatment
• Black lower back panel
Functional.
• A70x13 RWL bias ply tires
• Handling suspension
The Stallion Option was not available with the Luxury Decor Group, Squire Option or Protection Group.
1976 Ford Pinto Stallion.
1976 Ford Pinto Stallion.
This 1978 Ford Pinto 3-door Runabout has a great look to it, particularly in the rear, where the glass lift gate gives it such a wide stance.
1978 Ford Pinto 3-door Runabout.
