Toyota TercelJust about every full-line carmaker has a Barney Fife in its model line. Toyota's is the Tercel, though by any measure, it's far more competent and reliable than the likable-but-inept deputy of television legend. Aint Bee would likely find it much less annoying, too. Here's simple understated virtue in easy-to-swallow coupe and sedan form. Practical, usefully sized, and appliance-reliable, the Tercel is the perfect car for those who aren't interested in surprises. It comes only in CE trim-level, but a well-rounded option list lets you equip it as you like. A death-and-taxes-reliable 1.5-liter/93-horsepower inline four gets you up to speed and delivers frugal 32/39 mpg city/highway fuel mileage.
| Body type: | Coupe, sedan |
| Drivetrain: | Front engine, front drive |
| Airbag: | Driver/passenger |
| Base curb weight, lb: | 2010 |
| Base engine: | 1.5-liter I-4, DOHC, 93 hp |
| Opt. engine: | None |
| Brakes, f/r: | Discs/drums, ABS opt. |
| Price range: | $11,500-$13,500 |
| Fuel economy, city/hwy, mpg: | 32/39 |
Volkswagen CabrioLife shouldn't be taken too seriously-that's the statement Volkswagen's Cabrio makes. This slab-sided little sun-bucket is the natural choice for anyone whose definition of driving is the relentless pursuit of a good time. Room for five in a snug interior means you can bring plenty of friends, or get to know new ones enroute to the next espresso stop. The front-drive Cabrio is modestly powered by a 2.0-liter/115-horsepower inline four that's standard-issue in the the VW line. The Cabrio comes in economical base form or in a high-line version that bundles many of the most popular options, including a special interior treatment and alloy wheels. There are no significant changes for '98.
| Body type: | Convertible |
| Drivetrain: | Front engine, front drive |
| Airbag: | Driver/passenger |
| Base curb weight, lb: | 2701 |
| Base engine: | 2.0-liter I-4, SOHC, 115 hp |
| Opt. engine: | None |
| Brakes, f/r: | Discs/drums, ABS std. |
| Price range: | $19,000-$22,500 |
| Fuel economy, city/hwy, mpg: | 23/30 |
Volkswagen Golf GLWith an all-new iteration due here for '99, Volkswagen's most affordable car, the Golf GL sedan, enters '98 with but a smattering of new stuff. Remote locking is added to its option list, and the color palette has sprouted a few new hues. VW's new TDI inline four diesel has failed to materialize in the Golf, leaving the 2.0-liter/115-horsepower inline-four as its only powerplant. It's matched with a five-speed manual or an optional four-speed auto shifter. A sensibly configured five-place interior is augmented by a convenient hatchback. The sole GL trim level offers a reasonable standard equipment level, with air-conditioning, ABS, and stereo upgrades as the principal options.
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