Maruti 800 – Imperfect match for a modern family

Pros : Good resale, good quality of metal sheet, interior plastic

Cons : Head-room, shoulder space, leg-room, low power

I have been proud owner of Maruti 800 for over years. Recently we bought a new Wagon R LXI in exchange of our old Maruti 800 MPI STD BS III. The reason why we disposed off our Maruti 800 is its inefficient ride, uncomfortable interior and lack of features.

Let me tell you some good factors first, the best thing about Maruti 800 is its good quality of metal sheet that makes it safer. In addition, the interior plastic quality is quite superior to the interiors of other small cars like the Nano and the Spark. The best part of Maruti 800 is its high resale value. Although, I drove the car for more than 4 years, even then the amount of exchange was handsome.

A Maruti 800 owner will certainly complain of its compact interiors. Both front and rear cabins of the car lack sufficient leg-room, shoulder space and head-room. Furthermore, there are no head-rests for the rear seat passengers. I being a six feet tall person feel quite uncomfortable while driving it.

Besides this, the 800 cc engine of this car lacks sufficient power. No doubt, the pick up the car is appreciable, but its acceleration is not much impressive. However, the small size of this car enables it to turn easily and escape from the city traffic.

One major setback of Maruti 800 is its unavailability with latest features. I think that the company should re-introduce the 800 with the latest features if they want this iconic car to regain its lost glory.