| Overall Rating |
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| Description |
| Compact once represented a big step forward for the Malaysian manufacturer Proton, but it's based on early Nineties Mitsubishi technology. Practical and functional, it's simply reliable low-cost family transport. |
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| Handling |
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| Comfort |
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| Quality & Reliability |
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| Performance |
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| Roominess |
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| Running Costs |
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| Value for Money |
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| Stereo/Sat Nav |
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| NCAP |
| Not tested |
| Best Models |
| 1.8 GTi |
| Worst Models |
| None |
| Replacement |
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| Road Test |
| At today's low prices, Compact makes some sense. The Compact is big for a three-door supermini; the saloon and five-door hatchback are slightly squashed middleweight contenders. There's also a two-door coupe, a scarce but entertaining car for not a lot of cash. Proton used recycled Mitsubishi technology extensively in the early Nineties, which is good news on the reliability front. Compact bears a close resemblance to the car that Mitsubishi sold here as the Colt. The Compact is perhaps a more successful design than the larger Persona, being nicer to drive, lively with 1.6 and 1.8 engines, and with more visual appeal. Driving a Persona won't raise your pulse rate, but the engines are willing enough and handling is predictable and assured. |
| Positive Points |
- Very cheap to buy
- Reasonable equipment for the money
- 1.6 and 1.8 are quite sporty
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| Negative Points |
- Characterless, anonymous and looking dated
- Lacks refinement and ride quality
- Feels a bit lightweight and cheap
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