I searched the market for a vehicle to suit my small family and savings based small budget.
Initially I thought I would go for the cheapest second hand other brand vehicles of older models which were available for twenty thousand upwards.
But I had seen a friend bring one such old vehicle with much fanfare and sweets and the very next day saw the vehicle refusing to start and , belch smoke with spluttering bouts and get kicked and sent back to the garage.
The second hand Maruti 800 also appeared attractive with a price tag of Rs.One lakh upward, depending on the year of the model.
But we decided to go for a new Maruti 800, after considering the price of other models like the Zen and the Fiat UNO. I had also tried driving the Sumo, which had lot of space and was a diesel vehicle.
We did not like the maruti van, so we got a loan from Saitomo and got the car.
The Maruti 800 was found to be a very cosy, smooth, trouble free car, easy to drive and manoeuvre in the crowded and narrow lanes of the city.
It is good for long distance driving too.
The service and parts availability is very good and widespread.
The only difficulty arises when there are more people and when there is more luggage of some friend or relative. Another vehicle is required then. The height is low and leg space not much for tall people with long legs.
But one thing is sure, the beauty is my new found love ( I wonder whether it would be the only new one or there would be many more new ones).
The only problem is that I do not pay much attention to it as I am attracted and involved in so many other affairs(!)