Iconic 90’s Classics: The Golden Era

Ah, the 1990s—a golden era for car enthusiasts in the UK. This was the decade when car manufacturers really hit their stride, producing some of the most iconic and beloved vehicles ever to hit the road.

The 90s weren’t exactly a time of luxury when it came to cars. In-car entertainment? Forget it—unless you count racing to wind up the windows faster than your sister in the back seat. Back then, the real "entertainment" came from the roar of the engine and the thrill of winding along a B-road. These four cars weren’t just vehicles; they were icons of the 90s.

Whether you were a fan of rally-bred beasts or nimble hot hatches, the 90s had something for everyone. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and look at five cars that truly defined the decade.

1. Subaru Impreza WRX STi 2000 (1994-2000)

If you were into cars in the 90s, there’s no way you could miss the Subaru Impreza STi WRX 2000. Known affectionately as the "Scooby," this car was a rally legend that you could drive to the shops. With its turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, it handled like a dream, especially on the UK's rainy roads. Plus, that signature bonnet scoop and growling exhaust note made sure everyone knew you were coming from a mile off.

But the Impreza wasn’t just fast; it was practical, reliable, and had a bit of a bad-boy image that made it seriously cool.

2. Ford Escort RS (1992-1996)

The Ford Escort RS was the car that made every kid slap posters on their bedroom walls. Built for rallying but perfectly at home on the road, the Escort was all about performance and attitude. That massive "whale tail" spoiler wasn’t just for show—it was a sign that this car meant business.

With its turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, the Escort RS could rip through country lanes and handle whatever the British weather threw at it. Simply put, this car was—and still is—a legend.

3. Citroën Saxo (1996-2003)

For many young drivers in the 90s, the Citroën Saxo VTS and VTR were the gateway to the world of hot hatches. It wasn’t the fastest car on the road, but it was light, quick, and just plain fun to drive.

The Saxo had a cheeky charm, and it became a favourite in the modified car scene. Whether you were bombing around town or carving up B-roads, the Saxo was a blast. Plus, it was affordable, which made it all the more accessible to a generation of drivers who wanted a bit of excitement without breaking the bank.

4. BMW 3 Series (E36, 1990-2000)

The BMW E36 3 Series was the car that made Beemers cool in the 90s. It had that perfect mix of performance, luxury, and style that appealed to just about everyone. It didn’t matter what engine was under the bonnet, when you got behind the wheel you just knew you were in something special.

The E36 handled beautifully, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive setup, and it looked the part too—sleek, sophisticated, and just a little bit sporty. It was the car that could do it all, whether you were commuting to work or heading out for a weekend blast.

Whether you were chasing rally glory in a Subaru Impreza or just enjoying the thrill of a Citroën Saxo, these cars brought excitement to everyday driving. They’re remembered fondly not just for their performance, but for the way they made people feel. Even today, they’re celebrated as classics, proof that the 90s really were a golden age for car lovers.

Fancy getting your hands on one of these 90s legends? Head over to the Vehicle Finder to see if you can track down a piece of automotive history. Whether you’re looking for a project car or something ready to hit the road, Copart UK has a wide selection that might just include your dream 90s ride.