The 1990s could be seen as a decade of immense change. The collapse of the Soviet Union began a new era of relative peace, the start of the internet changed how we communicate with each other forever, and new waves of musical genres such as Britpop started blasting from our Walkmens.

But politics and entertainment weren't the only things to have a complete overhaul. Big changes to our cars saw huge improvements in design, safety and comfort. From the modern safety features of the Ford Fiesta to the stylish design of the Vauxhall Corsa, the 1990s were truly a remarkable time for our vehicles.

To celebrate this unique decaude in our vehicular history we've rounded up a list of the most popular top-selling cars of the 1990s.

What are the top-selling cars of the 1990s?

13. Renault Clio

Replacing the Renault 5 in 1990, the Renault Clio was known for its small size and excellent fuel efficiency. Despite being one of the smaller cars on this list, the 90s Clio's interior was considered to be incredibly spacious and this model was popular due to its reliability and affordability.

12. Volkwagen Polo

The VW Polo II, known as the Typ 86C received a huge overhaul in the 1990s. This second generation was known for its boxy shape, steep rear window and a range of engine options. Some drivers praised the Polo II for its solid and practical design but the model was said to be plagued by mechanical issues. 

11. Volkswagen Golf

Known for its handling and fuel efficiency, drivers praised the 1990s Volkswagen Golf, known as the Mk2, as an icon of automotive excellence. This hatchback came in a variety of trim levels, including the sporty GTI and R models.

10. Vauxhall Corsa

First introduced in the UK in 1993, the Vauxhall Corsa has been described as stylish, spacious and comfortable. Replacing the Vauxhall Nova, The Corsa was popular with young people for its stylish design and with older drivers for its comfortable ride.

9. BMW 3 Series

Described as one of the best BMWs of the 1990s, the Series 3 included several models including the Sedan, Coupe, and Compact Hatchback. The 1990s model, known as the E36, is a practical two-door car that some reviews say is still comfortable to drive today.

8. Vauxhall Cavalier

A very popular ride throughout the 1990s, the MK3 was the third-generation Cavalier known for its aerodynamic design, comfortability and modern styling. With flush-fitting windows and a revised suspension for a smooth ride, the Cavalier won What Car's Family Car of the Year in 1989 and 1990.

7. Vauxhall Astra

A small family car, the Vauxhall Astra maintained its popularity right through the 1990s. The Mk2 was first released in 1984 and, despite frequently topping sales lists, never outpaced the Ford Escort.

6. Rover 200

Originally marketed as a supermini, the Rover 200 compared closely in size to the contemporary models of the Ford Fiesta and Vauxhall Corsa. Rover priced the car to compete with the likes of the Ford Escort and Vauxhall Astra.

5. Peugeot 306

Launched in '93, the Peugeot 306, was a small hatchback, popular due to its unbeatable handling and ride quality. The model had favourable reviews, with drivers describing the vehicle as nimble and a fun ride. Identical under the skin to the Citroen ZX, the 1.6-litre proved popular with drivers throughout the 1990s.

4. Nissan Micra

Also known as the K11, the second generation of the Nissan Micra was first produced in 1992. This popular vehicle was built in the UK, Japan, and Taiwan. Dubbed the 90s version of the Mini, the Nissan Micra was praised for its reliability.

3. Ford Mondeo

Perhaps one of the greatest automotive turnarounds of all time, the Ford Mondeo was a midsized car first produced in 1993. Available as a four-door saloon, five-door hatchback, and an estate, it received favourable reviews for its handling and comfort.

2. Ford Fiesta

Discontinued in 2023 after 47 years of production, Ford released a variety of models of the Fiesta throughout the 1990s. Notably, the third-generation model, which had a top speed of 133 mph, and the Mk4, an extensibly revised version with improved handling and modern safety features.

1. Ford Escort

At the top of the list for being an iconic 90s classic, the Ford Escort was a practical, family-friendly car produced from 1990 to 2001. Finally replaced by the Ford Focus, the final version of the Escort had improved on many of the features lacking in its first iteration, including reliable ride quality and low ownership costs.

Top selling cars of the 90s - Final thoughts

There you have it, the most popular cars of the 1990s. As we've seen, the 90s saw a rise in the popularity of small, reliable hatchbacks. With an extra focus on comfort and safety, the cars of the 90s certainly didn't compromise on style and design.

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