Daihatsu Applause (MS-X90/A101S/A111S). 1989–2000 (prod. 22,000 approx.). 5-door sedan. F/F, F/A, 1589 cm³ (I4 OHC). Developed during the bubble economy, Applause was less related to a similarly sized Toyota Corolla. Unusual in its segment for its five-door configuration but four-door silhouette. Gained a poor reputation early on with reports of petrol ejecting from the fuel tank under high pressure, with the possibility of fire, leading to a recall. Daihatsu’s reputation was damaged in the incidents, which received wide coverage in Japan. Minor changes in 1992, four-wheel-drive model deleted 1994, facelift in 1997. A particularly long life, but only because Daihatsu lacked the budget to replace it.

Manufacturing location: Japan

Marque: Daihatsu | Predecessor: Daihatsu Charmant (1981–7)