3 Turbocharged Turds The 1980s Tried To Hide

Nissan Micra Superturbo

The Micra Superturbo (aka March in Asia) was produced in 1988 and was powered by a supercharged and turbocharged version of the model's four-pot 0.9-litre petrol engine. The unit produced 108bhp, which was good enough to launch the 800kg turd to 62mph in 7.7sec, before hitting its 112mph max speed. Just 10,000 STs were made and it remains the fastest Micra in the model's 31-year history. Features of the maxi-Micra included a limited slip-diff and the option of electric mirrors. Fabulous.

MG Metro Turbo

Yup, the MG Metro was another blown turd that the 80s was trying to hide from us. Its Lotus-fettled and turbocharged 1.3-litre unit sneezed out 93 wheezing horses, which would cart the Metro to 60mph in 8.9sec, with top speed achieved at 115mph. The Turbo's highlight features included sporty red seat belts, flared arches and two-tone paint. Unfortunately, the Metro Turbo was afflicted with a weak gearbox, which meant those fancy belts would see limited use.

Renault 9/11 Turbo

1982's Car of the Year was available in either hatchback (Renault 11) or saloon (Renault 9) guises. And both were offered with the same turbocharged engine you'd have found in the Renault 5 Turbo. The blown 1.4-litre unit produced 115bhp, giving the 9/11 a top speed of 120mph, with 60mph achieved in under nine seconds. Thanks their lightweight bodies and four-metre lengths, the 9 and 11 models were known for their epic lift-off oversteer tendencies.