John. Review on Tata Estate

It is of course true that the Estate is a state-of-the-art car. I still love driving my dad's 1999 model Estate. It doesn't lack any of the features that the latest luxury sedans have. Power steering, power windows, rear wiper, stylish looks and most of all comfortable leg room, etc. I remember we were 13 people once cruising thru the highway without even the slightest tire. But on the aesthetics factor, the Estate really lags behind. The decorative geometry wasn't well designed and produced. Especially the door locks, pads, electric switches are not durable. it is highly susceptible to rattling noises, which is poor for its class. I think TATA was concerned only about the performance, so ignored the durability. But even now, for its price, one can always buy an Estate and spot the best tinker in town and lavishly spend a few thousands to make it all. That's it; a first class sedan is at hand. It is also true that Estate needs some extra care than the others, but that’s essential for every vehicle. Maintenance determines the longevity. Estate needs only a lil bit extra! But if you are someone looking for real good car with all features of a luxury sedan (Optra, Elantra, Corolla) with high degrees of performance (Qualis, Safari) and good mileage (Indica, Tavera) and still costs low(Omni, maruti 800)...Estate has all in it. It's much smaller that the latest INNOVA, so big-size isn't an issue. I'm sure that in a few years it’s gonna be one of the most preferred Vintage cars.

Also, I remember reading a comparison with the Mercedes Estate with TATA Estate. It concluded that though the idea of the Estate was derived from the Mercedes Estate, TATA lags behind many standard features and stunning looks that the Mercedes has. But I had a chance to see the Mercedes Estate. Honestly, our Tata Estate is much cooler than that. The Mercedes one looks very old and may be best in its time but can never beat the Estate. I think TATA has implemented the idea of Estate, the saloon type, on Indigo Marina. But yet, Estate is my favorite. I own a chevy optra, but still enjoy driving my dad's Estate...she's really my sweet heart!

• John