Confessions of an Automationeer, Part 203: Starter Motors

Confessions of an Automationeer, Part 203: Starter Motors

One of my more recent challenge builds may have been very cheap, but it was also very cheerful. I'm talking about the 1989 AMS Abella 1.6iS 16v - but I'll explore the whole range as well in this post. The 1.6iS, as the flagship of the range, packed a naturally aspirated 120-horsepower 1.6-liter straight four into its tiny body, and sent it to the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox and helical limited-slip differential. In a car weighing 800 kilograms, this modest output yielded a 0-60 mph time of just under 8 seconds, but when paired with 4-wheel vented disc brakes and lower, firmer suspension compared to those found in lesser trims, the result was one of the most entertaining compact performance cars of its time. And with all five occupants able to enjoy standard-fit air conditioning and a cassette tape stereo, it was more comfortable and economical than you'd expect a subcompact of this era to be.

Above, from top: The 1989 AMS Abella 1.6iS 16v may look unassuming, but thanks to clever engineering, is not only cheap, but also cheerful to drive.

On the other hand, the entry-level 1.2 trim, with its 70bhp engine, is meant for budget-conscious shoppers looking for an bargain-basement offering that comes with the bare essentials. Narrower wheels and tires and softer suspension give it a more comfortable feel, while drum brakes are fitted at the rear to save costs. The most important visual feature, however, is the use of plastic (rather than color-coded) bumpers with no fog lights.

Above: The basic Abella 1.2i 16v sits at the bottom of the range, with less standard equipment than the other trim levels, but still provides enough to deliver a value-packed experience.

In between the two is the 1.4i 16v - a mid-range trim level positioned between the 1.2 and 1.6iS in terms of price, performance and standard equipment.

Above, from top: While not as fast as the 1.6iS, the 1.4i trim adds some extra standard equipment to the Abella (alloy wheels, upgraded stereo, and 4-wheel disc brakes) for a more upmarket experience.

In short, the 1989 Abella may be a small and cheap subcompact, but it provides great value for money throughout the range, and in 1.6iS guise, a surprisingly sporty driving experience comparable to that which is normally reserved for more expensive machinery.