Tata Safari [1998-2005]

Buying experience was easy as I had a good reliable mechanic in Hyderabad to advise, inspect and finalize for me. I have waited a month, looking, checking, insoecting for a good condition model Safari for a decent budget. "Not all vehicles esp SUVs age properly" is the reason it took me a month to find my SUV. Safari is Safari. I still remember my first ride and it was an amazing experience after riding low seating cars like Alto, Swift, Baleno and jumping into the SUV. View was simply great. I could see myself slightly sitting a bit low than a bus driver in my opposite lane. Ground clearance is that good. Initially the gear throws were long for me, but in no time I was habituated to it which I feel a major issue when I have to drive any pinky/small cars at times. It took me every where from "regular Indian " city roads, Highways, villages, no roads without any hassle. While back in my Alto/Swift potholes were bit uncomfortable to take on Safari ride quality is totally different. Tata Safari has decent looks, frequently used by politicians, military personnel for all terrains from desert to hills, from river crossings to deep muddy jungles, famous Ladhak trips and what not. The list is endless. If you maintain any car in appropriately it will work efficiently. It's a machine. One should be very cautious in selecting an any car aged above 10years. You should inspect every corner for any rusting/dents/ to avoid any further damage leading to burn your pockets. Small rubber coverings, battery, tyres should be taken care of. Check the condition of the vehicle before leaving for long drives to avoid any troubleshooting. Pros Comfort drive, ride quality, road presence, pot holes are comfortably taken out. Very spacious interior. Seating is comfortable, Doesn't feel tired after munching miles in a single stretch. Spare parts are easily available aftermarket. Exterior/interior if you want to spend money for upgrading then sky is the limit. The more you spend the beautiful it looks. After being addicted to safari with such a good road view, driving other cars will not be that great experience. Regarding safety this SUV is well built. There are many who have survived tata safari accidents and still ride the same machine confidently. Cons Stock headlights throw aren't that effective. Need to check the window motors. Parking at times can be bit painful in congested areas., though I usually don't prefer such. Fuel economy as similar to all huge, bulk SUVs. In case your AC doesn't work or any issues with AC on sunny day, the scorching sun will exhaust you. (A small fan can be used as sos in such cases temporarily though). Drive it to feel it. I can keep on writing on this amazing machine.