You might not recognise the car to the left, but it’s actually a Swift. Initially introduced to Japan as the Cultus, the model adopted a new name before making its way to Europe and the UK, one that would last well over 40 years. The Cultus was first launched in 1983 at the 25th Tokyo Motor Show and went head-to-head with the Toyota Starlet and Nissan Micra, but we reckon this 1987 model proves it has stood the test of time – not bad for 36 right?

In the UK, this Swift was sold in both three-door and five-door hatchback forms as well as a 1.3GTi three-door model. The 1987 ‘E’ registration car shown here has rightfully taken its place in our heritage fleet, alongside Barry Sheene’s Jimny, and will be well looked after by our team of engineers. Although, it seems to be doing pretty well for itself, it is currently road registered and historic status taxed, and there are just two other examples known in the UK.

It might not be the generation that got us featured on Top Gear, or named ‘Best value Hot hatchback for less than £15,000’ six years running from What Car?, but it is the model that made the team at headquarters reckon ‘Swift’ was a good match, so that certainly says something!

Launched in the UK in May 2005, you can see why there might have been an 18-month break between the end of production and the launch of the new model.

At the time, we had really wanted to set the precedent for how we meant to go on, strengthening our position as both a leading compact car manufacturer and one of the world’s biggest motorcycle brands. The result played to the Swift’s existing personality, making the car look sportier, and all around more fun, which in turn inspired the Swift Sport. Third time lucky right?

You probably know all there is to know about this Swift, from its hatchback styling that is undoubtedly Suzuki, and hybrid technology that provides competitive efficiency. But we didn't stop there...