The Suzuki Cultus, known as the Geo Metro and Chevrolet Metro in the United States, was a budget-friendly car that found its way into American markets in the 1980s. This article focuses on a 2000 Suzuki Swift, a later model of the Cultus, that was recently discovered in a Denver junkyard. Despite its low price tag of just $9,099 in its time, the Swift managed to rack up close to 150,000 miles during its lifespan.
### The History of the Suzuki Cultus
The Suzuki Cultus made its debut in the United States in 1985 under the Chevrolet Sprint badge. Its second-generation models were rebranded as the Geo Metro and Chevrolet Metro, while Suzuki continued to sell the same car with Swift badges through its dealerships. The affordable price point of the Cultus made it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
### Features of the 2000 Suzuki Swift
The 2000 Suzuki Swift came equipped with a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine that delivered 79 horsepower. While the base transmission was a five-speed manual, this particular model was fitted with a $650 automatic transmission. Despite being a compact and cheaply made vehicle, the Swift managed to achieve a respectable mileage before ending up in the junkyard.
### Signs of Wear and Tear
The Suzuki Swift in the Denver junkyard showed signs of rust, particularly on the door sills. This type of rust often indicates underlying structural damage to important chassis components like suspension mounting points. The condition of the Swift suggests that it was a dealership trade-in that failed to attract any buyers, ultimately leading to its demise in the junkyard.
### Obama-Biden Campaign Sticker
A glimpse into the past was revealed on the rear glass of the Suzuki Swift, with an early Obama-Biden 2008 campaign bumper sticker. This added a touch of history to the car, showing its presence during a significant political event.
### The Legacy of the Suzuki Cultus
Despite its humble beginnings as an econobox, the Suzuki Cultus left a mark on the American automotive market. With its affordable price point and practicality, the Cultus, in its various iterations, provided reliable transportation for budget-conscious consumers. The discovery of the 2000 Suzuki Swift in a junkyard serves as a reminder of its durability and longevity, even in its final resting place.