Car Reviews: 1994 Chevrolet Beretta

Throughout automotive history, there have been many, many cars which have been produced for a few years only to fail in producing the proper sales numbers, and thus have been destined to fall into obscurity. However, some of these such vehicles manage to stick around a little bit longer, despite their limited production runs. In fact, a select few manage to become desirable and somewhat sought after cars. While the Chevrolet Beretta is definitely one car which has managed to fade from the production market, it is hard to argue that the vehicle has been forgotten about. However, does the Beretta deserve the reputation that it has been given?

From the outside, it is somewhat easy to see part of what has made the Beretta so popular. While it doesn't look a whole lot different from anything else that Chevrolet produced in the early 90's, it still manages to retain a bit of individuality and a bit of class. The angled front headlights, low front bumper spoiler and distinctive shape manage to make the Beretta at least look somewhat intimidating. The factory side skirts and the distinctive tail lights and rear spoiler of the Beretta also greatly contribute to the overall exterior appearance of the vehicle. While it is fair to say that the Beretta may never be considered one of the most iconic vehicles throughout automotive history, it is nonetheless a vehicle whose design still commands respect, even twelve years after it has been made, a feat that few cars can aspire too.

While the exterior of the car seems to have aged very well, sadly, the same cannot be said for the interior. Although the car does incorporate some interesting features, such as center console mounted window controls, and still has some of the most comfortable seats to be found in a car, the rest of the interior design just leaves something to be desired. Perhaps it's a case of having too little in too much space, but the interior looks open, and although that does contribute to the surprising amount of space in the car, it really doesn't give an overall attractive appearance when it comes to interior design. However, the interior is functional, and drivers will likely have an easy and fun time piloting the Beretta to whichever destination they have in mind.

However, how much fun is that actual driving? In all honesty, it is somewhat of a mixed bag. While the car does handle very nicely, the immense weight of the vehicle keeps it from being a speed demon. The optional V6 engine, which puts out around 165 horse power just seems underpowered when coupled to the automatic transmission. If one is lucky enough to be able to find one of the rare models equipped with the five speed manual transmission, than it can be said that the Beretta definitely has a little bit of juice, although the manual transmissions only came paired with the 2.3 liter four cylinder engine. That being said, acceleration isn't all that impressive, but the car is fun to drive nonetheless, it handles decently well, the acceleration is acceptable, but there's just something else that makes the Beretta such an impressive car, even by today's standards.

While it may not be the flashiest thing on the market, and may even be somewhat hard to find in today's day and age, the Chevrolet Beretta nonetheless remains a sought after vehicle, and one which is almost guaranteed to bring fun and a smile to anyone who drives it. Considering the very low price that Berettas can be attained for today, it seems almost a sure bet, just remember to give the car a careful inspection before purchasing.