13. Mazda 323/Protegé (1980)
The Mazda 323, known as the Protegé in North America, was introduced in 1980 and quickly became a global success. Its compact size, reliability, and efficient design made it a popular choice in diverse markets. The 323’s versatility, available in various body styles and configurations, set a standard for compact hatchbacks and sedans, influencing the design and expectations of affordable vehicles worldwide. (edmunds.com)