Britain’s best-selling car in 1986 was the fourth-generation Ford Escort. In aptly named Popular spec, it had a 50hp 1.1-litre engine that could wheeze to 62mph in 18.2 seconds and nudge 90mph.

Almost four decades since it made its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Estonian firm Kalmar Automotive has unveiled its own take on the 959 at The Quail: the 9X9. Available in standard ...