From 1983 until the GTE’s launch in 1988 the SR was the quickest Nova in the range and featured stiffer suspension, 3-spoke alloy wheels, sports seats, a 5-speed gearbox and a new 1.3-litre OHC engine. It was a quick, attractive, and economical proposition when launched at just £4,975 and stacked up well against competition such as the MG Metro which cost a similar amount but only had a 4-speed gearbox. The Nova, especially in insurance friendly 1.3SR form, became the cult car of the 1990's Max Power movement and this, combined with their popularity in various forms of amateur motorsport, has made them surprisingly rare today.