1.Exterior /Looks /Apearence
3rd gen
2.Performance /Acceleration/Speed.
2nd gen. (Only in 1.5 catagory)
3.Handling/Stablility/safety
3rd gen
4.Ride Comfort/Suspension.
Definately 1st gen but crystal lights wala model i.e 2001-3
Was More comfortable than our 1.6 gli auto and reborn
5.Maintainence/spares.
It changes with time.
Definitely you can get 3rd gen parts more easily.Although 3rd gen is uncomfortable but it is still very solid car with same build quality as before
6.Fuel Consumption.
I think 3rd gen is more efficient because of electronic sterring