AUDI 90 4D SEDAN (1989-1992)
AN under-rated rival to BMW and Mercedes. The 90 Sport has a powerful 2.3-litre, five-cylinder engine driving the front wheels through a three-speed auto or five-speed manual box. All independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes are standard, as are air-conditioning, alloy wheels, central locking, power steering/windows and a radio/cassette.

MERCEDES-BENZ 190 4D SEDAN (1984-1990)
THE benchmark for quality and safety, although the 2.0-litre engine and heavy weight give disappointing performance. Ride comfort and handling are superb. Choice of five-speed manual or four-speed auto. Air-conditioning, power steering, power windows and radio/cassette are standard.

SAAB 900 4D SEDAN (1988-1991)
BRISTLING with character and a superb open-road performer. Front- wheel drive with a 2.0-litre, DOHC, 16-valve engine and choice of three-speed auto or five-speed manual. Air-conditioning, central locking, power steering/windows and radio/cassette standard. The last real (ie non-GM developed) compact Saab.

MAZDA 626 4D SEDAN (1992-1997)
THE Japanese pretender with performance and quality of finish to challenge the Germans. A 2.5-litre, DOHV, 24-valve V6 drives the front wheels through a four-speed auto or five- speed manual. Air-conditioning, alloy wheels, cruise control, CD player, central locking, fog lights, power mirrors, steering and windows, and radio/cassette standard.