HYUNDAI COUPE FX 2D COUPE (1996-1999)
THIS is the good-looking and popular one before '99's hideous facelift. The Hyundai FX Coupe (hatch actually) sports a lusty 101kW 2.0 twin-cam engine, Porsche-honed handling, a long equipment list and a suitably sporty cabin. Fun to drive, they're now cheap, although quality and durability questions remain.

PEUGEOT 405 4D SEDAN (1989-1996)
AT launch the D60 405 Mi16 was considered one of the world's best handling sports sedans, with poise and abilities far beyond its humble front-drive origins. But despite its gutsy and sonorous 1.9 twin-cam motor, the post-'93 D70 2.0 model's greater refinement, safety and comfort make it the better car.

TOYOTA CELICA 2D LIFTBACK (1994-1999)
THIS is the dullest of recent Celicas, with a Camry-derived 2.2-litre engine that is neither sporting nor especially pleasant. Just loud and torquey. Early SX equipment levels were sparse, so aim for later-'90s models. Comfort, practicality are durability are impressive, but that's hardly sexy now, is it?

HOLDEN CALIBRA 2D COUPE (1995-1998)
THE beautiful Calibra is spacious and practical but no sports car. The 110kW 2.0 twin-cam engine is reasonably punchy, plus there's a sunroof, airbag and air-conditioning. But autos make do with an 85kW lump, while handling, ride and gearchange in all models are below-par. Never sold strongly either.