TOYOTA CELICA ZR (1995-1999)
FEELING like the bland, rebodied Camry it was, style and sales suffered as this Celica sought refinement, comfort and excellent dynamics over sheer sportiness and zest. Blame the durable and frugal but coarse and lethargic 2.2-litre engine. ZR equipment levels are at least generous.

NISSAN S14 200SX SERIES II (1996-2000)
THE anti-Celica, wedgy Nissan coupe put the driver first with a punchy turbo 2.0, rear-wheel drive and snug, comfy cabin. But it’s a tight package and the chassis – while capable – isn’t really a match for all that power. Still, it’s streets ahead on cred.

FORD COUGAR (1999-2003)
NO sports car or sales star, the underrated, US-made, Ford Mondeo-based, front-wheel drive Cougar instead offers surprisingly good dynamics, a strong and silky 2.5 V6, lots of standard features, a spacious four-seater cabin and hatchback practicality.

BMW E36 318TI COMPACT (1996-2001)
A STRONG used proposition, the Compact’s impressive dynamics, comfort, front-seat space and practicality help keep its resale value firm. But its lacklustre engine, tight rear seat and dumpy styling put it in a different league to its far-lovelier E36 318iS Coupe cousin.