HONDA CIVIC 3D HATCHBACK (1995-1999)
TRAGICALLY discontinued too soon, the range-topping Civic offered exhilarating power from its 1.6-litre VTEC engine. Just rev it to high heaven. Add a great ride, superb handling and grip, room for four, plenty of features and Honda quality and reliability for an irresistible and high-quality hot-hatch.

TOYOTA CELICA 2D LIFTBACK (1994-1999)
THE top-selling Celica delivers great handling but ride quality suffers and road noise is intrusive. Celica's Camry-derived four- cylinder engine, while somewhat powerful and torquey, hates to rev - hardly the stuff of sports cars. Equipment levels are low but reputation and quality are high.

HONDA INTEGRA 2D COUPE (1993-2001)
AGEING but still stylish, comfortable, well made and well equipped (air-conditioning was standard from March 1996), the GSi makes a sensible sporty hatch/coupe. The non-VTEC, 1.8-litre, four-cylinder engine is smooth, punchy and economical. Ride and handling are good but the steering is a little lifeless.

HOLDEN CALIBRA 2D COUPE (1995-1998)
EUROPEAN with previous generation Vectra chassis and a rorty Aussie-built, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine, the still stunningly beautiful Calibra is great value. The cabin is roomy, slightly gloomy but practical and well equipped. Stodgy steering, dull handling and sluggish auto option will not delight enthusiasts.