HONDA EG CIVIC VTI 4D SEDAN (1993-1995)
THE Civic sedan does not have the performance of the GSR or four- wheel drive. The 1.6-litre engine uses Hondas V-TEC valve timing technology to produce 95kW which makes the VTI the most powerful Civic. The equipment, which includes a sunroof and, from 1994, a driver's airbag, is competitive.

ALFA ROMEO 33 4D SEDAN (1991-1992)
THE Alfa Permanent 4 looks smart and its full-time four-wheel drive system gives it good roadholding and traction. The 1.7- litre, flat four engine has enough power (95kW) but lacks low- speed torque. Most people will not like the unnatural driving position with offset pedals.

SUBARU IMPREZA 4D SEDAN (1994-2000)
THE WRX took the turbocharged, four-wheel drive formula a stage further. With 155kW produced from the 2.0-litre, flat four- cylinder engine, the Impreza is even faster than the GSR. The comfortable interior with comparable equipment to the Lancer makes the WRX a practical, affordable performance car.

FORD KH LASER 3D HATCHBACK (1991-1992)
THE two-door TX3 has a turbocharged, 1.8-litre engine with an output of 117kW so the performance is good but does not match the Lancer. The four-wheel drive layout and equipment level are similar to the Lancer but there are no anti-lock brakes or cruise control.