ALFA ROMEO 33 5D HATCHBACK (1990-1992)
BUYING an Alfa is a decision made by the heart, not the head. Exciting but not always practical, the 33 has lively performance and sports car handling. Available in manual only.

CITROEN BX 5D HATCHBACK (1989-1994)
THE Citroen is another acquired taste. Complex but an impressive performer with hydro-pneumatic suspension and a lively 1.9-litre, 16-valve engine. Five-speed manual gearbox only. Servicing is specialised and expensive.

MITSUBISHI GALANT 5D HATCHBACK (1990-1993)
THIS 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, 16-valve contender, available in five-speed manual only, is rather bland with competent but unexciting road manners. Well equipped with alloy wheels, climate control, central locking and power steering standard.

MAZDA 626 4D SEDAN (1987-1992)
THE 12-valve, 2.2-litre engine gives great torque making city driving easy with both four-speed auto or five-speed manual. It is loaded with good gear, including climate control, alloy wheels, sunroof, power steering, electric windows and central locking.