HONDA INTEGRA 2D COUPE (1993-1999)
NOT a leader in the outright performance race but very impressive with variable valve timing, twin cam, 16-valve. 1.8-litre engine giving sporty performance. Front-wheel drive through five-speed manual box and well equipped with driver's airbag, anti-lock brakes, alloy wheels, central locking, power mirrors, steering and windows, electric sunroof and metallic paint, but no standard air until 1996.

FORD FALCON 4D SEDAN (1995-1996)
BUILT at Ford's Tickford special vehicles branch, the XR6 has pin-sharp handling and performance not much short of a V8. Fuel- injected, OHC 4.0-litre, straight six engine drives the rear wheels through four-speed auto or five-speed manual. Driver's airbag, anti-lock brakes, alloy wheels, limited slip diff, power front windows, mirrors and steering and central locking are standard.

HOLDEN COMMODORE 4D SEDAN (1995-1996)
IN some people's eyes the Aussie V8 is the ultimate performance machine. The gutsy 5.0-litre V8 is coupled to a four-speed auto or five-speed manual, driving the rear wheels. Independent rear suspension and limited slip differential help get the torque to the road. Standard equipment includes driver's airbag, air- conditioning, alloy wheels, cruise control, central locking, fog lights, power mirrors and steering, sports seats and rear spoiler.

MITSUBISHI LANCER 4D SEDAN (1992-1996)
LIKE the WRX, the Lancer is the basis of a World Rally Championship winner. Sensational performance from the four- cylinder turbocharged and intercooled twin cam, 16-valve, 1.8- litre engine, driving all wheels through a five-speed manual box. Anti-lock brakes, alloy wheels, power steering and windows are standard. Great performance value.