Fiat Bravo, Subaru Impreza WRX, Vauxhall VXR8, Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Mazda RX7 Type RB
Lotus Exige S
"I've always wanted a track focused car for the weekends when we get that rare bit of sun. I previously ran a Impreza STI Widetrack as a daily driver and track toy, but trying to live with its firm coilovers and snatchy performance clutch was easier said than done on a daily basis! So with this in mind I've always fancied an Exige S if I had something more sensible for a daily hack. This one in particular has an outstanding spec list, not to mention a meticulous service history. This would also fulfil my RWD requirements. Why wouldn't you choose it?!"
Nissan GT-R (R35)
Cost: £49,950
Balance: £21,055
Why I chose it: "As a fan of watching Subarus battling Mitsubishis in the WRC way back when, I've always had a soft spot for all-wheel drive cars. The GT-R was always a poster car of mine, from the R32 variant through to the current R35. I wanted a car I could munch up miles in on trips to the 'ring or Spa, lap the circuits very quickly and then cruise home in comfort after. This ticks all those boxes for me. This GT-R is a Recaro edition; also, as an 11-plated car, it gets essential software updates and a factory power boost as standard. Unmolested examples are now getting thin on the ground which is another reason this one stood out."
Skoda Octavia vRS Estate
-£934. Oops... (We'll let you off James, just this once - MB)
"Yes, I know, slightly over budget, but given the first two are private sellers I'm thinking a little money off might be had! So anyway, my final choice is what I would class as my sensible daily. I've always liked vRS Octavias - the recent breed even have some nice styling in my opinion. Given the cost of a VW rival this is definitely the thinking man's choice. Fully loaded, only 2,000 miles on the clock and a fruity engine - what's not to like? OK, maybe the name still brings a slight giggle to a conversation, but I think I could live with that given the three-car garage. This ticks the final box for my FWD car."