1.4e gets a bit breathless when pushed – go for the 1.6e or the newer 1.4 16v, which has 20bhp more than the older unit. Latest 1.6 16v is willing though not all that refined. The 1.8 16v is brisk, 2.0 is better suited to the coupé and cabriolet. 1.9D is a sluggard. Newer dTi and dCi turbo-diesels are a big improvement over the old 1.9 dT in terms of acceleration.

Cars up to 1999 had a different suspension set-up to those after. The earlier cars had comfortable suspension, but had too much bodyroll. Later cars were more controlled, but rode more roughly over potholed roads. Accurate steering, nimble handling.