Pre-facelift models used the same 300bhp 4.2-litre V8 as the preceding XK8, whereas facelift cars upped the ante with a 380bhp 5.0-litre unit. There were supercharged R versions of both, with 420bhp and 503bhp, which make a hell of a noise, and then there was the XKR-S, ramping up output to 542bhp.
JAGUAR XK 2005-2014, £5000-£30,000
The facelift is worth it, because the newer engine is smoother and keener to rev. Best of all, the XK is pretty impressive as a daily. The rear seats obviously aren’t stellar, but even sixfooters can get comfy up front, and it’s reasonably frugal, all things considered.
MAZDA MX-5 2005-2015, £1500-£10,000
Historically, this has been the least-loved version of one of the best-loved cars. It didn’t quite capture the imagination like the first two. It seemed, if anything, slightly too refined. Perceptions change, though, and the NC is fast becoming a sensible buy, largely due to being less prone to rusting than its predecessors.
MAZDA MX-5 2005-2015, £1500-£10,000
There are two engines to choose from: a 125bhp 1.8-litre or a 158bhp 2.0-litre, which usefully comes with a limited-slip differential and a six rather than a five-speed manual. The latter is a bit more money, but you would, wouldn’t you?
The steering is precise and communicative, the chassis fluid, the ride comfortable, the engine bulletproof, the face smiley. There’s not a lot to worry about.
RENAULT MEGANE RS 2004-2009, £4000-£10,000
Renault’s performance arm never got the naming strategy of its hot hatches quite right, but that isn’t so troublesome with the second Mégane, because you will know it as the one with the big bum.
RENAULT MEGANE RS 2004-2009, £4000-£10,000
The RS was launched to mixed reviews, before Renault saw fit to improve the steering for the Trophy, which was limited to 160 cars. We wouldn’t recommend one, as they command a premium, but we would opt for a Cup model, because these had largely the same upgrades but weren’t restricted in build numbers and are now cheaper as a result.