MK1 Honda Civic Type-R

• Date built: 2001-2006

• Price range: £5,000-£13,000

• Engine: 2.0-litre i-VTEC 197bhp

• 0-60mph: 6.4 Seconds

• Top speed: 146mph
  

WHY

This car has one of the best engines ever built. When the VTEC system cuts in at 6,000rpm, the Type-R buggers off like it’s got a rocket up its exhaust. It sounds terrific, too.

PRICE

High mileage models cost as little as £5,000. For a two-year-old with air con you’re looking at about £13,000.

CHECK

Hondas are notoriously well built – that’s why old folks love ’em. But not this model – it’s a boy racer’s favourite. Buy one with a full service history – you don’t want the engine going pop at 120mph.

IMAGE

Don’t buy this car if you mind looking like an extra from The Fast And The Furious or attracting traffic police.

PRACTICALITY

The boxy shape means it can easily seat five. Women will probably whinge about the hard ride – no, not that kind – although, being a hatchback, the rear seats fold down if you do come across a secluded lay-by.

RUNNING COSTS

It only does 32mpg, so you’ll be forking out around £1,325 a year in fuel. Road tax is £205 a year and insurance could be a killer as the Type-R is in group 17. Still, maybe it’s time your girlfriend started paying for stuff.

www.autotrader.co.uk