Not everyone in the market for a classic hot hatch has sufficient funds for an immaculate MkI Golf GTI.
It’s one of the most iconic models in today’s modern-classic market, and its current asking prices reflect this. But don’t despair, because even with a tight budget it’s possible to go down the classic hot hatch route.
Alright, so the models featured here aren’t the most famous hot hatches, nor are they all among the most successful. But they’re fun to drive, cheap to buy and entertaining to own – which is surely what proper hot hatch motoring is all about? Check out our go-faster bargains – and let us know which one appeals the most.
SEAT Ibiza GTI
The SEAT Ibiza MkII of 1993-on was the first developed since Volkswagen’s takeover of the Spanish firm and was based on the next-generation Polo’s platform. As you might expect, the latest Ibiza ended up being an excellent basis for a hot hatch – resulting in various go-faster versions. Things kicked off with the initial GTI before the launch of the subsequent Cupra and Cupra R models – with 154 and 178bhp respectively from their 1.8-litre turbocharged motors. Find one now and it makes an interesting alternative to a Golf GTI, with the same reliability but none of the predictability.
Peugeot 306 XSi
So outstanding was the handling of the 1993-on Peugeot 306, it was inevitable that Peugeot would launch an array of hot hatch versions to replace the old 309 GTi. And that’s exactly what happened, with the eventual 167bhp GTi-6 being the most desirable – although you’ll struggle to find an excellent example on a tight budget. Don’t worry though because you can find a Peugeot 306 XSi, still with 135bhp under its bonnet and the same superb grip and sharp steering. It might not look dramatic but the Peugeot 306 XSi provides real entertainment value.
Alfa Romeo 146
Launched in 1995, the Alfa Romeo 146 was the sporting hatch for those who needed five-door versatility. Its styling might not be to everyone’s taste, but there’s no knocking its family-friendly credentials. And with a choice of charismatic flat-four engines or the flagship 2.0-litre Twin Spark (pushing out an entertaining 155bhp), it’s a car with plenty of Italian brio. It wasn’t a huge seller in the UK, but the Alfa Romeo 146 is a model well worth seeking out if you value individuality as much as outright power.
MG ZR
Funds were tight for MG Rover from the outset but what the company achieved in 2001 with its launch of the Rover 25-based MG ZR and 45-based ZS was little short of miraculous, transforming a pair of worthy but unexciting Rovers into eye-catching, sharp-handling, high-performing hatches and saloons. Okay, the entry-level ZR105 wasn’t exactly a ball of fire, but it was still fun. At the top of the tree sat the 2.5-litre V6-engined ZS180, with 177bhp on tap.
Citroen Saxo VTR
Launched in 1996, the Citroen Saxo came into its own the following year when the Saxo VTR and VTS arrived, featuring 1587cc fuel-injected power – with 90bhp for the 8-valve VTR and 120bhp for the 16-valve Citroen Saxo VTS. Bear in mind that even the range-topping Citroen Saxo VTS tipped the scales at just 965kg and you see why these were (and still are) such entertaining little cars. Each one came with stiffened and lowered suspension, uprated brakes (including vented discs up front) and super-sharp steering, ensuring they could be thrown round corners at impressive speed.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
We couldn’t run a hot hatch feature without giving the Volkswagen Golf GTI a mention, even if a tight budget means that the most iconic models are beyond reach. Happily though, the MkIII is still available at bargain prices, although it’s best to avoid the regular 8v version thanks to its fairly lowly 115bhp output. By comparison, the Volkswagen Golf GTI 16v pushed out a respectable and entertaining 150bhp, while the V6-engined VR6 boasted 174bhp – increased to 190bhp in later years.
MINI Cooper
When BMW offloaded Rover in early 2000, it wisely chose to retain the MINI brand as an all-new model was in the final stages of development. Deliveries of the R50-generation MINI began in 2001 and the newcomer proved to be a major hit – selling strongly ever since. It's something of a modern classic, yet values of the earliest cars are still at rock bottom. Ignore the low-powered Mini One and treat yourself to a (115bhp) Cooper if you fancy a lively drive, or a supercharged (170bhp) Cooper S if you crave real performance.
Rover 114 GTa
The Rover Metro name was dropped for 1995, when Rover’s smallest model was rebranded as the Rover 100-series. It had another three years of life left in it and was an entertaining steer. Most desirable were the 1.4-litre models like the Rover 114 GTa shown here, with 74bhp at its disposal. In a car as small and lightweight as this, the inevitable result was lively performance, with a top speed of 105mph and 0-60 in about ten seconds. The Rover 100 GTa and GSi both offered the same output and are now bargains as used cars.
Fiat Cinquecento Sporting
We’re joking, right? Actually… we’re not. Admittedly, the regular Fiat Cinquecento was an unexciting bit of kit. But once its 899cc engine was replaced by Fiat’s 1.1-litre OHC lump for the Sporting version of 1994-on, the Fiat Cinquecento became one of the most entertaining – and best-value – small cars of its generation. With beefier suspension and a slicker five-speed transmission, the Fiat Cinquecento Sporting managed to feel… well, sporting. There might have been just 54bhp powering its front wheels, but this lightweight tot felt quick, handled and gripped well, and was guaranteed to bring a smile to any fun-loving driver’s face.
Proton Satria GTi
Proton may no longer sell in the UK but the Malaysian company was responsible for one of the most intriguing hot hatches of its generation. The GTi version of the Satria three-door hatchback was mostly developed by Lotus (verified by its ‘Handling by Lotus’ badges) and it showed. Combine impressive grip and flat cornering with a twin-cam 1.8-litre (138bhp) ex-Mitsubishi engine and you have a performance car of real ability. Launched in the UK in 1999, the Proton Satria GTi achieved only minor sales success, however, despite plenty of praise from those who drove it.
