Peugeot 205GTI (1984 – 1994) Review

It's going to be tricky to tick all these boxes. If you want something that turns heads, that normally means a premium model such as a Porsche. In which case, you'd be expected to have anything but the most basic oil and filter it serviced at a specialist. Plus, if you're after mod cons like power steering, air-con, decent stereo (and soundproofing) then you're looking at cars that are a bit more complicated. If you're after something that's easy to get in and out of and doesn't have harsh ride, then you may have to think outside the box. You could go for something traditional such as a Triumph Stag (assuming you want to keep it Triumph), which is still very much a classic two-seater with a great engine. Alternatively, look at 911 ownership for a bit of wow-factor, and a decent compromise between mod cons and specialist servicing... and don't discount the later Jaguar XJ-S. We know plenty of people who own Honda S2000s and are terrifically happy with them - stunning performance and reliability (see also Nissan 350Z). Sightly left of centre coupe options to consider - BMW 8-Series and Mazda RX-7 or RX-8 if you're feeling brave, Toyota Supra. We'd also have a look at hot hatches - cars like the Mk1 Golf GTi and Peugeot 205 GTI are excellent to drive, have reasonably mod cons, and can be maintained at home... they also have plenty of wow-factor. Perhaps something like a TVR Griffith would also suit you.

Your budget isn't enough to stretch to the high-end cars like Ferrari, and a modern classic within your price range needs to be a sports car if it's going to hold it's value - which excludes your criteria of it being a family car, and being inexpensive to tax and returning decent mpg. Perhaps something like a Renault Avantime would fit the bill? It's definitely a future classic and more than capable of moving the family. Failing that, there's a strong following for Land Rover, so a Defender might work - but it will feel very agricultural compared to your current vehicle. If you need something more middle of the road, try the new Ford Fiesta ST (although you'll have to ride the depreciation curve) or try and jump on the hot hatch wagon, with the Golf GTI or 205 GTI looking like good bets for an all-rounder.

The glass in hatchbacks of cars can crack and shatter if they are closed from a side rather from the centre. Happened to me years ago with a 205GTI and regularly happens to readers. I guess the same could happen with a glass panoramic roof if closing from one side imposed excess stress on the hinge at the top of the hatchback, but it's our first report of this received on an Evoque. If your only option is to spend £3000 (and you can't claim on insurance), it might be worth investigating having the pan roof replaced with an electric sliding canvas roof. Talk to Kahn Design or Bristol Sunroofs.

There is a massive following and consequently massive parts availability for Volkswagen Golf MK II GTI and GTI 16v. Not brilliantly reliable. Can be rust prone. But the enthusiasm of enthusiasts outweighs that and a well bought one should still be an investment. The Peugeot 205 GTI 1.6 drove and handled better and are fairly rust resistant, but of lighter construction so tend to deteriorate more. Also, take a look here: http://classics.honestjohn.co.uk/top-10s/top-20-classic-80s-hot-hatchbacks/