5 Cars For Thrill Seekers On A Budget

Words by Rob McSorley

For a large percentage of drivers a car is designed to get from A to B with minimal fuss but for a lot of people a car should be thrilling to drive. It should make you smile and cherish every journey regardless of how long it is. It is easy to think that an exciting car commands a high asking price but as we prove here you can get your hands on an exciting motor for very little cash.

1. Peugeot 106 GTi

Launched in 1996 the cheeky 106 GTi was Peugeot’s next hot-hatch after the iconic 205 GTi. Based on the same core values of a lightweight body and feisty engine the 106’s normally aspirated 1.6-litre 16v engine produced a very decent 120 bhp. With a kerb weight of just 950 kg it could rocket to 60 mph in just 8.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 128 mph. 

Performance wasn’t the only alluring trait of the 106 GTi. It was incredibly nimble with limpet-like grip levels and superb body control thanks to its unusual torsion bar rear suspension. It also had a powerful set of brakes with all-round discs and ABS to help reduce the monstrous lift-off oversteer. For such as focused drivers car the 106 had a ride that could shame a lot of much larger cars and could be specified with premium options such as leather seats and even air conditioning.

Peugeot did a good job of tarting up the GTi to differentiate it from more modest versions with alloy wheels, arch extensions, lower sills and butch bumpers. Perhaps the best part was that later in its life the little 106 GTi has its limelight stolen by its Saxo VTS cousin so is now a lot rarer on the roads and also has a better reputation.

How Much? From £600

2. Mazda MX5

Launched in 1990 the Mazda MX5 was a roadster that would capture the hearts of buyers throughout the world which explains why it remained on sale with the same basic design until 2005. It was originally powered by a 118 bhp 1.6-litre then later a 128 bhp 1.8 litre petrol engine. With its front-engined rear wheel drive layout and low kerb weight the little MX5 wasn't particularly quick but it was a joy to drive.

With a low slung cabin, low centre of gravity and even weight distribution the MX5 was able to turn the dullest of roads into hilariously fun roller coaster rides. With brilliant grip from its strangely thin tyres it could carry plenty of speed into and out of corners with its balanced yet predictable handling.

With Mazda’s superb reputation for reliability the MX5 was an easy car to live with and offered good levels of space and comfort for its two passengers. The boot was also a good size although early cars had fragile interior trim but this was later improved. Running costs were low so anyone could park the cheeky looking MX5 on their drive.

How Much? From £700

3. Ford Puma

Launched in 1997 the Puma was a very clever little coupe in that it shared a lot with the Fiesta including its chassis and interior but you would never know. That's because it was wrapped in a svelte body that looked sporty, unique and youthful. From the dark feline front lights to the swooping roofline the Puma turned heads from the moment it left the showroom.

On the road the Puma was a joy with crisp handling, beautifully direct steering and plenty of zest from the fizzy 1.7-litre 16v petrol engine that kicked out 125 bhp. It was huge fun on any road but still offered good levels of comfort. It was also blessed with a good sized boot and plenty of room for front seat passengers. Its rear seats however were best left for very occasional use.

The interior was lifted straight from its Fiesta cousin so is smart enough with clear dials but hasn't aged too well. It is also a little short of creature comforts including an adjustable driving position.

How much? From £800

4. Mitsubishi Shogun Pinin

Launched in 2000 Mitsubishi’s smallest go-anywhere 4x4 was a rugged little car for those who look for their thrills off the beaten track. Named after Pininfarina who styled the Pinin you would expect a sexy look but unfortunately what you got was a tall, upright design.

Available in both long and short wheelbases with 3 or 5 doors the Pinin appealed to a range of buyers. Inside was a back-to-basics, hard wearing interior which made up for its lack of luxuries with plenty of space and a decent boot. 

On the road it wasn't much fun as it was slow, rolled through corners and jolted uncomfortably over the smallest of rutts in the road. But it was never intended to be a car for enthusiastic drivers. Instead it was equipped with all manner of diff-locking wizardry making the little Pinin a seriously capable car when the going got tough. For those who pushed the Pinin to it’s limits off-road were probably disappointed that it didn't really have any. But you were sure to have fun trying.

How Much? From £1,000

5. Ford Mondeo ST220

Launched in 2002 the MK3 Mondeo built on the broad talents of its predecessor which included sharp handling, luxury levels of refinement and a practical, well built interior. When Ford decided to shoehorn their 3.0-litre V6 engine under the bonnet it was a recipe for success. With 226 bhp on tap the ST220 could reach 60mph in just 7.5 seconds. Ford even produced an economical 2.2-litre TDCi diesel version for those who preferred to fill up from the black pump and an even more practical estate.

Ford also worked hard on the Mondeo’s suspension with lowered, stiffer springs and thicker anti-roll bars to cope with the additional power. The result was a large family car with the handling of something half its size yet still retaining a degree of comfort when not in a hurry. With direct steering and peerless body control the ST220 was a hoot to chuck around.

It also looked the part with bespoke 18 inch alloy wheels, mesh grills, twin exhausts and sill extensions. It also came with gorgeous leather seats with Recaros up front which were also available in an eye-popping red colour which were not for the fainthearted. 

The only problem was its thirst for petrol and its ability to munch through tyres. Still those who do fall for the ST220s charms will be grinning from ear-to-ear even on the shortest journeys.

How Much? From £1,600

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