New 2U heroes

Basic RWD thrills, now half-price Only very small children fit in the back

If you’re looking for a secondhand car, have we a treat for you. Our top used choices in all categories. Woop!

The car that proved that motoring journalists know nothing. Lauded by the press as a total driving hero and heir to some sort of nebulous automotive superstardom, the GT86 sold in relatively modest numbers to the UK driving public, who clapped loudly at the idea and then immediately eschewed the rear-wheel drive chassis, manual ’box and naturally aspirated engine and went and bought a billion AWD, DSG and turbo VW Golf Rs.

But that’s not to say that the press were wrong about the hero bit. Both the GT86 and sister car the Subaru BRZ (which is exactly the same, bar the badges) are something of a wonderful anomaly. Why? Because this is a car that can appeal to both the old-school traditionalists and bright young things. The fat four has a notably subterraneanslash-chaise-longue layout thanks to the arrangement of boxing cylinders – the GT86 actually has a lower c of g than a contemporary Porsche Boxster – and it drives only the rear wheels with a modest 197bhp. Obviously the only ’box to have is the 6spd manual (light, useful, balanced, if a bit notchy), although there was/is a torque-converted auto gearbox available. Not ideal, because it highlights the 2.0-litre’s lack of torque and generous upper ratios. But the low c of g, light and tactile controls and modest tyre widths make the GT86 a rare thing: a car that isn’t about the numbers. When you fnd that the GT86 is a connected, joyous, usable thing flled with character, you’ll be smitten. It’s the simplicity that appeals – it’s something of an antidote to cars that go fast but feel nothing. It’s a gem – and one of a rapidly decreasing number of cars that give you rear-drive feel for reasonable money.

One we found...

Nearly new (3,200 miles), good colour, fully manufacturer-approved. And about £10k off list.