Toyota GT86 £12,480

Prices for a new GT86 start from £27,285 before discount. It’s a hard pill to swallow given the Mazda MX-5, an equally delightful car to drive, starts at £18,995 and the RF hard-top version £22,595. The GT86 has rear-drive thrills aplenty up its sleeve but, if it feels like a stretch too far, let us help out by suggesting you check out a used one.

Something like the 2014/63-reg GT86 we found with 40,000 miles on the clock for £12,480, for sale at a specialist dealer. The one-owner car has full Toyota service history and, judging by the photos at least, looks to be immaculate.

It’s a great saving on the list price and an excuse for us to harp on about what to look for when buying a used GT86. Checking for crash damage (off-road excursions come easily to a poorly driven GT86) and that it has a full service history are obvious but also check for an oil weep from the right-hand cylinder gasket and listen for a sound like a cricket. It’s caused by faulty positioning of the plunger stopper inside the highpressure fuel pump. Alternatively, if it makes a clacking sound, it’s okay. You just have to know your clicks from your clacks.

It’s a sports car so check the gearbox, especially second gear engagement when cold. If it’s particularly graunchy, a change of fluid might help. A rattle from the gearlever above 4000rpm was a warranty issue.

Check what tyres it’s wearing. Michelin Primacys give good tail-out action. Finally, expect some cabin rattles from the rear seats, parcel shelf and lower dash. Tweeter and engine covers like a good shimmy too. All good? Then buy it!