MAZDA MX-5 2.0i
2006, £3995, 45,000 miles
The Mk3 MX-5 now represents great value with the rev-happy 2.0-litre engine and limited-slip differential, which gives sublime handling balance. Beware engine oil starvation and rust on the sills and subframe.
TOYOTA RAV4 2.0 GX 4WD
1994, £2500, 140,000 miles
The original soft-roader could be the key to living your outdoor dreams this summer, being capable enough for a green lane or beachfront but not so expensive that you will be afraid of damaging it.
FORD S-MAX 2.5T TITANIUM
2008, £4995, 80,000 miles
Need to get the kids somewhere in a flash? This apparently ordinary MPV handles surprisingly dynamically and borrows its 2.5-litre turbocharged five-pot from the Focus ST hot hatch of the same era, making it genuinely rapid.
MERCEDES-BENZ SL 500
1995, £11,995,…