I spent 47 minutes of my life watching it, so you don’t have to. Here is the full list of cars they recommend buying it, divided according to their segment: 1. Toyota Yaris GR 2. Hyundai i30N, Audi RS3, BMW M 140i (a lot of divergences between them here) 3. Lexus IS 500, Lexus GSF 4. Skoda Octavia RS, Mitsubishi Evo 9 Wagon 5. Porsche Macan GTS 6. Mazda MX5 7. Subaru BRZ 8. Nissan R35 GTR 9. Porsche 911 (any of them from 997 onwards) 10. Lexus LC 500.
And no 2, I'd add the golf R just cause it's such a great daily and has AWD. The RS3 is great but it's twice the part The macan GTS is the only SUV I'd consider, next to a stelvio quadrifoglio.
Greetings from Dundee in Scotland, Found your channel at the beginning of the year and have been hooked ever since. I find it hard to believe you do not have seven figured subs but it will come when people realise what good content you have. Keep up the great work!
With the shutdown of local manufacturing, I believe driving a Commodore/Falcon is now a cool alternative choice. Dickheads and normies have mostly moved on to lifted 4x4 utes and SUVs. It takes a bit more thought and passion to choose to get into Australian cars now.
@@gdubyadubya8961 they're superb to drive. The VE/VF Commodore benchmarked the e39 530i. They had 50/50 weight distribution, independent suspension all around, available with a manual transmission and a range of good V8 engines. The Ford Falcon was available with the Barra Turbo, enough said.
Driving an Australian car never has and never will be cool. Yes the normies and fuckwits have mostly gone to 4x4s. But only the ultra fuckwits and meth heads have stuck with the Australian cars. Least cool cars ever made
I just sold my AZ1.. loved the car. Literally go cart for the road that puts a smile on your dial every time. Only sold it because it was hardly ever used 2 seater and I have 3 kids. I know I will regret it later down the track.
How tall are you? I'd love to have one but I'm 6'4" and the doors eat into whatever little headroom there is (I fit into a Cappuccino 25kg ago though lol).
Honestly you guys run such an amazing channel!! Please keep it up and don’t stop with those amazing videos and reviews. I do think there’s a little bit of a Lexus bias haha but I can’t see why not considering how good their cars are. Would love for you guys to talk more about your love for cars growing up and what you learnt from each car you owned and drove:)
Had an Abarth for 5 years. Nothing but driving joy was had from that ownership experience. Took it to the track, got some power, braking and tire mods and it was more than enough to beat cars twice the price in a tight circuit ❤
Stinger GT is great. If I had to pick a sedan, it would be between that one and a Giulia Veloce Genesis g70 can't really get in Europe, but that would be #1 if I could
Definitely!! Can't understand why the Stinger GT didn't get a mention. Not really an ideal track car, but a brilliant performance road car - fast, nimble, feels like a smaller car behind the wheel, comfortable - so a great long distance cruiser, roomy, good looking, relatively affordable for the performance, and they hold their value. 7 year warranty, reliable, trouble free ownership. I love mine and will be keeping it for a long time I think.
Reckon you guys need to do one for ‘older’ cars. It’s a bit hard to compare to stuff mentioned in this and the others in this series vids. Also given the nature of older kind of ‘collectable’ type cars, doing it on price rather than car shape / size categories. Just a thought anyway.
I have a 2013 swift sport and a 1960 Austin Healey Sprite. Both very fun and capable cars, both track proven with the Sprite still a popular track car 64 near 65 years later. Though they’re not “powerful”, the Sprite especially putting out 43hp from its 948cc A series, they’re both incredibly fun at normal speeds and I attribute this to weight or lack there of. The Swift coming in under 1000kg (I’ve done some weight reduction) and the Sprite at 630kg. It’s amazing what no power, lightweight can do.
Love the channel, your discourse about Commodores being like Cold Chisel because of association is just one reason to love the channel. Great social insights and great car reviews as a bonus.
Well done, another great episode. I note Porsche Boxster didn't get a mention in the convertible category and thought there must be Porsche related issues holding it back but in other categories you suggest any generation of Cayman and 911 as good things. I own an ND MX5 (GR86 too) but am curious why Boxster wouldn't receive an honourable mention in it's category?
reliability and build quality concerns but its the cheapest entry point to V8 ownership. But honestly id rather get an older RC F for the same price if i didnt need a manual. But manual wise theres no other affordable alternative than the stang
Great video as always guys, just awesome. Just realised I watched a full 50mins of a couple guys talking about cars in a workshop… does that make me an official bogan? 😂 +1 for the Skoda wagon! 🏁
This was well worth watching. I purchased the cheapest 987.2 Porsche Cayman in Australia at the time during the first lockdown (video coming one day). I drove it home the long way from Coffs Harbour and it was a brilliant (long day) introduction to my first Porsche, especially with Bose and 14 way seats...
I own a Skoda Octavia RS 125 diesel wagon. Have owned a decent selection of cars over the years, this is the most reliable car I’ve ever owned. I’d put in Peugeot 404/504 stratosphere for reliability, and just a great car to drive. The 245 I have not driven but the reviews appear to be universally great. Big fan. And the Škoda is a total sleeper.
Great video. 981 GT4 is the best sub 200k drivers car. Fight me if you want, you're wrong. Also any boxster or cayman with a manual gearbox and a flat six in it, well looked after, is untouchable for the money as a drivers car. GR86 also great car but I believe there are some class action noises being made around the engine. FL5. You need to drive one asap. Thanks again for the great content. I really enjoyed this video and it would be a good one to watch with a bunch of mates and pause and discuss/debate. Could fill a whole evening doing that!
As a Skoda octavia Vrs owner, I never imagined that my car would be on a 'performance' list. That being said, the thing is a keg of fun and I would be very reluctant to ever sell it.
Nissan Silvia/200SX from the 90's to early 2000's were cool coupes that can be rear wheel drive track day fun. I always wanted one in my younger years, but unfortunately by the time I could insure one in the UK most had rotted away, or were terribly modified/ruined or wrapped around a tree. I also think they look great in stock form even today.
I've got a 2012 Skoda Octavia RS Wagon and love it ... and only paid $10k for it over a year ago (sydney). Almost 200k on the clock (thankfully the past owner had recently forked out plenty of $$$ to get the DSG rebuilt) and runs like a dream for me and goes like the clappers when in sport mode ;)
I shopped an Accord Euro back in 2017. Attended the stealership in Berwick around November/December, attempted to get in the car as my main priority being 6"5' tall, realised no chance in hell I will ever own a Euro., roof line is way too low, I ended up getting a new 2017 HSV Clubby LSA. I frigging love the thing! Bogan stigma?... Care factor 0.00%! I am hoping to be buried in it. (unless I have the opportunity to purchase an Audi RS6 wagon😮 Besides the Audi, the '17 Clubby is king)
Most bogans cannot afford, so the more pricey Holdens are losing that stigma. I’m not a Holden fan but you’ve got to have some respect and nostalgia for the brand if you’re an Aussie. The HSV’s are worth treasuring.
I would add in any of the Renault Sport Clio or Megane range. The old manual cars are great. But even the newer dual clutch cars are also excellent. Amazing value for money. And easily just as reliable or better then VWs.
@@szotakandrei The newer Megane RS depreciates like a rock in water here in Australia. I have a daily Megane MK4 GT. Another great car. But also have a MK3 Clio 200 on the side. The Clio 200 has has held its value reasonably well. The Megane GT however has fallen off a cliff and is now is essentially worth nothing.
So good to see the Nismo Note E-power getting some love. I don't own one but get to drive them in my job and I have constantly fought the urge to buy one.
YES. Finally, someone who sees past the GR86 Rally concept's nostalgia baiting. Never liked the idea to be honest, and the people who say the G16E-GTS is a reliability upgrade over the FA24D are lying.
@@MrMelonMan96 Hate all SUV's. I like driving smoothly as possible. Since the explosion of them you can't see past their big fat arses to what's happening ahead. Usually the driver is rubbish and brakes suddenly and you have to do the same. You can see past a wagon.
@@jvvoid I understand the visibility issues and then everyone’s solution is get an suv themselves so they’re higher up too. But besides that, are there any other legitimate reasons?
The cheapest small to medium car is the 1.8L manual nismo Nissan Tiida, what a little weapon. I brought it as a joke and now I’m in love with it. Brought for 7k nzd!
Holy crap, imagine my surprise to hear my car mentioned! 😳😍 I really hoped the IS500 would make it to your shores, now we just need to get you guys into one. 😉 It will be 3 years of ownership in March and this car is an amazing all-around GT car. Another great video, thanks for posting! Oh…and congrats Jim on your win with the GR Yaris! 💙👍🏽
I totally understand how hard it was to judge the SUV category, but you totally missed the " bang for your buck, sleeper". V6 RAV4. Your feedback is appreciated
The LC500 is gorgeous car and I am a qualified mechanic and car enthusiast but ….. it honestly looks like they spent all the money on design and then said…. Oh no where do we put the badges and got got a three year old to get L C 3 0 0 from E bay or Autobarn and then the three year old glued them on. All in all though good review, great job guys.
03 Mazda 2/Demio, the original Gran Turismo car in orange.😂 Straight piped,lowered on good springs, 16"rims on 205 x 45s, panel filter, braided brake lines, vented fronts,working on rear discs swap from drums, bloody good fun. 😂
I think Kia Proceed GT would be a nice contender for performance wagon? Shooting star body style, pretty capable 1.6 turbocharged engine, although auto gearbox isn't the best
I know you didn’t get any (or many) in Australia, but I would put the Shelby GT350 on this list. I don’t think you can get a more visceral driving experience without buying at least a 911 GT3
My nsx is only $1000 a year under a classic cover in nz valued at 140k. Im limited to 5000km per year and needs to be stored inside but i do that anyway and dont drive it more than 5k regardless. Good video, offer is still there to drive the nsx in nz 👍
That Lexus 500 is a magic car. One of the sweeter V8's. They build cars now to the standards Merc used to have. The Alfa is a great car to drive but I would have to stand inline for ANY Lotus. I am unfortunately, stuck with an MG love. (pre China white goods) That shows that my selections may be questionable!
Have owned a Golf R wagon which I 'upgraded' to from a Octavia RS, and the Octavia is a better and more fun car 95% of the time. Completely agree with the take here. I'd own another one in a heartbeat
You are worried about steering when parking?, for me its when your actually driving and the feedback, but okay. For me though, the engine note makes it worth it.
I've got an i30N (facelifted one with the DCT gearbox). Generally a great car but a few things to consider - at least based on my experience: 1) Fuel economy isn't great at all if you are doing lots of stop/start town driving. Even if you drive it in eco mode. Respectable enough when cruising though. I don't do a lot of mileage so not really an issue for me, but something to consider if you are driving lots. 2) I've had a few build quality niggles, e.g. some bits of trim falling off and the car only has 10k kms on it and the sunroof creaks like nobodies business if the car is cold. The exhaust open/close valve also failed meaning that in quiet mode it would rattle badly on every gearchange. The entire muffler had to be replaced under warranty, which I suspect would cost a bit if you were paying yourself. Apparently there is some aftermarket part fix you can get as opposed to changing the whole muffler. 3) Rear seat legroom isn't great (even more compromised space in the Fastback which I have). E.g. if I put the kid seat in the back, then my wife has to have the passenger seat very far forward. Golf GTI would be better if you really need a one-size-fits-all car. But despite the issues above it's so much fun to drive ... puts a smile on my face every single time I get in it.
@@Zenithdraggy maybe it's just the Fastback having constrained headroom makes it feel cramped. I'm always in the front so never noticed but my wife does complain of not having great room in the front when we have the car seat behind her, as she has to put the seat very far forward.
V60 Polestar the 1st generation isn’t wagon at all. It would stick in the category before. Only the second generation of V60 could go into the wagon category. I work at Volvo and in my opinion the V60s tuned by Polestar are quite fun to drive, I had just one V60 1st generation in my hands and it was amazing, the sound of it?? Man it sounds so good
The e power notes get up to about 90 kmh quickly then they start to lose a bit more power i have owned 2 and currently own a medalist model which is a sleeper
The 3rd and 4th gen Pajero Short is 8/10's of a Pajero Evo. The only things the Evo 1 ups them on is Torsen Diffs, Wide body looks, Engine power and collectability. For 1/3rd the price you can throw on some nice shocks, upgrade the diffs to torsen and even get some cool icelandic wide body and still be cheaper than an Evo. Arguably better just less collectable.
So jealous of all these awesome little hot hatches we don’t get in the states. That said I’d rather own my ‘13 focus st - less tech by a long shot and less monitoring from insurance companies
Hi Jim ! I totally agree with you about SUVS.. Those cars should be forbidden... haha They are love killers. The IS in general and the 500 are hot cars.
Love the video fellas, and some great picks. Just going to throw out my own favourite in the small/mid sedan class (a-la Accord Euro R). Admittedly I'm biased as an owner - but if you've ever had a go in one, its very hard to go past the Alfa 156 GTA. Greatest sound imaginable and decent performance from the 3.2L Busso V6, in a practical sedan that has killer looks and brilliant handling (best handling FWD I've ever driven) especially with the usual GTA mods like adjustable coilovers, Q2 LSD, and 330mm Brembos. Yep they are relatively hard to find - only just over 100 were imported new - but prices have returned to "reasonable" (anywhere from $15k to $40k - I paid under $10k for mine in 2021). Nor are they especially fragile - mine's 22yo, clocked over 275,000km and was my daily til about 2 months ago (you just need to look after them properly and have access to a good indie Alfa workshop). I know you loved the 147 GTA, but the 156 sedan version is just a better, more "sorted" and cooler alternative to the more predictable choices in this class. Also, kudos for nominating the Echo Sportivo - I bought a near-new Yaris YRX 1.5 myself around 2007 and ran it for 4-5 years. Totally bullet proof, impervious to abuse and neglect and good fun to drive. Still see my old one tootling around the neighbourhood, with faded clear coat on the roof the only real sign of its age.
Scirocco R is not suitable for people 6 foot and above... I felt cramped and claustrophobic in there compared to the Golf R, and it's just so impractical... It's pretty quick, but I would take a Golf R or even GTI over a Scirocco every single time.
In the Japanese cars “don’t buy” vid you guys said avoid the 86 family due to the RTV issue - then in this video you tell people to buy them and track them 😅 Oil starvation in right hand corners on track is what kills these cars :/
@ The Gen 2 ZD8/ZN8 cars are the ones suffering from the excessive RTV and oil starvation on the track - your Japanese avoid vid used b-roll pics of the first gen. Former owner of Gen 1 86 and current gen BRZ here. To summarise - the 2 litre cars are not known for excessive RTV and have proven to be reliable on track. The 2.4 litre cars have excessive RTV, tho this hasn’t been proven to cause engine failure due pickup changes. The 2.4 cars do however have a documented oil starvation issue when pushed hard on the track - regardless of RTV.
From what I have heard pulling the pan on a GT86 to check, clean and reseal the RTV isn't that difficult. If that's the only issue with the car. Id say its a good car.
I’m from Germany 🇩🇪 and live in Australia 🇦🇺 Driving a Ute now! Having a fast car here in Australia is no fun. So I dropped it. Top Speed 130 in some parts of NT but roads are terrible! We better stick to 4WDriving But still enjoyed your video
Jim’s comments during the 4WD segment (I hate the phrase SUV, they’re not sporty, and they’re not utes!) made me laugh so much 😂😂😂. And yes I know not all of them are 4WDs but they’re just the pretenders…
Agreed - and the reason the industry pushed the term "SUV" about 30 years ago was so that they had a name for non-4WD 4WD-looking vehicles that didn't draw attention to the fact they weren't 4WDs...
Great list, fellas! 100% agree with the LC500 on the list. Such an amazing machine. Was kind of hoping the RCF would get a shout-out too, as it's also a fantastic GT car.
Have you driven a fastback N & a hatch? As you're unsure of any difference in mass, hard to say if one has better performance/driving enjoyment characteristics. Also worth noting..you don't really see many fastbacks..this could indicate most don't agree
I have, both on road and track, hardly any difference in feel. The track/road and tyre condition at the time will have a larger bearing on how they feel. I just prefer the uniqueness of the fastback. - AK
Definitely a good video and had quite a few surprises in there as nominees and winners. A couple of the surprise picks were amoung other the Autozam AZ-1, Toyota Echo Sportivo. A few notable omissions from the list are; Toyota Crown & Century, Pulsar SSS, Ford XR5/6/8, WRX STI 22B, Genesis GV70 Great to see Hullsy's sarcasm and both of you joking around while doing this video. Brilliant video guys and as always keep up the good work and look forward to next week's videos as per usual 👍.
Guys whats the reason for suggesting only post 2020 Abarth. Its mechanically unchanged from 2011 with exhaust, front/ rear bumpers and a digital display being the only changes throughout its production run?
Great video - I really think Toyota should treat the G16-GTS like they did with the 4AGE - put it across the range in FWD and RWD form - bring on an MR2 with it!
On the warm wagons front, the Levorg is a better value prop over the Octavia RS. Sharper driver, lower cost overheads, cheaper to purchase and arguably more reliable. Yes, the CVT is shit in stock form but thats mostly down to the throttle map. Whack on a throttle controller and it's a massive improvement over the batshit insane Subaru factory throttle map.
11:26 Where’s the Corolla Sportivo 2zz? Best value for money hot hatch out there. I’ve driven and owned Type R’s civics, VW Gti’s and R32’s, S3, Clio RS etc. Nothing compares to the value proposition of the 2zz corolla. Reliability, practicality, cost of parts, ease to work on, power to weight, genuine valve lift/vtec, n/a power/sound/fuel economy.
No need to watch the full video, just grab the first car mentioned. Except can blame the Nugget Nationals series in Victoria for the rise in prices on these as Sportivos take up half the field. Luckily found mine (albeit suffering the worst of the Toyota paint quailty) for $1400 at the start of the year!
I spent 47 minutes of my life watching it, so you don’t have to.
Here is the full list of cars they recommend buying it, divided according to their segment:
1. Toyota Yaris GR
2. Hyundai i30N, Audi RS3, BMW M 140i (a lot of divergences between them here)
3. Lexus IS 500, Lexus GSF
4. Skoda Octavia RS, Mitsubishi Evo 9 Wagon
5. Porsche Macan GTS
6. Mazda MX5
7. Subaru BRZ
8. Nissan R35 GTR
9. Porsche 911 (any of them from 997 onwards)
10. Lexus LC 500.
Shush! We want to!
And no 2, I'd add the golf R just cause it's such a great daily and has AWD. The RS3 is great but it's twice the part
The macan GTS is the only SUV I'd consider, next to a stelvio quadrifoglio.
Legend
you are a scholar and a gentleman
Title should be used performance cars that no one buys.
Jim won a tournament and has tracked the GR Yaris past 3 weeks? Big respect!
Greetings from Dundee in Scotland, Found your channel at the beginning of the year and have been hooked ever since. I find it hard to believe you do not have seven figured subs but it will come when people realise what good content you have. Keep up the great work!
With the shutdown of local manufacturing, I believe driving a Commodore/Falcon is now a cool alternative choice. Dickheads and normies have mostly moved on to lifted 4x4 utes and SUVs. It takes a bit more thought and passion to choose to get into Australian cars now.
The mighty Ford AU Falcon
@@DrCoomer_1 SOHC > Barra all day
They’re rubbish to drive though. Terrible and far from “ performance”. Only nostalgic rose tinted glasses would put these in a garage.
@@gdubyadubya8961 they're superb to drive. The VE/VF Commodore benchmarked the e39 530i. They had 50/50 weight distribution, independent suspension all around, available with a manual transmission and a range of good V8 engines. The Ford Falcon was available with the Barra Turbo, enough said.
Driving an Australian car never has and never will be cool. Yes the normies and fuckwits have mostly gone to 4x4s. But only the ultra fuckwits and meth heads have stuck with the Australian cars. Least cool cars ever made
I just sold my AZ1.. loved the car. Literally go cart for the road that puts a smile on your dial every time. Only sold it because it was hardly ever used 2 seater and I have 3 kids. I know I will regret it later down the track.
Yep I’d regret having kids
How tall are you? I'd love to have one but I'm 6'4" and the doors eat into whatever little headroom there is (I fit into a Cappuccino 25kg ago though lol).
Honestly you guys run such an amazing channel!! Please keep it up and don’t stop with those amazing videos and reviews.
I do think there’s a little bit of a Lexus bias haha but I can’t see why not considering how good their cars are. Would love for you guys to talk more about your love for cars growing up and what you learnt from each car you owned and drove:)
Had an Abarth for 5 years. Nothing but driving joy was had from that ownership experience. Took it to the track, got some power, braking and tire mods and it was more than enough to beat cars twice the price in a tight circuit ❤
Honda should bring back the S2000.
And definitely not with a electric motor
I love these types of videos man. Genuine, educated opinions on the real gems available in the Aussie market
Did you guys forget the Kia Stinger? I'd have thought it would at least get a nomination on the large performance sedan
Stinger GT is great. If I had to pick a sedan, it would be between that one and a Giulia Veloce
Genesis g70 can't really get in Europe, but that would be #1 if I could
as a driving experience the Kia Stinger GT kicked the same price range XR-6 Turbo. most highway patrol cops in NSW who drove them both agreed.
Definitely!! Can't understand why the Stinger GT didn't get a mention. Not really an ideal track car, but a brilliant performance road car - fast, nimble, feels like a smaller car behind the wheel, comfortable - so a great long distance cruiser, roomy, good looking, relatively affordable for the performance, and they hold their value. 7 year warranty, reliable, trouble free ownership. I love mine and will be keeping it for a long time I think.
Agree. An awesome car and unbelievable bang for your buck.
I have a manual pre-lci M2, I can't imagine ever needing more car. It's been reliable too!
Reckon you guys need to do one for ‘older’ cars. It’s a bit hard to compare to stuff mentioned in this and the others in this series vids. Also given the nature of older kind of ‘collectable’ type cars, doing it on price rather than car shape / size categories. Just a thought anyway.
Agree with 90% of your list. A Cayman 718 GTS in manual form is about perfection for engagement and reliability, looks etc.... God speed.
I have a 2013 swift sport and a 1960 Austin Healey Sprite. Both very fun and capable cars, both track proven with the Sprite still a popular track car 64 near 65 years later. Though they’re not “powerful”, the Sprite especially putting out 43hp from its 948cc A series, they’re both incredibly fun at normal speeds and I attribute this to weight or lack there of. The Swift coming in under 1000kg (I’ve done some weight reduction) and the Sprite at 630kg. It’s amazing what no power, lightweight can do.
LC500...YES!!! GT car on a budget...V8 S5. Everyone seems to have forgotten about them.
And the ISF
Great video guys!. Surprised not to see the DC2 Type R though!.
Love the channel, your discourse about Commodores being like Cold Chisel because of association is just one reason to love the channel. Great social insights and great car reviews as a bonus.
Thanks so much mate!
Well done, another great episode. I note Porsche Boxster didn't get a mention in the convertible category and thought there must be Porsche related issues holding it back but in other categories you suggest any generation of Cayman and 911 as good things. I own an ND MX5 (GR86 too) but am curious why Boxster wouldn't receive an honourable mention in it's category?
I rekn the xr6 falcon turbo or NA should have made the list . The Barra engine is great
SOHC > Barra
Interesting, all these cars are great, but you guys haven’t found a spot for a manual Mustang GT? 😮
I agree. Above 4000rpm with the right exhaust it is the sound of angels singing and an absolute last to drive with awesome brakes as standard!!!
reliability and build quality concerns but its the cheapest entry point to V8 ownership. But honestly id rather get an older RC F for the same price if i didnt need a manual. But manual wise theres no other affordable alternative than the stang
@@eugenewang4650 reliability concerns? I think you are missing the point if you are suggesting an auto RC F
Great video as always guys, just awesome. Just realised I watched a full 50mins of a couple guys talking about cars in a workshop… does that make me an official bogan? 😂 +1 for the Skoda wagon! 🏁
This was well worth watching.
I purchased the cheapest 987.2 Porsche Cayman in Australia at the time during the first lockdown (video coming one day).
I drove it home the long way from Coffs Harbour and it was a brilliant (long day) introduction to my first Porsche, especially with Bose and 14 way seats...
I own a Skoda Octavia RS 125 diesel wagon. Have owned a decent selection of cars over the years, this is the most reliable car I’ve ever owned. I’d put in Peugeot 404/504 stratosphere for reliability, and just a great car to drive. The 245 I have not driven but the reviews appear to be universally great. Big fan. And the Škoda is a total sleeper.
Great video. 981 GT4 is the best sub 200k drivers car. Fight me if you want, you're wrong. Also any boxster or cayman with a manual gearbox and a flat six in it, well looked after, is untouchable for the money as a drivers car. GR86 also great car but I believe there are some class action noises being made around the engine. FL5. You need to drive one asap. Thanks again for the great content. I really enjoyed this video and it would be a good one to watch with a bunch of mates and pause and discuss/debate. Could fill a whole evening doing that!
Plus 1 for manual Boxster S or GTS 981 preferably with the x73 suspension.
Owned a 2015 V60 Polestar for 6 years and 165,000km, hands down a wonderful car.
Get one for a review. Better than my rs4 or hsv wagon by distance.
As a Skoda octavia Vrs owner, I never imagined that my car would be on a 'performance' list. That being said, the thing is a keg of fun and I would be very reluctant to ever sell it.
Nissan Silvia/200SX from the 90's to early 2000's were cool coupes that can be rear wheel drive track day fun. I always wanted one in my younger years, but unfortunately by the time I could insure one in the UK most had rotted away, or were terribly modified/ruined or wrapped around a tree. I also think they look great in stock form even today.
I actually think you slating that gr Toyota86 is so good man it deserves the livery and looks such a great homage!
Yep, 37:00 was waiting for it. Bang for buck the current model BRZ /86 is heaps of fun.
I've got a 2012 Skoda Octavia RS Wagon and love it ... and only paid $10k for it over a year ago (sydney). Almost 200k on the clock (thankfully the past owner had recently forked out plenty of $$$ to get the DSG rebuilt) and runs like a dream for me and goes like the clappers when in sport mode ;)
I shopped an Accord Euro back in 2017. Attended the stealership in Berwick around November/December, attempted to get in the car as my main priority being 6"5' tall, realised no chance in hell I will ever own a Euro., roof line is way too low, I ended up getting a new 2017 HSV Clubby LSA.
I frigging love the thing! Bogan stigma?... Care factor 0.00%!
I am hoping to be buried in it.
(unless I have the opportunity to purchase an Audi RS6 wagon😮 Besides the Audi, the '17 Clubby is king)
never get rid of it
I bought my VF GTS in Berwick. Thinking of selling as it's just not being driven 😮
Most bogans cannot afford, so the more pricey Holdens are losing that stigma.
I’m not a Holden fan but you’ve got to have some respect and nostalgia for the brand if you’re an Aussie. The HSV’s are worth treasuring.
I would add in any of the Renault Sport Clio or Megane range. The old manual cars are great. But even the newer dual clutch cars are also excellent. Amazing value for money. And easily just as reliable or better then VWs.
Have a Mégane RS trophy saved. 2019, 30k euros, orange color. Such a looker. But I think I'd pick a golf R for the AWD I'd need during the winter
@@szotakandrei The newer Megane RS depreciates like a rock in water here in Australia. I have a daily Megane MK4 GT. Another great car. But also have a MK3 Clio 200 on the side. The Clio 200 has has held its value reasonably well. The Megane GT however has fallen off a cliff and is now is essentially worth nothing.
@@ForgetfulFoot idk, in Europe (or Romania where I am) they are still pretty expensive. In line with an equivalent golf R pretty much
I should hope they're better than VWs! After all, they are the bottom of the pile in terms of reliability.
Used to have a 2015 trophy R, epic car on track
21 seconds in, already amazing
Heavy duty mechanic here and I love my TTrs especially in the winter, which is 6 months long
WHAT A FANTASTIC EPISODE GUYS!!!!! Love you to bits. Please make more. Thank you. DrMike
So good to see the Nismo Note E-power getting some love. I don't own one but get to drive them in my job and I have constantly fought the urge to buy one.
I am surprised you did not mention the Holden Barina SRi. 1.8 litre engine in a 1,000kg car. Had one for 160,000km. It was a brilliant go kart.
sober up mate.
My ex owned a TK Barina; my diesel Fiesta is faster and that only has 66HP.
Maybe it would be a good idea to list them by price range instead of size in next videos. Thanks for the content!
Great video, guys.
Is there any content of Jim on the race track? I'd love to see him tearing around a track.
YES. Finally, someone who sees past the GR86 Rally concept's nostalgia baiting. Never liked the idea to be honest, and the people who say the G16E-GTS is a reliability upgrade over the FA24D are lying.
I'm with you, Jim. Performance SUV (any frigging SUV). Never.
Why the hate on performance SUVs but love for performance wagons?
They only built them as Porsche was going broke and were desperate to fund their sports cars.
@@markpudney6533 They might be better than the rest, but yeah, it was just a cynical exercise by Porsche to stay liquid.
@@MrMelonMan96 Hate all SUV's. I like driving smoothly as possible. Since the explosion of them you can't see past their big fat arses to what's happening ahead. Usually the driver is rubbish and brakes suddenly and you have to do the same. You can see past a wagon.
@@jvvoid I understand the visibility issues and then everyone’s solution is get an suv themselves so they’re higher up too. But besides that, are there any other legitimate reasons?
Love this channel.
Top Gear Australia should learn a thing or two from these guys.
That was Excellent viewing nice one guys 😎✌️
I reckon the Kia stinger GT is up there for practically, performance, fun etc
Convertible - Yep can't argue with the MX5 they are a great car but I'll stick with my Mustang V8 Convertible so much fun
The cheapest small to medium car is the 1.8L manual nismo Nissan Tiida, what a little weapon. I brought it as a joke and now I’m in love with it. Brought for 7k nzd!
Holy crap, imagine my surprise to hear my car mentioned! 😳😍 I really hoped the IS500 would make it to your shores, now we just need to get you guys into one. 😉 It will be 3 years of ownership in March and this car is an amazing all-around GT car. Another great video, thanks for posting! Oh…and congrats Jim on your win with the GR Yaris! 💙👍🏽
I totally understand how hard it was to judge the SUV category, but you totally missed the " bang for your buck, sleeper". V6 RAV4. Your feedback is appreciated
The LC500 is gorgeous car and I am a qualified mechanic and car enthusiast but ….. it honestly looks like they spent all the money on design and then said…. Oh no where do we put the badges and got got a three year old to get L C 3 0 0 from E bay or Autobarn and then the three year old glued them on.
All in all though good review, great job guys.
03 Mazda 2/Demio, the original Gran Turismo car in orange.😂 Straight piped,lowered on good springs, 16"rims on 205 x 45s, panel filter, braided brake lines, vented fronts,working on rear discs swap from drums, bloody good fun. 😂
I looked around for a Polestar V60, but couldnt find one anywhere. Went for the Alpina estate and its just awesome. And yes, cooler than an M3
The m2 and 240i are the right choice, perfect size awd option on the 240, and highly tunable, too
Macan Turbo performance package - understated performance and a daily driver. Baby buggy - Sublime
I think Kia Proceed GT would be a nice contender for performance wagon? Shooting star body style, pretty capable 1.6 turbocharged engine, although auto gearbox isn't the best
I have a Suzuki Cappuccino. I prefer it to the Az1 as it is more practical and it is a convertible.
I know you didn’t get any (or many) in Australia, but I would put the Shelby GT350 on this list. I don’t think you can get a more visceral driving experience without buying at least a 911 GT3
My nsx is only $1000 a year under a classic cover in nz valued at 140k. Im limited to 5000km per year and needs to be stored inside but i do that anyway and dont drive it more than 5k regardless. Good video, offer is still there to drive the nsx in nz 👍
I’ve hit the like button straight away. Greetings from the UK!
That Lexus 500 is a magic car. One of the sweeter V8's. They build cars now to the standards Merc used to have. The Alfa is a great car to drive but I would have to stand inline for ANY Lotus. I am unfortunately, stuck with an MG love. (pre China white goods) That shows that my selections may be questionable!
Thankyou! Commodores rock! Now imma go rip some donuts... 😂
LC500 So special to be in!
Have owned a Golf R wagon which I 'upgraded' to from a Octavia RS, and the Octavia is a better and more fun car 95% of the time. Completely agree with the take here. I'd own another one in a heartbeat
You are worried about steering when parking?, for me its when your actually driving and the feedback, but okay. For me though, the engine note makes it worth it.
Adam, after our chat, the bank has been emailed about an R35 🤣🤣 Thanks again!! Daimo
You legend! - AK
I have an 89 MX5...such a great fun car, and once up at speed, the thrill around corners and the twisties is an amazing experience.
Now my favourite car channel love from the UK guys
My two favs was the i20n and the gen2 twins
Ended up with the BRZ...
Couldn't resist the coupe shape
Yiss, you added a GT category ❤️ 100% agree with its winner too. And yes, I would love to hear more about the Japan import 550
Kennen from Cars and Bids would have to agree with you on that E39 M5.
Great vid guys. I’d say you missed one of the greatest convertibles of all time - the Honda S2000
RS3 is probably the best bang for your buck with a reliable gear box and the daza engine
I've got an i30N (facelifted one with the DCT gearbox). Generally a great car but a few things to consider - at least based on my experience:
1) Fuel economy isn't great at all if you are doing lots of stop/start town driving. Even if you drive it in eco mode. Respectable enough when cruising though. I don't do a lot of mileage so not really an issue for me, but something to consider if you are driving lots.
2) I've had a few build quality niggles, e.g. some bits of trim falling off and the car only has 10k kms on it and the sunroof creaks like nobodies business if the car is cold. The exhaust open/close valve also failed meaning that in quiet mode it would rattle badly on every gearchange. The entire muffler had to be replaced under warranty, which I suspect would cost a bit if you were paying yourself. Apparently there is some aftermarket part fix you can get as opposed to changing the whole muffler.
3) Rear seat legroom isn't great (even more compromised space in the Fastback which I have). E.g. if I put the kid seat in the back, then my wife has to have the passenger seat very far forward. Golf GTI would be better if you really need a one-size-fits-all car.
But despite the issues above it's so much fun to drive ... puts a smile on my face every single time I get in it.
the leg room is an odd bit, i felt comfortable sitting behind a driver who is like 1.85ish meters maybe a little more and im just average height
@@Zenithdraggy maybe it's just the Fastback having constrained headroom makes it feel cramped. I'm always in the front so never noticed but my wife does complain of not having great room in the front when we have the car seat behind her, as she has to put the seat very far forward.
Mentioned the Focus ST but not the RS. Missed a trick there...
V60 Polestar the 1st generation isn’t wagon at all. It would stick in the category before. Only the second generation of V60 could go into the wagon category. I work at Volvo and in my opinion the V60s tuned by Polestar are quite fun to drive, I had just one V60 1st generation in my hands and it was amazing, the sound of it?? Man it sounds so good
The e power notes get up to about 90 kmh quickly then they start to lose a bit more power i have owned 2 and currently own a medalist model which is a sleeper
The 3rd and 4th gen Pajero Short is 8/10's of a Pajero Evo. The only things the Evo 1 ups them on is Torsen Diffs, Wide body looks, Engine power and collectability. For 1/3rd the price you can throw on some nice shocks, upgrade the diffs to torsen and even get some cool icelandic wide body and still be cheaper than an Evo. Arguably better just less collectable.
So jealous of all these awesome little hot hatches we don’t get in the states. That said I’d rather own my ‘13 focus st - less tech by a long shot and less monitoring from insurance companies
Hi Jim !
I totally agree with you about SUVS.. Those cars should be forbidden... haha They are love killers.
The IS in general and the 500 are hot cars.
Love the video fellas, and some great picks. Just going to throw out my own favourite in the small/mid sedan class (a-la Accord Euro R). Admittedly I'm biased as an owner - but if you've ever had a go in one, its very hard to go past the Alfa 156 GTA. Greatest sound imaginable and decent performance from the 3.2L Busso V6, in a practical sedan that has killer looks and brilliant handling (best handling FWD I've ever driven) especially with the usual GTA mods like adjustable coilovers, Q2 LSD, and 330mm Brembos. Yep they are relatively hard to find - only just over 100 were imported new - but prices have returned to "reasonable" (anywhere from $15k to $40k - I paid under $10k for mine in 2021). Nor are they especially fragile - mine's 22yo, clocked over 275,000km and was my daily til about 2 months ago (you just need to look after them properly and have access to a good indie Alfa workshop). I know you loved the 147 GTA, but the 156 sedan version is just a better, more "sorted" and cooler alternative to the more predictable choices in this class.
Also, kudos for nominating the Echo Sportivo - I bought a near-new Yaris YRX 1.5 myself around 2007 and ran it for 4-5 years. Totally bullet proof, impervious to abuse and neglect and good fun to drive. Still see my old one tootling around the neighbourhood, with faded clear coat on the roof the only real sign of its age.
Scirocco R is not suitable for people 6 foot and above... I felt cramped and claustrophobic in there compared to the Golf R, and it's just so impractical... It's pretty quick, but I would take a Golf R or even GTI over a Scirocco every single time.
In the Japanese cars “don’t buy” vid you guys said avoid the 86 family due to the RTV issue - then in this video you tell people to buy them and track them 😅 Oil starvation in right hand corners on track is what kills these cars :/
Different generations mate. - AK
@ The Gen 2 ZD8/ZN8 cars are the ones suffering from the excessive RTV and oil starvation on the track - your Japanese avoid vid used b-roll pics of the first gen. Former owner of Gen 1 86 and current gen BRZ here. To summarise - the 2 litre cars are not known for excessive RTV and have proven to be reliable on track. The 2.4 litre cars have excessive RTV, tho this hasn’t been proven to cause engine failure due pickup changes. The 2.4 cars do however have a documented oil starvation issue when pushed hard on the track - regardless of RTV.
From what I have heard pulling the pan on a GT86 to check, clean and reseal the RTV isn't that difficult. If that's the only issue with the car. Id say its a good car.
A Honda Jazz doesn't suffer oil starvation on the track, just saying.
these guys dont have a great reputation with consistency lets just say that🤣 refer to my comment on their cerato gt vid and proceed gt vid.
Performance wagon Merc E53!
Have one and its a pleasure to drive on sydneys roads
I’m from Germany 🇩🇪 and live in Australia 🇦🇺 Driving a Ute now!
Having a fast car here in Australia
is no fun. So I dropped it.
Top Speed 130 in some parts
of NT but roads are terrible!
We better stick to 4WDriving
But still enjoyed your video
Jim’s comments during the 4WD segment (I hate the phrase SUV, they’re not sporty, and they’re not utes!) made me laugh so much 😂😂😂. And yes I know not all of them are 4WDs but they’re just the pretenders…
Agreed - and the reason the industry pushed the term "SUV" about 30 years ago was so that they had a name for non-4WD 4WD-looking vehicles that didn't draw attention to the fact they weren't 4WDs...
Great list, fellas! 100% agree with the LC500 on the list. Such an amazing machine. Was kind of hoping the RCF would get a shout-out too, as it's also a fantastic GT car.
Great Choices. Toyota GR 86, Lexus LC500 v8 and Lotus Emira, as affordability allows! 😁
Have you driven a fastback N & a hatch? As you're unsure of any difference in mass, hard to say if one has better performance/driving enjoyment characteristics. Also worth noting..you don't really see many fastbacks..this could indicate most don't agree
I have, both on road and track, hardly any difference in feel. The track/road and tyre condition at the time will have a larger bearing on how they feel.
I just prefer the uniqueness of the fastback. - AK
Definitely a good video and had quite a few surprises in there as nominees and winners.
A couple of the surprise picks were amoung other the Autozam AZ-1, Toyota Echo Sportivo.
A few notable omissions from the list are; Toyota Crown & Century, Pulsar SSS, Ford XR5/6/8, WRX STI 22B, Genesis GV70
Great to see Hullsy's sarcasm and both of you joking around while doing this video.
Brilliant video guys and as always keep up the good work and look forward to next week's videos as per usual 👍.
Yeah, 2 Kia's didn't make the cut this year.
Pro Ceed GT
Stinger GT
Great episode guys......but I fast-forward through the wagon section 😉
How dare you…
Epic content, real world valuable advice.
I think I know the Porsche owner you're talking about. I also have an Echo Sportivo that we race at a bi annual charity race that he holds.
Great list thanks, but you missed LFA??
Thanks for the content: Ps: I'm just confused by the recommendation for the 911 when it was said that the Cayman is a better proposition
Guys whats the reason for suggesting only post 2020 Abarth. Its mechanically unchanged from 2011 with exhaust, front/ rear bumpers and a digital display being the only changes throughout its production run?
Great video - I really think Toyota should treat the G16-GTS like they did with the 4AGE - put it across the range in FWD and RWD form - bring on an MR2 with it!
alfa romeos having bad reliability labels is honestly good for us used car buyers, let them be wrong. 😃
On the warm wagons front, the Levorg is a better value prop over the Octavia RS. Sharper driver, lower cost overheads, cheaper to purchase and arguably more reliable. Yes, the CVT is shit in stock form but thats mostly down to the throttle map. Whack on a throttle controller and it's a massive improvement over the batshit insane Subaru factory throttle map.
11:26 Where’s the Corolla Sportivo 2zz? Best value for money hot hatch out there.
I’ve driven and owned Type R’s civics, VW Gti’s and R32’s, S3, Clio RS etc.
Nothing compares to the value proposition of the 2zz corolla. Reliability, practicality, cost of parts, ease to work on, power to weight, genuine valve lift/vtec, n/a power/sound/fuel economy.
No need to watch the full video, just grab the first car mentioned. Except can blame the Nugget Nationals series in Victoria for the rise in prices on these as Sportivos take up half the field. Luckily found mine (albeit suffering the worst of the Toyota paint quailty) for $1400 at the start of the year!