SPORTS SEDANS: Under $100,000

1ST - Holden Commodore SS V manual
A roomy, reasonably refined performance car you can drive interstate and not emerge knackered or crippled from, the SS V boasts massive 6.0-litre V8 outputs that deliver effortless overtaking and cruising performance at a price many can afford. Resale values will hurt, but you get 95 percent of the car HSV Clubsport owners buy, at 80 percent of the price. The full set of safety kit is a massive plus, with ESP standard across the VE range a real credit to Holden; insurance cost not as appalling as you might think, either. Better drive experiences abound in this category (the GTS and STi finalists, not placed), but the SS V is rightfully the victor thanks to strongest practical fundamentals.

2ND - Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX
Supercar performance for $56K. Thrilling, brutal, and best pure-drive experience in this category. Strong retained value potential. Best warranty and fuel cost, but ‘blink and you’ll miss it’ service interval and notable omissions from safety spec consign the Evo to second place.


3RD - HSV Club Sport R8 (auto)
Holden’s answer to AMG (at a quarter of the price) delivers integrated yet in-yer-face styling, and ups the ante on the 6.0-litre V8 to match – with slick-shifting six-speed auto the pick. Full safety spec and a great drive, but very thirsty and punishing insurance costs.