Toyota MR2



Back in 1985, the then-new MR2 showed just what Toyota was capable of. This pocket-size mid-engine road burner offered a 112-hp DOHC engine, five-speed manual gearbox and near-perfect ergonomics for the then-reasonable sum of about $11,000. Plus, it was every bit as thrilling as the specs suggested. The engine revved to an unheard of 7500 rpm, turning every grocery run into the Grand Prix of Monaco. In 1988, Toyota slapped on a supercharger and netted 145 horsepower, a combination that shamed many higher-priced sports cars. For 1990, Toyota's pocket rocket morphed from an angular Asian to a svelte 5/8-scale Ferrari. But we prefer the character—and price—of the original.

Volkswagen Rabbit GTI



The 1983 Volkswagen GTI, sold as the Rabbit GTI until 1985, was a light and lithe two-door hatchback. With its 1.8-liter, inline four-cylinder fuel-injected engine, the GTI directed 90 horsepower to its front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. A 16-valve version was optional, transforming the GTI into quite the performer, despite its basic styling. On the outside, GTIs were easily distinguishable from normal Rabbits, with their boxier front ends and snowflake-style alloy wheels, while the interiors offered sport seats covered with striped fabric. While economical, this hatchback was also practical for drivers who wanted a bit of zip and zest when they hit the gas. The GTI's preternatural handling and maneuverability made it one of the most fun to drive cars available at any price. 

Jeep Wrangler



Jeep's Wrangler is basically the same as it ever was. Like the CJ that preceded it, the Wrangler is a go-anywhere, do-anything 4WD vehicle that's as comfortable crawling over rocks on the Rubicon Trail as it is chauffeuring the dogs back and forth to the beach. From 1987 to 1995, YJ became the Wrangler's official model designation. The YJ featured front and rear live axles and a larger windshield, and rectangular headlights replaced the classic round headlights. The YJ was initially available with either a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder or 4.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine (a 4.0-liter came later). Prospective buyers should look closely for rust, as Wranglers—like many capable four-wheelers—are often ridden hard and put away wet. The tires and undercarriage also tend to suffer abuse off-road, so check low for signs of abuse.

Pontiac Fiero



The Pontiac Fiero was a two-passenger, rear-wheel-drive, mid-engine coupe GM built from 1984 to 1988—and the first mid-engine car produced by an American car manufacturer. Initially, the Fiero was powered by a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that achieved up to 40 mpg, which is comparable to some of the best modern drivetrains. In 1985, an optional 2.8-liter V6 debuted, and in 1986, that engine was paired to a five-speed Muncie Getrag transmission. But it wasn't until 1988 that the Fiero finally received a proper sports-car suspension and four-wheel vented disc brakes. Unfortunately, 1988 was also the last year GM built the little sports car, just as it perfected the recipe. On the bright side, frames of earlier model-year Fieros will accept the improved 1988 suspension, which is good news for driving enthusiasts on a budget.

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