Mitsubishi Evo IX vs Audi S3

Looks are deceiving; these two practical performance cars have much in common. Both are four-wheel drive, both are powered by highly tuned 2.0-litre turbos and both are stunningly quick. But instead of the Mitsubishi’s 20.5mpg, the S3 returns 31mpg. And because its CO2 figure doesn’t bust the 225g/km barrier, the Audi costs £210 to tax against £400 for Evos sold after March 2006.

Meanwhile, the latter needs servicing every 4,500 miles, as opposed to a maximum of 19,000 for the S3. Of course, the Evo fights back with greater punch when accelerating, and its more sophisticated 4WD achieves unbelievable roadholding, but the S3 has by far the classier cabin and better residuals. In isolation, the Audi isn’t cheap. Next to the Evo it’s the chip shop vs Claridges.