The 1 series is the driver's Golf that everyone's been waiting for: whilst it may not quite match the VW/Audi stable's impenetrable build quality, the BMW has rear-wheel drive up its sleeve. The result is a genuine driver's car that delivers really satisfying handling and makes a Golf or Astra feel stodgy in comparison. The fabulous 118 and 120 diesels provide effortless performance and incredible fuel efficiency, whilst injecting a level of sophistication that one usually expects only to find further up the BMW range. Prices are quite high, but put it to auction and you can be sure of some massive discounts from BMW main dealers directly.