rear-drive Coupe/Hatchback

The Bottom Line: Although we have some minor criticisms, the 2008 BMW 135i is, overall, an excellent car to drive every day or take out on the track. It scores big in performance and cabin tech.

Specs: Coupe, 135i, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2008 BMW M3 is a tame lion. It's easy to handle among traffic and urban driving, while ferocious on the track or out in the hills. Its cabin electronics are among the best available.

Specs: Coupe, M3, Gas

The Bottom Line: With performance similar to an Ferrari F430 but less cabin luxury, the 2007 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 could be termed a poor man's Ferrari--if a poor man had $77,230 to spend.

Specs: coupe, Z06, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2007 Ford Shelby GT is a retro-styled rocket ship that will appeal to driving purists. If cabin comfort is more important than 500 horsepower, look elsewhere. If not, join the back of the wait list.

Specs: coupe, Shelby GT500, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2007 BMW 335i combines grace and guts to deliver a whirlwind driving experience. Aside from a flexible standard stereo, cabin tech is mostly a case of pay-to-play.

Specs: coupe, 335i, Gas

The Bottom Line: As an executive sports touring car, the 2006 BMW M6 excels in every category, except perhaps styling. The transmission and chassis settings have learning curves, but the reward is effortless speed and control.

Specs: coupe, Base, Gas

The Bottom Line: The 2006 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 delivers remarkable performance while still offering useful cabin technology. It's a car that can be easily driven around the city and opened up for a thrilling ride on highways.

Specs: coupe, Z06, Gas

The Bottom Line: Although it takes a hit for an outdated audio system, the 2006 Jaguar XKR's timeless looks, serious power, and integrated electronic road-holding technology make up for quite a lot.

Specs: coupe, Base, Gas

The Bottom Line: The RX-8's video game looks and rotary engine give it a technology edge, but its lack of cabin gadgets keeps the focus on driving.

Specs: coupe, Automatic, Gas

Specs: hatchback, C230 Kompressor, Gas