Alfa Romeo Giulietta: 1977-1984

Alfa Romeo's mid-sized saloon was a typical sporting offering. All engine options were classic twin-cams, and punched well above their weight in terms of power. The Giulietta was a neat wedge shaped design which resulted in a roomy cabin and huge boot. Gearchange was variable from car to car thanks to unconventional transaxle arrangement and variable build quality. A good one was a fantastic driver's car, though.

Audi 100: 1977-1982

When launched, the Audi 100 was a neat, and typically Germanic large saloon. Airy cabin, nice ergonomics and neat road manners marked it out as a very competent steer. However, the arrival of its inline five-cylinder engine in 1978 added some much needed charisma, and a fine soundtrack. Audi claimed it was 'as economical as a four, as smooth as a six'. Perhaps it was, but BMW and Mercedes buyers were unconvinced.

Chrysler 180/2-Litre: 1970-1980

A new big Simca for the French and a modern Humber for the British, the neat and tidy 'American in Paris', actually ended up pleasing neither French or Englishmen. Chassis dynamics were capable and very French in their set-up, but the Simca engines produced mediocre performance. Although it looked very similar to the Hillman/Sunbeam/Chrysler Avenger, it shared little of that car's sales success.

Citroen CX 2000: 1974-1991

Light years ahead of its time in many ways, the Citroen CX was easily the most comfortable car in its class. The 2-litre versions received a boost in 1979 when new 'Douvrin' engines were installed to replace the ancient DS-based originals. Idiosyncratic dashboard, swoopy styling and blink-and-you'll-miss-it steering meant you needed time to get used to the CX. Many buyers didn't think it worth the effort.

Ford Granada Mk 2: 1977-1985

The more basic Granadas seemed to live in the shadow of the glamorous V6 Ghia models, but despite this, they were worthy and very capable cars. Massive sales success in the UK meant the Granada was the darling of the executive set, even though there were many alternatives to be had. Ford's advantage was a wide dealer network and excellent relationships with fleet managers all across the UK.

Lancia Beta: 1976-1983

It's difficult to talk about the Beta without mentioning 'rust', so we thought we'd get it out of the way first. Forgetting that, the Beta was actually a very fine car indeed - and although many Lancisti consider it not the real thing thanks to its Fiat engines, it still had that sparkle that marked it out as a cut above the rest. Twin cam engines and excellent handling marked it out as the driver's car of the class.

Renault 20TS: 1975-1984

Although the Renault 20 was one of the most sober-suited offerings in the class, it was also one of the most capable in two-litre form. The 'Douvrin' engine offered fine performance and economy. Soft ride and tidy handling meant it was near the top of the class for comfort. Baffling rear seat folding arrangement almost negated the advantage of its hatchback. Voted Car of the Year by What Car? magazine in 1979!

Saab 99: 1969-1984

In typically Swedish fashion, the Saab 99 managed to be both rational and interesting at the same time. For a car of its vintage it was technically very advanced, but also a great car to drive. Cabin was a bit on the narrow side for maximum comfort, but that was negated by the commanding view forward and excellent seating. Strong performance and brakes were a 99 strong point - hatchback version offered later.

Vauxhall Viceroy/Opel Commodore: 1978-1983

Most of us wouldn't have thought there was a gap in the GM range between the Carlton/Rekord and Royale/Senator, but its makers did - and produced a six-cylinder version of the smaller car for those who couldn't quite run to the real thing. Smooth and effortless performance, and superior seating marked out this car, but very little else did in a class littered with talent. Heavy fuel consumption a major down side.

Volvo 244: 1974-1993

Both the Swedes in this selection went on to live exceptionally long lives. In the Volvo's case, strong sales were the result of effective marketing and a hewn-from-solid reputation. The 244 became an upper-middle class icon in the UK, but despite the image, it wasn't a great car to drive, and offered little in the way of inspiration. Massive safety weren't sexy, but they were certainly effective...