FOR any enthusiast, the hot hatch is usually the first step on the ladder of performance cars, writes Matt Joy. By their very nature, enhanced versions of humdrum hatchbacks are far more accessible to the average driver than more exotic and exclusive brands. Backed by the same dealer networks and sharing parts with their cheaper siblings, they are the easiest way of owning more than just humble transport. Their popularity has rarely waned over the last 20 years, so there are plenty to choose from whatever your budget. But if you are in the market for a car of this nature, it's important to bear in mind the extra costs that are often involved. Despite looking much like the regular version, most warmed-over GTis will have higher specification engine, suspension and brake components, as well as bigger wheels and tyres. All of these are likely to be more expensive to replace. Fuel costs are bound to increase, and you can guarantee that insuring your new pride and joy will be more costly.When it comes to finding the right car, history is absolutely vital. Because these cars are often owned by enthusiasts, it's important to find an example that has not suffered at the hands of a previous owner. Go for cars with a full service record, and it may also be worth contacting an owners' club, as members often take great care in maintaining their cars to a high standard. Be wary of modified examples, too. Aftermarket wheels and tyres are not an issue if you can obtain original items easily, but cars with major modifications under the bonnet or to the exterior are best avoided. Bear these points in mind, and you can get yourself a highly enjoyable car to own and drive. Here are our recommended buys for a whole range of budgets.£500
VW Golf GTi 1984-1992Regarded by many as the definitive hot hatch, the MkII Golf GTi is certainly one of the most popular. Thanks to its largely bullet-proof reliability, even the oldest examples are worth considering. Check the vehicle history carefully, and beware of fakes; the Driver special edition is easy to convert into a GTi lookalike. Most examples will be the eight-valve version at this price, so ignore 16-valve versions for less than £500. A combination of discreet styling, balanced handling and dependability make it a bargain buy. Get yourself a good example and with appropriate maintenance it will last for years. £1,000
Peugeot 205 GTI 1983-1991
You can find examples of this fabulous French rocket for less, but its popularity with undesirables and unsympathetic owners means you should consider £1,000 a minimum figure to pay for a decent example.Poor electrics, rust and shabby trim are all pitfalls with the 205, but mechanically they are relatively reliable for a Peugeot of this era. To drive the 205 GTI is still thrilling, though its tail-happy handling may catch out the unwary. Go for the most expensive car you can afford, and seriously consider an inspection before buying.£5,000
Renault Clio Williams 1993-1995Another gem from France, the Williams was a special edition of the excellent Clio 16V. With a 2.0-litre, 150bhp engine, distinctive gold alloys and blue paint plus chassis revisions, it was a classic hot hatch of the period and remains one of the best-handling front wheel drive cars ever built. Three versions are available, but unusually it's the earliest examples that are most sought-after. However, the later cars had more equipment and make better buys for non-enthusiasts.Pay close attention to the service record and maintenance bills, as the high specification engine needs to be well-maintained. Gearbox and electrical problems are common and look for kerb damage to the alloy wheels. £10,000
Honda Civic Type-R 2002 to dateUsed examples of the Civic Type-R are just creeping under the magic £10k barrier, which makes it outstanding value. With 197bhp from its naturally-aspirated engine, its performance is the most impressive aspect of its abilities. Combined with a slick gear change, sharp handling and unusual styling, new examples are still selling well.With even the earliest examples under five years old, a full Honda service history is a minimum. Examine the bodywork carefully for crash damage, and a HPi check is worth obtaining for peace of mind. If you can live with the firm ride, the Type-R is just as practical as its lesser siblings, and is an easy car to live with and drive. Black and red are the most popular colours, with the silver option harder to find and to sell on.£20,000
Lancia Delta Integrale EvoWith this figure to spend you could drive out of the showroom in any number of brand new super-hatches, but buying a used Delta Integrale will secure you a car that can keep up with super cars in the right conditions. Built to conquer the World Rally Championship (which it did, six times) it has a powerful turbocharged engine and four-wheel drive to give incredible performance in all weathers.The Integrale is a left-hand drive only specialist machine, and is not for the weak of heart or wallet. £20k will get you a last of the line Evo II model, which is better built and more reliable. Even so, expect some electrical gremlins and periodical overhaul work to be required. Careful and regular maintenance is essential to keep a car like this in top condition. Go for a low-mileage example from a dealer, and insist on some sort of warranty.If you can cope with its demands, the Delta Integrale will provide a fantastic driving and ownership experience. It is still regarded as one of the finest drivers' cars ever made, and is certain to be a future classic.