FAST, cheap, and reliable – it’s the holy trinity that many petrolheads spend years and thousands of pounds chasing.
Ticking one or two off the list when it comes to second-hand cars is simple enough – but all three? That’s a rare combination.
However, a recent Reddit thread set out to uncover a motor that satisfies all three crucial criteria.
Here are six of the best.
Skoda Octavia vRS
Skoda Octavia vRS[/caption]
Offering perhaps the ultimate blend in performance and practicality, the Skoda Octavia vRS – the Czech brand’s high-performance variant of the popular saloon – can be picked up at a bargain price in 2025.
Available as both a saloon and as an estate, the vRS is renowned for its sharp handling, powerful performance, and understated design.
It typically features a range of turbocharged engines, including petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid options – although the most reliable option is undoubtedly the petrol iteration.
It looks the business too, sporting alloy wheels, aggressive bumpers, and the iconic vRS badging.
Its interior offers premium materials too, while newer models feature advanced tech, including a digital cockpit and a large touchscreen infotainment system.
And it goes without saying that the Octavia has a spacious cabin and generous boot, making it a versatile choice for enthusiasts with a family.
Honda Civic FN2
Honda Civic FN2[/caption]
The FN2 iteration of the Honda Civic has long been a favourite among boy racers, thanks to its sharp styling and high-revving VTEC engine.
And in recent years, second-hand examples have become surprisingly affordable, making them an attractive option for enthusiasts on a budget.
The main challenge lies in availability, as these cars are becoming increasingly hard to find, but examples with fewer than 100,000 miles on the clock for under £6,000 can be picked up.
Even higher-mileage models are worth considering, given Honda’s renowned reliability.
With proper care, these cars can deliver years of trouble-free fun.
BMW e90 330i
BMW e90 330i[/caption]
Any BMW fitted with the brand’s M57 engine is worth considering, particularly for its reputation for reliability – though this heavily depends on a solid maintenance history.
As always, proper care is key to avoiding common pitfalls.
Issues such as water pump failures and gasket leaks are well-documented and can be expensive to address.
Additionally, while second-hand prices for these are relatively affordable, running costs – like fuel, insurance, and repairs – can quickly mount up, making ownership less budget-friendly.
But the E90 330i, in particular, stands out for its performance.
Powered by a smooth, naturally aspirated 3.0-litre straight-six engine, it delivers impressive speed, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.1 seconds.
VW Golf GTI (MK5)
Fast, cheap, and reliable is very much hot hatchback territory, which is where the Golf GTI – perhaps the ultimate hot hatch – comes in.
Renowned for blending everyday practicality with thrilling performance, the Golf GTI – with the now slightly older MK5 in mind – boasts a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that’s certainly punchy.
Second-hand examples have become widely available in recent years, with plenty of options coming in at reasonable prices.
However, finding a well-maintained car is key, as neglected models can suffer from costly issues like timing chain tensioner failures, DSG gearbox problems, and carbon build-up on the intake valves.
Despite these potential pitfalls, the Mk5 GTI is generally reliable if cared for properly.
Saab 9-3 Viggen
Saab 9-3 Viggen Convertible[/caption]
The Saab 9-3 Viggen is a rare gem in the world of second-hand cars.
While Saab as a brand may be long gone, its legacy lives on – with the 9-3 still a familiar sight on UK roads.
Produced from 1998 until Saab’s demise in 2014, the 9-3 came in various guises, but it’s the seldom-seen Viggen iteration that truly excites petrolheads.
With only 4,600 examples ever built, the Viggen is a rare beast, distinguished by its aggressive styling and impressive performance.
Under the bonnet lies a 2.3-litre turbocharged engine, delivering enough power to rival contemporaries like the Mercedes C43, Audi S4, and BMW M3 of its era.
Despite their scarcity, Viggens do occasionally surface on platforms like Autotrader or Cars & Classic, often at surprisingly reasonable prices.
For instance, we recently spotted one listed for just £4,950.
However, prospective buyers should be aware that sourcing parts for Saab models can be challenging, given the brand’s discontinuation.
For those seeking a fast, characterful, and rare alternative to the mainstream, the Saab 9-3 Viggen remains an intriguing choice – if you can find one.
Mazda 3 MPS
Mazda 3 MPS[/caption]
Another wonderful, all-rounded hot hatch is the Mazda3 MPS (Mazda Performance Series) – essentially, the high-performance version of the Mazda3.
First introduced in 2009, it was one of the most powerful hot hatchbacks on the market at the time, boasting an impressive 256 bhp from its turbocharged 2.3-litre engine.
While modern hot hatches have since surpassed it in terms of outright pace and technology, the Mazda3 MPS still holds its own as a capable and exciting car to drive.
For the money, there are few on the market that can match it, with a first-generation Mazda3 MPS available for as little as £3,500 – with a newer model coming in at under £5,000.
What’s more, with proper care, the Mazda3 MPS is a reliable hot hatch, although like any performance car, it’s worth keeping an eye out for a well-maintained example with a full service history.
