Alfa Romeo really does have this styling thing nailed. The Spider is another example of how the company’s rich heritage and distinctive shield grille can be brought bang up to date. Despite this Spider’s age, it still looks thoroughly modern. While it shares most of its styling with the Alfa Brera coupe, the Spider is a little shorter and the flat rear deck and rollover hoops give it its own personality. It never fails to turn heads.

Alfa Romeo’s design team put its stamp on the Spider’s interior too. The Alfa badge is embossed into the headrests of the gorgeous leather seats (where fitted) and there is much more creative use of colour than in the Alfa’s sombre rivals – such as the Audi TT. The instruments are all angled towards the driver and though the switchgear is ageing, it’s laid out logically and easy to use. Quality is good, as befits the price tag.