I think the car you test drove was probably in need of work. My standard EsCos kicks the arse out of the company 3.2 Vectras I used to drive. If you want Evo performance, stage 3 tuning (SS exhaust, chip, fuel pump, injectors etc) is not a large expense (£1500? Less?) and will get you c.330bhp and low 4 0-60's.

I'm sure plenty of people can give you proper details.