These are a very underrated little car really. Not ever so quick, but the chassis is a peach and the steering/gear shift are some of the very best around at any price point. Ford really knew how to make a car drive at the turn of the century. Hard to believe this is based on the same basic underpinnings of the MK3 Fiesta, which was a pretty poor handler.

They just need a bit more go really. I think a 2.0-litre Duratec would be my swap of choice, preferably with cams and throttle bodies for about 200bhp. Would be an absolute weapon on track.