2002 BMW M Roadster review from UK and Ireland

No faults.

Blisteringly fast car. The performance figures don't prepare you for the insane acceleration on offer in any gear, and at any revs. Above 4,000 RPM it really goes ballistic, and if there's a better sounding production car engine in existence, I haven't heard it. It still makes the hair stand up on my neck every time I rev it.

Handling is superb too, once you appreciate it will barbecue the rear tyres and hang its tail out at the slightest opportunity. Thankfully it has steering and brakes which are both superb in terms of feel and accuracy. It's the kind of car that makes you seek out deserted roundabouts and lap them several times, completely sideways and feeling like a total hero.

Downsides? I just can't drive it sensibly, and hence destroyed a set of rear tyres in just 7,000 miles! Dealers are also arrogant and pricey. That said, I love this car because it's a total animal, and its 100% driver focussed, just like my previous TVR Chimaera. Except this starts every time I want to use it, and doesn't require top level breakdown cover each time I dare to venture more than a mile from home.

Yes it's a BMW, and hence it has an image problem, but one blast in this mad, rocket-sled powered mini-hearse will sell you. It's totally bonkers and unlike any other BMW, it has a touch of individuality. I'm converted.