Though we don't believe the best benchmark for buying an all-new vehicle is a drag race, we do find them entertaining as hell. In this particular case, an English publication rounded up what I'd like to call "starter sports cars" and decided to see which one is the fastest.
None are really expensive — with exception of the Porsche, which depends on how option hungry you get — and all are involving, engaging vehicles to drive. They put the "fu" in "fun."
That said, just for giggles, take a look at which vehicles come out on top and which come out on bottom. There may actually be a surprise here.
When it comes to buying a sports car in 2014, there really is a huge level of choice. Whether you're after a comfortable four-seater that you can use every day, or more of a hardcore stripped-out racer, there's plenty of choice in the marketplace.
At the more affordable end of the market there's Audi's TT and Toyota's GT86 -- two practical coupes that are available for around £25,000.
Stepping up in price are the Porsche Boxster and Nissan 370Z Nismo, a pair of six-cylinder two-seaters that are as powerful as they look.
Finally, there's the Lotus Elise S Club Racer, a totally no-nonsense lightweight sports car with a comparatively tiny engine, but impressive performance figures.
But which is quickest in a straight line? The powerful Porsche, the lightweight Lotus, or the all-conquering Audi? There's only one way to find out -- a drag race at Rockingham Motor Speedway.