1. Caterham Super Sprint 60th Anniversary

USA is back! No not that USA. Rather this segment I created that details cars that have been spec’d in a tasteful fashion. We start with a beautiful Caterham Super Sprint 60th Anniversary. Before we gloss over the details, can we just appreciate how beautiful this car is? It comes in Watkins Glen White and the cast iron wheels match and complete a lovely ivory paint scheme. The interior is festooned in tan Scottish leather with diamond quilted seats. Only 60 have been built and this one in this colour is a one-off. Power comes from a 660 CC turbocharged three-cylinder good for 71 kW. Don’t be fooled, with the lack of mass, skinny tyres, and the unique old racing car dimensions, you need to have your wits about you.

2. BMW M2 CS

The BMW M2 is a car that has maintained faith M driving enthusiasts have in the brand. It’s a car that demonstrates how much weight and gadgets ruin the modern driving experience, despite the fact that the M2 isn’t exactly “light”. The recipe is compelling. Take the best bits from the bigger cars, shoehorn and detune those bits into the smallest chassis. The CS is naturally the tastiest M2 of the lot. Less weight, more power and ceramic brakes. The exterior comes in a vibrant Misano Blue against the beautiful light gold CS wheels. The only downside to this example is that it’s not manual. It’s automatic, but at least it has a dual clutch transmission for crisp up and downshifts. I personally have a preference for the non-competition M2, but the CS is a lovely machine.

3. Mercedes-Benz SL600

The final car is the Mercedes SL. The R129 is arguably the most loved generation of the SL. The squared off design language is period correct. This particular example is very elegant as it comes in a triple-black spec. The elegance ascends to the next tier thanks to the beautiful 18″ turbine style wheels. Power comes from the legendary M120 naturally aspirated V12 that’s paired with a buttery smooth five-speed torque converter. It should make for an excellent coastal cruiser.