Seven cars that should make a comeback

Given to the world in 1976 and, five generations later, taken from us in 2004, the mid-engined Esprit was a sports car beloved by many, not least because of its submarine adventures in The Spy Who Loved Me, but also because of its sweet handling and entertaining performance.

Lotus teased a new version in 2010 to rival Ferrari’s 458 Italia, but announced four years later that it would not go ahead. Unacceptable! The 488 needs a British rival. Get on it, Hethel.

Hummer H1

In the days of social responsibility and downsizing, reviving a huge gas-guzzling piece of Americana might not seem a great idea. But 10 years after it was discontinued, we say reinvent it as an in-your-face hydrogen fuel cell-powered vehicle, emitting nothing more than water and freedom.

If Arnie can become governor of California, then his favourite ride can become a symbol of high-riding environmentalism. Who needs the Tesla Model X’s silly doors?

Ford Sierra RS Cosworth

It’s almost 25 years since the Sierra RS Cosworth was discontinued, but it still draws a large smile from any fan of Blue Oval performance. With an enviable racing pedigree and plenty of room for modifications, it’s a cult classic that deserves a successor.

The Sierra name is now adorning GMC pick up trucks in the US, so let’s take the spirit to Ford’s descendant. We want a 500bhp, rear-biased, all-wheel-drive RS Mondeo.

Maserati Birdcage

The Tipo 61 acquired its nickname for obvious reasons – a complex tubular space-frame chassis that was revolutionary in the sports car world back in 1959. Only 16 were ever made.

The MC12 of the noughties was liveried in its honour, and a concept tribute was made in 2005, but Maseratis these days are stylish machines but too focused on comfort and a nice noise. Someone at Modena needs to right that wrong and build an out-and-out, cutting-edge performance car.

BMW 507