Also reliability is required, which puts the Evo and certainly an Alfa out of the running.
fastest, most badass, reliable unmodified car for £10k.
I think that's a myth. I did nearly 300k miles over three used Alfa's in the 90's with nothing more than servicing and maintenance. I think I had the throttle stick open once on my 145 Cloverleaf, but I was young, so drive it at full throttle 98% of the time anyway!
I see what you're saying Jaybee (and you can tell I'm also an Alfa fan) - if it must be front wheel drive, they're a good option but I think there are much better 'proper' drivers cars for the same money.
But I am saving hard for a Giulia Cloverleaf (can't spell the Italian version of the name they use now).