Actually that’s not true: the top three were always going to be there (though not necessarily in that order) and probably the fourth placed car too. But what should come fifth and, more to the point, which cars should fail to reach this final reckoning drove us almost to distraction.

We don’t expect anyone, let alone everyone to agree with our choices, and if by making them we spark a debate, we will welcome it be it heated or otherwise. For now though, let us celebrate those we have chosen, from the very old to the spanking new.