Biggest surprise (non-scheme car) was a used Nissan 200SX. On test drive, dealer bloke in passenger seat kept saying “Go on, floor the pedal. See what you’re getting.” Eventually, when I could safely do so, I did. He, of course, was ready for it. I didn’t expect to get physically bashed into the seat by what felt like 2G. Couldn’t believe that anything this cheap could perform like a Porsche.
On Scheme cars, about four cards back, I needed a comfy saloon capable of regular long motorway work. Really liked the Passat but was put off by having to pay extra for almost everything (“Oh, you want WHEELS do you. That’s gonna cost”) Took brief test in basic Skoda Superb. Ordered a higher-range one and was gobsmacked by how much stuff I got for all-in price which was cheaper than the Passat; even down to brollies in the doors. Found it more comfy, quicker and nicer to drive than the Passat.