The default choice in the compact premium sports cars segment is the Porsche Cayman S. Some competitors may be better in certain areas but, as a whole, the Cayman is the best all-around package.

On the other hand, choosing a sports car has to do more with the heart than with the brain. That’s where the Alfa Romeo 4C steps in: a lot of people would reach for their cheque book on looks alone. It doesn’t hurt that it also boasts a carbon fiber chassis or that it’s more exclusive than most rivals, either.

Chris Harris raved about the 4C when he first drove it in Italy. Then again, UK roads are another story altogether; plus, this time he has brought the class benchmark to see if the diminutive Italian can upstage it.

You can find out his verdict by watching the video right after the break.

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