Fiat Barchetta

Press the little silver button, and the aluminium bar angles out from its hiding place, a bit like a CD ejecting from its slot. Then pull on the end, and the door pops open. Jump in, and continue on your merry way in your merry little roadster. It was a unique entry system, ripped off by Aston Martin with the DB9 and all of its cars since.
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The little Fiat was only slightly spoiled by the keyhole, which sat rather messily, three inches below the handle. But whatever. It still beats a cheap plastic flap.

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Alfa Romeo 147

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Frustrated by the necessary evil of handle clutter, Alfa Romeo found it a new home, away from the pretty lines of the rear doors.

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TVR Tuscan

Yes, we know this is a wing mirror. But on the underside is a little nipple that you push to pop the door open. A bit sexy? No.
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Rolls-Royce Ghost
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This is not a massive fridge. It’s a Rolls-Royce, with rear-hinged doors for a more elegant exit, so you don’t flash your pants to the paps.
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Renault Twingo
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A carry-over from the Renault 5. Instead of pulling it with four fingers, you flick it with two. It’s cheaper than a proper handle…
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McLaren MP4-12C
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Rub your hand under the ridge in the door, and a sensor releases the catch. Shout a magic word to add to the sense of occasion.
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Nissan 350Z
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If there’s an exact opposite of hiding a handle, this is it. Loud, no-nonsense and industrial… just like the car on which it lives.
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Have we missed any? Send your suggestions to topgear@bigroad.com.sg as usual…