When I was playing the most recent NFS game, I used the Punto forever because I kept on having bad luck. I was sort of bitter about that too.(At the end of each level you get a chance to win the title of the car you beat. It is random and I was having horrible luck). It wasnt even the Punto´s fault.
I guess it is bad form to rip the little Fiat on an Alfa board. I agree that it is much better looking than its competition.