I haven't bought a lift yet (next year's budget) but I'm going to go with the Max Jax Portable:
http://www.princessauto.com/car_hoists
It is reasonably priced, more than adequste in its lifting capacity, and can be unbolted from the floor and wheeled away when not in use. Plus (big plus actually) it can be operated on a 110V circuit. Most people don't have 220V in their garage.