  Recent results by Benayoun et al. comparing the predictions of a range of
existing models based on the Vector Meson Dominance hypothesis are summarized
and discussed. These are compared with data on e+ e- -> pi+ pi- and e+ e- ->
mu+ mu- cross-sections and the phase and near-threshold behavior of the
timelike pion form factor, with the aim of determining which (if any) of these
models is capable of providing an accurate representation of the full range of
experimental data. We find that, of the models considered, only that proposed
by Bando et al. is able to consistently account for all information, provided
one allows its parameter "a" to vary from the usual value of 2 to 2.4. Our fit
with the Bando model gives a point-like coupling gamma pi+ pi- of magnitude
approximately -e/6, while the common formulation of VMD excludes such a term.
The resulting values for the rho mass and pi+ pi- and e+ e- partial widths as
well as the branching ratio for the decay omega -> pi+ pi- obtained within the
context of this model are consistent with previous results.
