What alternatives exists if there is a need to have a 3V3 processor drive 5V signals on a ribbon cable, where the signals must be buffered and reach speeds of up to 5MHz, but it isn't known beforehand which signals are inputs and which are outputs?

Are there any chips similar to 74HCT245 etc, but with each signal having individual configuration of data direction, so the chip starts in tristate or input mode, and then allowing the processor to set up the correct configuration based on what equipment is connected on the ribbon cable?

I kind of think there was a thread about similar buffer chips earlier, but can't seem to locate it.

Edit: Oops - did intend thread for chat board.

Edit: Seems to be this thread - but the Maxim chip was suitable for low-speed signals, since it doesn't allow direct pin access.
http://old.8052.com/forum/read.phtml?id=179008