All articles tagged with #sports cars
The piece argues turbochargers add complexity, lag and noise, and highlights five naturally aspirated performance cars—the Subaru BRZ, Ford Mustang GT and Dark Horse, Chevrolet Corvette Stingray/Grand Sport (NA versions; ZR1s use turbos), Porsche 911 GT3, and Ferrari 12Cilindri—demonstrating how high-revving NA engines can deliver engaging power and distinctive sound without turbochargers.
From Toyota’s early Sports 800 and the 2000GT through the Celica and Supra generations to the AE86 and MR2, the brand built a legendary sports-car lineage that evolved into modern halo/hot-hatch machines like the GR86, GR Yaris, and GR Corolla, culminating in the high-performance GR GT as Gazoo Racing pursues a road-to-race philosophy with driver-centric, lightweight, and AWD/firepower-focused machines.
The article compiles 16 sports cars available under $30,000 on the used market, highlighting reliability from sources like J.D. Power, U.S. News, KBB and RepairPal. It includes models such as the 2015 Porsche Cayman, 2019 BMW Z4, 2017 Mercedes SLC, 2023 Toyota GR86, 2017 Audi TT S, 2016 Chevrolet Corvette C7, 2018 Jaguar F-Type, 2012 Porsche Boxster, 2012 Mercedes SLK/SLC, 2023 Subaru BRZ, 2016 BMW M2, 2015 Jaguar XK, 2020 Ford Mustang GT, 2018 Alfa Romeo 4C, 2019 Audi S5, and 2023 Mazda MX-5. The piece outlines typical price ranges under $30k and discusses reliability strengths and tradeoffs to help buyers find spirited performance without breaking the bank.
The 2020 Mazda Miata has retained about 64% of its value after five years, with depreciation rates varying by trim, and it compares favorably to similar sports cars like the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ in terms of value retention.
Toyota teases three new sports models debuting on December 4, including a production Lexus Sport Concept, a Toyota GR GT supercar with a hybrid V8 engine, and a race-ready GT3 version, all featuring hybrid powertrains and showcasing Toyota and Lexus's upcoming high-performance offerings.
Toyota and Mazda are collaborating to co-develop the next-generation MX-5 and GR86 sports cars, sharing a platform but using different engines, with production expected to start around mid-2028, highlighting the importance of collaboration in the modern automotive industry.
The article discusses the Porsche 911 GT3 (991 generation) as an otherwise excellent car hampered by a problematic engine, specifically the faulty connecting rod bolts in the 3.8-liter flat-six motor that could lead to engine failure, which Porsche addressed by replacing all engines under warranty.
Despite a shrinking sports car market, automakers continue to produce fun, affordable models like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Ford Mustang, offering enthusiasts a chance to enjoy driving without breaking the bank, though overall sales are declining due to practicality and market shifts towards electric vehicles.
A Ford Mustang driver crashed after disabling traction and stability controls, losing control while making a turn. Despite the severe impact, the driver walked away uninjured. The incident highlights the dangers of reckless driving and the importance of handling high-powered vehicles responsibly.
Jaguar's F-type sports car, known for its style and performance, is now available at prices comparable to a new Mazda Miata, with many models under $40,000. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a classic sports car experience. Despite Jaguar's mixed reliability reputation, options like CarMax's warranties can offer peace of mind. The F-type remains a standout for its balance of style, sound, and value.
Toyota is celebrating the end of the current GR Supra model with the A90 Final Edition, featuring a power boost to 429 horsepower and enhanced performance components. This limited edition, currently available in Japan and Europe, includes advanced suspension, braking, and aerodynamic upgrades, along with a manual transmission and Recaro seats. While it's uncertain if this model will reach the U.S., Toyota hints at a global release and potential future Supra models.
Toyota has officially confirmed the development of a new Celica, marking the return of the iconic sports car nameplate. The announcement was made by Toyota's VP Yuki Nakajima at a public event, with the new Celica expected to launch alongside a new-generation GR86 model. While details remain sparse, the eighth-generation Celica could debut as early as 2025, possibly as a concept. Toyota is also exploring new powertrains, including a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, as part of its future sports car lineup.
The Nissan Z, once highly anticipated, is now facing sluggish sales, leading to significant discounts across the U.S. market. Despite its appealing features like a 400-horsepower engine and manual transmission, the Z struggled with initial supply issues and dealer markups, which dampened consumer interest. Now, with an oversupply, dealers are offering substantial price cuts, with some models available for up to $10,000 off MSRP. This situation highlights the challenges Nissan faced in capturing the sports car market, despite delivering a product that met enthusiast expectations on paper.
Nissan confirms that the next-generation GT-R and Z models are in the works, with plans to reinvent the iconic sports cars while retaining their distinctive characteristics. The next GT-R is expected to draw inspiration from Formula E and maintain its performance capabilities, potentially exploring electric powertrains. Meanwhile, the future Z model may either embrace a full-on new iteration of the 240Z or break from tradition with a progressive design, promising no in-between approach.
Mercedes-AMG has introduced the GT 43, a four-cylinder version of its sports coupe, which offers 416 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft. of torque, a claimed zero-to-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds, and a top speed of 174 mph. The car is lighter than its V8 counterparts and rear-wheel-drive, promising impressive performance and involvement. However, its peaky powerband and reduced cylinder count may not appeal to traditional AMG enthusiasts or Jaguar F-Type owners, while also facing competition from other luxury sports cars like the Lexus LC 500.