Best Cars Of 2021 – The Greatest Cars In The World This Year
2021 seems like a long time ago now. Still, it was a spectacular year for high-performance cars so it’s worthwhile looking back at it. We had the privilege of experiencing this awesome batch of impressive models that raised the bar quite high for many of us who lived it.
Manufacturers were showcasing a wide range of impressive machines, from high-tech hybrids to brawny V8s. For every exotic model, such as the Ferrari SF90 Stradale or the Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition, we also got bright-and-bold refreshers like the Mustang Mach-1 and Toyota GR Supra, proving that one could do without a six-figure price tag to deliver thrills.
These cars were faster, more agile, and cooler than ever. From track-ready weapons to weekend cruisers, these top performers made 2021 memorable for the automotive world.
2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is like the best friend who’s always ready for an adventure: lightweight, fun, and unpretentious. Powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine, it delivers 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, which might not sound like a lot on paper but feels plenty in a car weighing just over 2,300 pounds. The Miata is all about balance, not brute force.
With its short wheelbase and near-perfect weight distribution, the Miata dances through corners with an agility few cars can match. The rear-wheel-drive setup and the option of a slick six-speed manual make it pure roadster joy. Don’t overlook the retractable soft top, which lets you soak in the sun or stars on demand.
Mazda didn’t add much new for 2021, but honestly, it didn’t need to. The Miata is a classic formula that doesn’t mess with success. Fuel economy is impressive too, at 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, so you don’t have to sacrifice efficiency for fun. Whether you’re commuting, tackling twisty backroads, or cruising to the beach, the Miata feels like a car built for the sheer love of driving.
2021 Ferrari SF90 Stradale
The Ferrari SF90 Stradale is what happens when Ferrari decides to flex its tech and performance muscles all at once. It’s a plug-in hybrid supercar, blending a screaming 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 with three electric motors to produce a jaw-dropping 986 horses and 590 pound-feet of torque. This was the most powerful road car Ferrari made at the time, and it shows.
The SF90 rockets from 0-60 mph in just 2.5 seconds. It hits a top speed of 211 mph effortlessly thanks to its all-wheel-drive system that ensures all that power gets to the pavement efficiently. Also worth highlighting is the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that delivers lightning-quick shifts. Despite the hybrid setup, it’s no Prius—this is still a Ferrari through and through, with the electric motors acting as performance boosters rather than eco gimmicks.
The design is pure Ferrari drama. It boasts a low-slung profile, aggressive aero, and a cockpit that looks more like a spaceship than a car. The interior featured Ferrari’s latest tech, including a fully digital gauge cluster and touch-sensitive controls. If you’re worried about hybrid tech ruining Ferrari’s soul, don’t be. The SF90 Stradale is proof that advanced tech and raw emotion can coexist beautifully.
2021 BMW M4
When introduced, the BMW M4 became the ultimate expression of BMW’s engineering prowess. This bimmer blended brute force with precision handling wrapped in a stunning design. Under the hood, you’ve got a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine that churns out 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque in the standard model or an eye-popping 503 horsepower and an extra 73 pounds of torque in the Competition trim. Either way, this is a car that gets your heart racing, especially with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.8 seconds in the Competition model.
The M4 is more than just power; it’s built for the track. With a rear-wheel-drive setup (or optional xDrive all-wheel drive for the Competition) and a 6-speed manual transmission (or an 8-speed automatic for the Competition), the M4 offers an engaging driving experience that balances raw power with smooth shifts and pinpoint precision. The M Dynamic Mode lets you dial in your driving preferences for ultimate performance on any surface.
Design-wise, the M4 doesn’t shy away from being bold. It sports an aggressive front grille and muscular stance. Inside, the M4 combines high-tech displays with luxury materials, ensuring you’re comfortable whether you’re hitting the track or cruising the streets.
2021 Toyota GR Supra
The Toyota GR Supra is the cool kid on the block: sharp, bold, and a little flashy. Under the hood, it’s packing either a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque or the more exciting 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six that cranks out 382 horses and a torque of 368 lb-ft. The latter is the real hero here, giving the Supra its iconic grunt.
With rear-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission, this car rockets from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds with the 3.0 engine. The chassis is a masterpiece of balance and agility, thanks to its BMW Z4 DNA, and it hugs corners like it was born on the Nürburgring.
Toyota didn’t just slap its badge on a BMW, though. The Supra’s styling is pure Toyota flair—sweeping lines, an aggressive front end, and a double-bubble roof that screams supercar vibes. Inside, you’ll find a cozy cockpit with an 8.8-inch infotainment system and premium materials that remind you this isn’t just any sports car.
It’s not perfect—some fans miss the manual transmission option—but the GR Supra is undeniably a blast to drive. It’s quick, sharp, and dripping with character. A true comeback story done right.
2021 Chevrolet Corvette
The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette, aka the C8, is proof that America can build a supercar on a budget. This mid-engine marvel is powered by a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8, delivering a hearty 490 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. To get the five more horses and five pound-feet of extra you have to opt for the Z51 Performance Package. With an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the C8 launches from 0-60 mph in a blistering 2.9 seconds.
The Corvette’s mid-engine layout isn’t just for show since it dramatically improves handling, making this car stick to the road like a slot car. Whether you’re carving through a mountain pass or tearing up a track, the balance and responsiveness are on point. And thanks to the magnetic ride control, it’s surprisingly comfortable for everyday driving.
Outside, the Corvette looks like it should cost twice as much. Chevrolet designers went with sharp angles, wide hips, and an exotic supercar silhouette. Inside, Chevy went upscale with premium materials, a driver-focused cockpit, and an 8-inch touchscreen that’s easy to use. There’s even a front trunk (or “frunk”) for extra practicality.
With its jaw-dropping performance, killer looks, and a starting price that doesn’t require a trust fund, the 2021 Corvette is an all-American powerhouse.
2021 Porsche 718 Cayman
The Porsche 718 Cayman is a sports car purist’s dream. It perfectly blends precision engineering and old-school driving fun. Powertrain options include: the base model with a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four pumping out 300 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Move up to the Cayman S for a 2.5-liter flat-four making 350 horses, or go all out with the Cayman GTS 4.0 or GT4, which feature a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine delivering 394 and 414 horses, respectively.
Transmission options include a slick six-speed manual or a lightning-quick seven-speed PDK automatic, making it perfect for track days or spirited weekend drives. The Cayman’s mid-engine layout ensures razor-sharp handling, and its feedback-heavy steering feels alive in your hands. This is a car that truly connects you to the road.
While it’s smaller than its 911 big brother, the Cayman doesn’t feel like a compromise. The styling is timeless Porsche—clean lines, wide haunches, and just enough aggression. Inside, you’ll find a driver-focused cockpit with high-end materials and a 7-inch touchscreen for infotainment. The 2021 Cayman is proof that sometimes less really is more. It’s the sports car distilled to its essence.
2021 Lamborghini Huracán EVO
The Lamborghini Huracán EVO is a fusion of savage power and cutting-edge tech, wrapped in that unmistakable Italian flair. Propelled by a naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10, this Lambo roars with 631 ponies and 443 pound-feet of torque. Its powertrain allows it to go from 0-60 mph in a mere 2.9 seconds, topping out at 202 mph.
What sets the EVO apart is Lamborghini’s next-gen tech. It features a sophisticated LDVI (Lamborghini Dinamica Veicolo Integrata) system that uses real-time data to adjust everything from traction to steering. Combine that with rear-wheel steering and torque vectoring, and you get handling that’s both razor-sharp and confidence-inspiring.
The EVO’s design is unmistakably Lamborghini—angular, low-slung, and full of aggressive aerodynamics. The rear diffuser and active aero elements aren’t just for show; they help keep the car planted at high speeds. Inside, the cockpit blends luxury with high-tech, featuring an 8.4-inch touchscreen for infotainment and controls integrated into the center console. It even has Amazon Alexa for voice commands. The Huracán EVO offers a sensory overload of sound, speed, and style. It’s a Lamborghini in its purest, most exhilarating form.
2021 McLaren Artura
The 2021 McLaren Artura was a game-changer for the British automaker. It marked its first series-production hybrid supercar. At its heart is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 paired with an electric motor, together cranking out a combined 671 horsepower and 531 pound feet of torque. With a lightweight carbon-fiber chassis and a curb weight of just 3,303 pounds, the Artura was all about bringing hybrid tech into McLaren’s signature lightweight philosophy.
The Artura could sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.0 seconds and had a top speed of 205 mph. But what really set it apart was its ability to run in pure EV mode for up to 19 miles—a supercar with a green streak. McLaren also equipped it with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and an electronic rear differential for precise handling.
The design? Classic McLaren, with a clean, aerodynamic silhouette and dihedral doors that open dramatically upward. The interior kept things minimalist but added updated tech like a high-resolution digital gauge cluster and a central touchscreen.
For 2021, the Artura wasn’t just about raw performance—it was McLaren’s statement that hybrid tech could be thrilling. It was an evolution of the supercar formula that kept McLaren firmly in the future.
2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach 1 brought a historic nameplate back to life, and it didn’t disappoint. Sitting between the Mustang GT and Shelby variants, the Mach 1 was all about offering more power, better handling, and a nod to its heritage. Under the hood was the GT’s trusty 5.0-liter V8, but it got a boost to 480 ponies and 420 pound-feet of torque, thanks to an intake manifold borrowed from the Shelby GT350 and other performance upgrades.
With a standard 6-speed Tremec manual (cue the applause!) or an optional 10-speed automatic, the Mach 1 could hit 60 mph in just 4 seconds. Its track-ready pedigree included a revised suspension, upgraded cooling systems, and aerodynamic enhancements like a unique front splitter and rear diffuser. Opt for the Handling Package, and you got even stickier tires, a rear spoiler, and stiffer components.
Visually, the Mach 1 turned heads with retro-inspired graphics, distinctive grille elements, and a choice of bold color options. Inside, it stayed true to Mustang’s driver-focused design, with a mix of classic vibes and modern tech like a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. For fans of Mustang’s storied history, the 2021 Mach 1 hit the sweet spot> powerful, capable, and brimming with nostalgia.
2021 Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition
The Aston Martin Vantage F1 Edition took the already stunning Vantage and gave it a shot of adrenaline. Inspired by the Formula 1 Safety Car, this special edition came from the factory with extra muscle, sharper handling, and aggressive styling to back it all up. Under the hood, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 got a boost to 527 horsepower (24 horses over the standard Vantage) and 505 pound-feet of torque.
With an 8-speed automatic transmission tuned for quicker shifts, the F1 Edition could rocket from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds. Aston Martin also reworked the chassis, adding stiffer suspension components and tweaks to the steering for better precision. Oh, and it came with bespoke Pirelli tires wrapped around lightweight 21-inch wheels—because looking good while sticking to the road is essential.
The design screamed race-inspired with a massive front splitter, wider rear wing, and plenty of carbon-fiber accents. Inside, you got a mix of luxury and sportiness, with Alcantara, leather, and F1 Edition branding reminding you this wasn’t an ordinary Vantage. The F1 Edition was an Aston Martin that wore its motorsport influence proudly—and performed just as boldly.
