Best Sports Cars of the 2000s

Why We Picked It:

The third-generation BMW M3, or E46, is the most impressive example of how classic good looks and modern performance coexist. The M3 E46 holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts for many reasons, and pinpointing just one would be a disservice to its multifaceted brilliance.

The 3.2-liter S54 engine was an engineering marvel of high-revving, naturally aspirated power, with its distinct throttle bodies and many upgrades.

A second-generation SMG automated manual transmission or a novel variable M differential transferred power to the rear wheels from the engine. Even though it has enough visual muscle to be noticed, the E46 keeps a straightforward demeanor.

A 20-mm flare to the wheel wells, a small power bulge in the aluminum hood, and four short exhausts under the back bumper make this possible.

Why We Picked It:

The 1998 Audi TT is a slim coupe with subtle, understated flourishes and Bauhaus-inspired elements that give it a dynamic look. Audi unveiled a completely redesigned flagship model in 2003 to iterate into a legendary sports vehicle.

That vehicle was a 3.2 V6 quattro TT. Additionally, a lot of effort was put into this prototype to ensure the performance pedigree of the TT. While the remainder of the range suffered from turbo lag, gearheads chose the top-tier Audi TT due to the VR6's improved driving experience.

All versions of the Audi TT's original design came with a manual gearbox. Nevertheless, the German carmaker changed things with the flagship model, which incorporated the DSG transmission.

The TT 3.2 was relatively rare compared to its mass-produced rivals, especially in manual transmission. This scarcity could make it collectible with a rising value in the future.

Why We Picked It:

This legendary Japanese sports car's fifth generation debuted in 2007 for the 2008 model year, and it was the first to drop the Skyline name in favor of simply GT-R. It helped Nissan prove it could hold its own against Lamborghini and Porsche.

A contributing factor to this was the 2005 expiration of the infamous Gentleman's Agreement, which capped the horsepower of all Japanese production automobiles at 276. The GT-R R35 was incredibly fast, with a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that produced 473 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque.

The GT-R was packed with cutting-edge technology, including all-wheel drive, launch control, and a sophisticated suspension system that could adjust to road conditions. Its unique ATTESA E-TS AWD system could send power to the front or rear wheels as needed, which helped to give it incredible grip and handling.

Why We Picked It:

Many fans largely ignore the 996 Carrera due to its headlamps, which lack the classic 911 appearance, even though it is quick, fun, dependable, and reasonably priced.

Nonetheless, the 996 has been the "ugly duckling" of the 911 family and has been ignored for a long time. Considering its manual transmission, all-wheel drive, handling, and performance, you'll notice that this generation is significantly underappreciated.

The heart of the 996 Turbo was a 3.6-liter flat-six engine that was twin-turbocharged and produced an impressive 450 horsepower. Porsche's renowned all-wheel-drive system distributed this power to all four wheels, resulting in blistering acceleration and precise handling.

But it wasn't all about brute power; the 996 Turbo also brought advancements like VTG turbochargers, which improved performance and efficiency. The cabin was a fusion of sportiness and elegance, with an emphasis on the driver and an abundance of high-quality materials.

Why We Picked It:

Renowned for its innovative design and exceptional engineering, the 2002 Honda NSX was an outstanding sports vehicle.

Choose between a 290-hp, 3.2-liter V6 with a slick 6-speed manual for a raw, connected driving experience or a 252-hp, 3.0-liter V6 with a Formula One-inspired paddle-shift automatic for effortless performance.

Its all-aluminum double-wishbone suspension and variable power steering delivered razor-sharp handling and intuitive control. Think of a ballerina dancing on ice, but with the grip of a mountain goat!

Despite its supercar performance, the NSX offered surprising practicality with a roomy trunk and comfortable ride. Think of a business suit that transforms into a superhero costume!

The 2002 Honda NSX wasn't just fast but a well-rounded package that blurred the lines between everyday driver and weekend track warrior.

Why We Picked It:

The GTO nameplate, dormant since 1974, returned with a vengeance. Based on the Holden Monaro platform from Australia, this modern interpretation boasts impressive performance specifications. It captured the spirit of the original with its long hood, bulging fenders, and aggressive stance.

The GTO borrowed the Corvette's 5.7L LS1 V8, pumping out 350 horsepower and a throaty growl. The rear-wheel-drive layout and optional six-speed manual transmission delivered a raw, connected driving experience, making the GTO a proper driver's car.

Unlike some retro throwbacks, the GTO wasn't stuck in the past. It offered modern amenities like traction control, ABS brakes, and even optional navigation. This blend of classic muscle with contemporary tech made the GTO a unique and exciting proposition.

Compared to its European and Japanese rivals, the GTO offered a staggering amount of performance for the price.

Why We Picked It:

The goal of the two-seater, mid-engine Lotus Europa S was to provide Lotus owners with a sportscar experience that considerably improved touring and cruising capability. The Grand Tourer (GT) was a major influence on the Europa S.

The Europa S's higher levels of refinement and convenience for drivers would complement the Elise and Exige models' simplicity. The Europa S is very much in the Lotus line. It has an Opel 2.0-liter engine with 200 horsepower that can propel it from 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds and reach up to 139 mph.

The Lotus Europa S was a desirable entry-level sports vehicle due to its lightweight construction, mid-engine layout, turbocharged power, and agile handling, even though it may not have received the same praise as other models with greater performance.

Why We Picked It:

Few vehicles in history have placed such a premium on aerodynamic efficiency as the Bristol Fighter. An exquisite example of the natural grace that results from putting function before form, The Fighter is a work of art. The result is a top speed of 210 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds.

In contrast to conventional high-revving or forced-induction engines, this vehicle's enormous 8.3-liter V10 Viper power plant reacts precisely to the driver's throttle input, producing 525 hp and 525 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual gearbox transfers the engine's output to the back wheels.

The allure of the driving experience is amplified by the improved suspension and chassis, which offer grip and agility similar to a race vehicle. On tighter, more challenging courses, the importance of Fighter's unmatched visibility and noticeably small exterior dimensions becomes more apparent.

Why We Picked It:

The 8.3-liter V10 engine produced 510 hp and 535 lb-ft of torque and was its beating heart. The sensation of releasing that force was intense and direct. You had to pay close attention to the 6-speed manual transmission since shifting gears physically connected you to the wild spirit of the car.

Even though the 2008 Viper SRT10 had tremendous power, the Viper was as nimble as a tightrope dancer. Its suspension was advanced, and its lightweight aluminum body kept it attached to the road even in the most congested turns.

Speed wasn't the only thing the Viper offered; it was an experience for the senses. Immersed in the exhilarating sound of the engine, the sensation of the wind in your hair, and the grip of the G-forces, every ride was a thrilling adventure.

Why We Picked It:

The Honda S2000, produced from 1999 to 2009, remains a beloved car. It wasn't just another mass-market sports car; it was a potent combination of a high-revving engine, razor-sharp handling, and an almost spiritual connection between driver and machine.

Despite being a convertible, the S2000's notoriously stiff chassis is mainly responsible for its reputation as one of the rawest production road cars for driving. The 2.0L VTEC engine, capable of reaching 9,000 rpm, generated 240 horsepower, and the power was transmitted to the rear wheels through a silky 6-speed manual transmission. Later S2000 versions used a stroked 2.2-liter engine, which, with slightly shorter gearing, boosted acceleration and provided more low-end torque.

The Honda S2000 excels in every way a driver-oriented, naturally aspirated sports vehicle should. Many people are interested in collecting it and acquiring a piece of its famous history.