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Sports cars are an iconic part of the automotive industry. They are the stars of the professional circuit and play a big role in much of our pop culture like cinema or music videos. Therefore, it is no surprise that many shoppers want a piece of the action. After all, performance cars are all about being the fastest and sexiest things on wheels. Luckily, there are plenty of options in the USA, and while many are expensive, there are some affordable models, too. From all-American classics to the latest new sports car models, there is something for just about everyone. And, to help you find the one that fits you perfectly, we have ranked the best sports cars of 2024 according to our unique BuzzScore.

Best Cheap Sports Cars

2023 Honda Civic Si Sedan
Base MSRP
$28,800
Available Trims
2023 Honda Civic Manual
Make
Honda
Model
Civic Si Sedan
Engine
1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower
200 hp
Fuel Economy
27/37 MPG

Best Luxury Sports Cars

2023 Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo
Base MSRP
$136,000
Make
Porsche
Model
Taycan Sport Turismo
Engine
Electric
Horsepower
509 hp
Fuel Economy
80/80 MPG
2024 Porsche Taycan
Base MSRP
$90,900
Make
Porsche
Model
Taycan
Engine
Electric
Horsepower
321 hp
Fuel Economy
79/88 MPG
2023 Porsche Taycan Turbo
Base MSRP
$153,300
Make
Porsche
Model
Taycan Turbo
Engine
Electric
Horsepower
616 hp
Fuel Economy
81/80 MPG

Best Sports Convertibles

2023 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet
Base MSRP
$195,700
Make
Porsche
Model
911 Turbo Cabriolet
Engine
3.8L Twin-Turbo Flat 6 Gas
Horsepower
572 hp
Fuel Economy
15/20 MPG
2023 Audi R8 Spyder
Base MSRP
$171,000
Make
Audi
Model
R8 Spyder
Engine
5.2L V10 Gas
Horsepower
562 hp
Fuel Economy
14/23 MPG
2023 Porsche 718 Boxster
Base MSRP
$65,500
Make
Porsche
Model
718 Boxster
Engine
2.0L Turbo Flat 4 Gas
Horsepower
300 hp
Fuel Economy
20/25 MPG

Best Hybrid Sports Cars

2023 Lexus LC Hybrid
Base MSRP
$100,450
Available Trims
2023 Lexus LC 500h Coupe
Make
Lexus
Model
LC Hybrid
Engine
3.5L V6 Hybrid
Horsepower
354 hp
Fuel Economy
26/33 MPG
2023 Porsche Panamera E-Hybrid Sport Turismo
Base MSRP
$113,000
Make
Porsche
Model
Panamera E-Hybrid Sport Turismo
Engine
2.9L Twin-Turbo V6 Plug-in Hybrid
Horsepower
455 hp
Fuel Economy
TBC

Characteristics of Fast Sports Cars

The top-rated sports cars are more than just fast. In fact, there are a variety of different classifications within the segment, each with its own defining characteristics. However, there is a common thread that runs through them all. These are the qualities that are essential in even the most basic of sports cars on our list:

  • Performance: Of course, speed comes first, but you need good handling, too, and the overall driving experience should be enjoyable. You aren’t going fast just for the sake of it or to get from point A to point B in record time; you are doing it to have a good time, and how your car reacts to your inputs should reflect this.
  • Appeal: While some sports cars let the driving do the talking, others make a louder statement with their looks. Sensuous curves and bright colors are common, ensuring that all eyes are riveted to your car as you go whizzing by. They say to feel good, you should try to look good, and these beauties will definitely deliver on both fronts.
  • Practicality: This is more a quality that stands out for its nonexistence. The majority of sports cars are two-seaters and those that try to squeeze in a rear bench usually do so to the detriment of the poor passengers that have to use them. And even those that can support more than two people can almost never handle their luggage. The trunks here are about as big as the armrest cubby.
  • Price: Yes, it is an undeniable fact that these vehicles cost more than your average sedan. There are some comparatively affordable options, but even these will cost you a lot once you start clocking the miles and the fuel bill comes a’knocking. Even smaller models with a turbocharged engine have only mediocre mpg.

What to Consider Before Buying a New Sports Car

There are plenty of sports car brands in the US, each offering its own unique flavor to the popular segment. However, none is perfect, as much as they may claim otherwise. And genuine sports car models might not even be for you when an athletic executive or SUV would better suit your needs. But if you have your heart set on one, here are the pros and cons to consider:

Pros

  • A multitude of choices to suit every taste
  • Powerful motors and stimulating dynamics
  • Many are manufactured in the USA and are relatively cheap
  • Aggressive and stylish
  • Customization potential

Cons

  • Some have lofty price tags
  • Many score low on mpg
  • Practicality comes second

FAQs

What are the top-rated sports cars?

You can’t mention the segment without thinking of the Porsche 911 Turbo and Audi R8. Despite their breathtaking performance, these are also comfortable enough to drive daily and give plenty of security thanks to AWD and advanced driver aids.

Which muscle cars are worth your money?

The Mustang Shelby GT500 is a marvel of engineering that combines straight-line performance with astonishing track prowess, but if such incredible power is too much for you, the Bullitt and even the stock Mustang GT are also outstanding alternatives that slot quite high in our rankings.

Which are the most practical supercars?

With quick sedans becoming more and more popular, most brands have invested heavily in the future. One of our favorite small four-doors is the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45, but if you can afford the apex, a hybrid like the Porsche Taycan Turbo is tough to beat in any metric.