Every sports car is defined by its performance capabilities. It is expected to deliver blistering acceleration, razor-sharp handling, and a captivating exhaust note that sets it apart from ordinary family sedans or SUVs. However, there is a common misconception that sports cars must excel on a race track, which is not necessarily true. Not all supercars are track weapons either. Instead, a typical sports car should seamlessly combine performance with practicality, providing an exhilarating driving experience without being excessively demanding.
In addition to performance, modern sports cars are also expected to offer advanced driver-assistance systems, cutting-edge infotainment technology, various connectivity features, and possibly even an adaptive suspension system. After all, why not have these features if they enhance the overall driving experience?
However, it is important to note that not all sports cars are created equal. To truly captivate buyers, a sports car must fulfill its promises without compromise. Furthermore, as consumer expectations continue to evolve, the best sports cars will be those that adapt to change, such as embracing electrification, while staying true to their roots.
While we may not have reached the point where mainstream sports car models adopt battery electric drivetrains, it is likely that it will happen within the next 5-10 years, if not sooner. Until then, traditional internal combustion engines will continue to serve their purpose. This raises the question: which sports cars are truly worth buying in 2024? To help answer that question, we have compiled a shortlist of recommendations. We will first highlight the models that you might want to avoid, before presenting the perfect alternatives.
The following list is not in any particular order.
Jaguar F-Type
The F-Type is undeniably a great car. Even the entry-level R-Dynamic trim offers impressive performance, thanks to its supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 444 horsepower. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 176 mph (284 kph). This rear-wheel drive car features adaptive dynamics, active exhaust, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a heated steering wheel, and keyless entry – all of which contribute to its appeal.
However, the F-Type comes with a hefty price tag starting at $77,900. While it is a luxurious and powerful car, there are more affordable alternatives that offer superior performance. One such alternative is the Toyota GR Supra, which starts at $55,400. Despite having less power, the Supra is actually quicker in terms of acceleration. It provides a compelling combination of affordability and performance that is hard to resist.
The main model GR Supra comes with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine sourced from BMW, producing 382 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, which is impressive enough to outperform the Jaguar.
From the perspective of a passionate driver, the Supra offers excellent value for money compared to the F-Type. The F-Type may seem underwhelming for its price, with complaints about its stiff ride and excessive road noise. If you prioritize handling, there are better options available, such as the Cayman (more on that later).
Recommendation: Toyota GR Supra
Nissan ZPhoto: WheelsAge
The Nissan Z, also known as the Fairlady Z in Japan, is the seventh-generation Z-car from the automaker. Despite sharing the same platform, manual gearbox, and architecture as its predecessor, the 370Z, it serves as a direct successor.
On paper, this is a smart offering, with Nissan embracing the carryover approach from one generation to the next.
In terms of performance, the Nissan Z is equipped with the same 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine found in Infiniti’s Red Sport 400 models. This means you get 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. You have the choice between a six-speed manual gearbox and a nine-speed automatic, catering to different preferences.
In terms of acceleration, the Nissan Z is undeniably quick. It can reach 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, and the starting price is above $42,310.
So, what’s the downside? Well, nothing really. It’s a fantastic little car that offers speed and enjoyment. However, when it comes to performance, comfort, and even prestige, there are potentially better options available. Nissan’s Z cars have always been about fun, but they haven’t gained the same level of respect as, let’s say, a Supra.
That’s where the 2024 Ford Mustang GT comes into the picture. It is priced similarly to the Nissan Z (around $42,710) and comes with a Gen IV 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, delivering 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. While it may not be as agile as the Nissan Z, it is an overall superior product. Additionally, on paper, it achieves a quicker 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds.
Recommendation: Ford Mustang GT
Lexus RC 350Photo: WheelsAge
The Lexus RC is a compact executive two-door coupe that is often considered a direct competitor to the BMW 4 Series Coupe and the Audi A5 Coupe. It is a premium offering, although it is starting to show its age. Production began in 2014, and the last facelift occurred in 2018.
In the United States, sales have been declining, and it’s not surprising considering the RC’s outdated nature. Furthermore, it doesn’t offer enough speed to justify the $48,850 price tag for the RC 350 variant, which is the only conventional specification worth considering for driving enthusiasts.
The 2024 BMW M240i xDrive Coupe is a sports car with a naturally aspirated V6 engine that delivers 311 horsepower. It can reach 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, which is considered slow for a V6-powered coupe in today’s standards. If you’re looking for something more unique, the RC F with a V8 and 472 horsepower is an option, but it comes at a higher cost. However, the RC 350 is a great alternative that offers similar performance at a lower price point.
In comparison, the 2024 BMW M240i xDrive Coupe is a much better sports car. It may be smaller and less comfortable than the RC 350, but it offers a turbocharged inline-six unit that produces 382 horsepower. This results in a faster acceleration time of 4.1 seconds for the 0-60 mph sprint, thanks to its all-wheel drive system. The M240i is a smart choice for those looking for a sporty car in 2024.
If you decide to go for the BMW M240i xDrive Coupe, make sure to choose the xDrive variant for quicker acceleration. The rear-wheel drive option won’t perform as well off the line. Consider buying the BMW M240i xDrive Coupe instead of the RC 350.
Another option to consider is the BMW Z4 M40i. It shares the same inline-six turbo unit with 382 horsepower as the M240i. However, the Z4 M40i is priced at $66,300, making it more expensive than the M240i xDrive Coupe. When considering alternatives at that price range, BMW enthusiasts might encounter some difficulties.
The third-generation Z4 is a remarkable car with a great overall experience. It boasts a sleek design from all angles and features a fast-operating roof that can be raised or lowered in just 10 seconds. It also offers more trunk space compared to its predecessor and provides an enjoyable driving experience. While the design could have been more inspired by the Z4 Concept, there is still potential for BMW to introduce an all-electric Z4 in the future.
However, when comparing to the 2024 Porsche 718 Boxster priced at $70,400, I cannot recommend the Z4 M40i over its German rival. Despite the BMW being slightly faster, the Porsche offers a compelling alternative at a similar price point.
The entry-level 718 Boxster is equipped with a modest 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, generating a mere 300 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. However, being a Porsche, the drivetrain is meticulously balanced for optimal performance. While it may not match the flagship Z4 in terms of speed, it can still reach 60 mph in a maximum of 4.9 seconds.
Opting for the PDK variant with the Sport Chrono Package can lower that time to 4.5 seconds for the 0-60 sprint. Nevertheless, this comparison is not solely focused on acceleration, but rather on the overall driving experience. When pushed to its limits, the 718 Boxster outshines any BMW Z4 in terms of stability, thanks to its mid-engine weight distribution. In contrast, the BMW may lack composure in comparison.
Instead of the BMW Z4, I recommend considering the Porsche 718 Boxster. Additionally, the Porsche 718 Cayman is another noteworthy option. Having driven various versions of the 718 Cayman, including the pre-718 models, I can confidently say that these cars are exceptional sports cars. Even the entry-level models are deserving of the Porsche name. However, at a price of nearly $70k, the entry-level Cayman may face stiff competition from an unexpected rival.
While the C8 Corvette is not typically considered a direct competitor to the Porsche 718, I believe it is worth comparing them due to their similar price points and classification as sports cars. The Corvette straddles the line between a sports car and a supercar. For $68,300, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 194 mph. The entry-level 718 cannot come close to achieving these impressive figures.
The C8 Stingray achieves such remarkable performance with its naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine, which produces 490 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. It also comes standard with an 8-speed dual clutch automatic transmission, complete with paddle shifters. Opting for the Z51 package provides a performance exhaust system that boosts output by an additional 5 horsepower and 5 lb-ft of torque.
As previously mentioned, the C8 Corvette Stingray was featured in our recent article on the 8 Best-Value-for-Money Supercars, where it ranked sixth out of eight, surpassing the Nissan GT-R and Maserati MC20. General Motors has truly hit a home run with the C8, and the upcoming Z06 model is expected to take performance to a whole new level. Additionally, the anticipation for the ZR1, which is rumored to have anywhere from 800 to 900 horsepower, is palpable. It is bound to be an absolute beast.
Instead of the Porsche 718, I recommend considering the Corvette Stingray.
According to the Source autoevolution.com