The 1980s was a vibrant decade for many reasons, and the automotive world was no exception. Amidst the synthesizer-heavy music and bold fashion statements, some truly iconic sports cars emerged, blending performance with distinctive designs that still captivate enthusiasts today. Defining a “sports car” can be tricky – is it a muscle car, a supercar, or something else entirely? For our journey back to the eighties, we’re focusing on vehicles engineered for spirited driving on winding roads, prioritizing agility and driver engagement over sheer straight-line power. Think nimble handling and responsive engines, rather than overpowered behemoths or ultra-exclusive supercars. These are the sports cars for those who crave the open road and the thrill of the drive itself.
Classic muscle cars hold a special place in automotive history, but finding them in pristine, original condition is increasingly rare and expensive. Therefore, our list of the best sports cars from the 1980s draws upon a mix of firsthand experiences from those who lived the era, insights gleaned from dedicated car show attendees, and the wealth of knowledge shared within online communities of passionate owners. Get ready to explore ten of the most exhilarating sports cars that the 80s had to offer, machines that remain exciting to drive today and offer fantastic platforms for restoration and modification projects.
1. 1985 Honda CRX
A parked 1985 Honda CRXsi
The Honda CRX, short for “Civic Renaissance Experimental,” is a testament to Japanese engineering ingenuity in a compact, front-wheel-drive package. Produced from 1983 to 1991, this sporty hatchback was celebrated for its exceptional handling and peppy acceleration. It paved the way for future Honda sports coupes and remains a sought-after classic for its fun-to-drive nature and fuel efficiency.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder |
| Horsepower | 91 hp @ 5,500 RPM |
| Torque | 93 lb-ft @ 4,500 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 43 MPG |
What makes the 1985 Honda CRX particularly appealing is its accessibility. It offered a genuine sports car experience without breaking the bank. The CRX Si variant, with its fuel-injected 1.5-liter engine producing 91 horsepower, was a standout model. While 91 hp might not sound like much, consider the CRX’s featherlight weight of just 1,819 pounds. This power-to-weight ratio translated to a 0-60 mph time of just over nine seconds, a respectable figure for its class. Coupled with its sport-tuned suspension, the CRX delivered an incredibly engaging and agile driving experience, especially on twisty roads.
2. 1989 Toyota Supra MK III
The Toyota Supra, now known as the GR Supra in its modern iteration, continues to carry the torch as a sleek, performance-oriented sports car, now crafted under the Gazoo Racing (GR) banner. The 1989 Supra marked the third generation of this iconic model, a pivotal moment where the Supra fully separated from its Celica roots to establish itself as a distinct and formidable sports car lineage.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | Turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 235 hp @ 5,600 RPM |
| Torque | 254 lb-ft @ 3,200 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 18 MPG |
The 1989 Toyota Supra offered a compelling performance upgrade with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. While the base model already featured a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter six, the turbo version significantly boosted output from 200 to 235 horsepower, and torque surged from 196 to a robust 254 pound-feet. This power bump allowed the ’89 Supra Turbo to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.5 seconds, putting it in close contention with the V-8 powered Chevrolet Corvette of the same era. The Supra MK III showcased Toyota’s commitment to performance and solidified its place among the top Japanese sports cars of the decade.
3. 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo
A parked 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo
The Porsche 911 stands as a paragon of sports car excellence and automotive heritage. This rear-engined, German-engineered icon has been in continuous production since 1964, evolving and refining its formula over decades. Throughout its history, the 911 has garnered acclaim as one of the most successful competition cars ever created, dominating prestigious endurance races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and securing the World Championship for Makes from 1976 to 1979.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.3-liter six-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 300 hp @ 5,500 RPM |
| Torque | 253 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 16 MPG |
The 1980s saw subtle but significant refinements to the Porsche 911 formula. Initially, Porsche executives debated the future direction of the 911, particularly its appeal in the crucial North American market. However, the Porsche 911 Turbo proved to be a resounding success in the US and globally, capturing the hearts of enthusiasts. Under the rear engine lid resided the familiar 3.3-liter flat-six, but with the addition of a turbocharger, power soared to 300 horsepower. This potent combination propelled the 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.6 seconds, establishing it as a performance benchmark of the decade and a highly desirable classic today.
4. 1989 BMW Z1
A parked 1989 BMW Z1
The BMW Z1 is an automotive anomaly, celebrated for its unconventional design and forward-thinking engineering. Its most distinctive feature is undoubtedly its doors, which electrically retract downwards, disappearing into the door sills. Beyond the striking doors, the 1989 BMW Z1 also pioneered the use of plastic body panels and incorporated a multi-link rear suspension system, a relatively advanced feature for the time. Originally conceived as a concept car, the Z1 defied expectations by entering limited production, becoming an instant collector’s item and a symbol of BMW’s innovative spirit.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5-liter inline six-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 168 hp @ 5,800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 lb-ft @ 4,300 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed Getrag manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 27 MPG |
If the 1989 BMW Z1 isn’t immediately familiar, it’s likely due to its limited production run and concept car origins. However, for those in the know, the Z1 represents a high point in 80s performance and automotive creativity. It shared its 2.5-liter inline-six engine with other BMW models of the era, producing a healthy 168 horsepower. Adding to its unique appeal, the Z1 featured an integrated rear diffuser, cleverly utilizing the muffler and undercarriage to enhance aerodynamics. Its rarity and innovative features make the BMW Z1 a standout and highly prized 80s sports car.
5. 1985 Mazda RX-7
A parked 1985 Mazda RX-7
Mazda’s commitment to the rotary engine, though ultimately not as widespread as initially envisioned, yielded some truly unique and engaging sports cars, most notably the RX-7. Produced across three generations before its discontinuation in 2002, the RX-7 became synonymous with Mazda’s innovative spirit and dedication to driver enjoyment. While later models (post-1995) are restricted in the US due to left-hand drive configuration in certain markets, the earlier RX-7s remain accessible and highly sought after by enthusiasts.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.1-liter Wankel Rotary |
| Horsepower | 100 hp @ 6,000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual, 4-speed auto |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 17 MPG |
No retrospective look at 80s Sports Cars would be complete without acknowledging the Mazda RX-7 and its distinctive rotary engine. While perhaps unconventional to some, the RX-7’s Wankel rotary engine delivered a unique driving experience, characterized by smooth power delivery and a high-revving nature. The 1985 RX-7’s rotary engine produced 100 horsepower at 6,000 RPM, enabling a 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 9 seconds. However, straight-line speed wasn’t the RX-7’s primary focus; it excelled in cornering and offered a truly engaging and thrilling driving experience for those who appreciated its unique character.
6. 1985 Toyota MR2
A parked 1985 Toyota MR2
The 1985 Toyota MR2, another Japanese gem, brought the mid-engine sports car layout to a more accessible price point, proving that exhilarating driving dynamics didn’t have to be exclusive to high-end marques. The “Mid-engine, Run-about, 2-seater” (MR2) was marketed globally from 1984 to 2007, becoming the first Japanese mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe to reach the market. Its combination of nimble handling, affordability, and distinctive styling made it an instant hit and a lasting classic.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 112 hp @ 6,600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 lb-ft @ 5,000 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 26 MPG |
The 1985 Toyota MR2 garnered significant accolades, including being named Motor Trend Import Car of the Year and earning a spot on Car and Driver’s inaugural Top Ten list. Its mid-engine layout, a feature typically reserved for more exotic sports cars, contributed to its exceptional balance and handling. Powered by a responsive 16-valve four-cylinder engine producing 112 horsepower, paired with a slick five-speed manual gearbox, the MR2 offered a genuinely sporty and engaging driving experience. With a top speed around 120 mph, the MR2 was perfectly suited for carving through winding roads and delivering pure driving pleasure.
7. 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R
A parked 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R
The Nissan Skyline nameplate, after a hiatus of over a decade since 1973, roared back onto the scene in 1989 with a vengeance, specifically engineered to dominate racetracks. And dominate it did. The 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R’s racing prowess was so overwhelming that it earned the legendary nickname “Godzilla,” a moniker that has stuck with the GT-R lineage to this day, symbolizing its monstrous performance capabilities.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged |
| Horsepower | 276 hp @ 6,800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft @ 4,400 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 16 MPG |
While the base-level 1989 Nissan Skyline models might not immediately scream “sports car,” the GT-R variant was a different beast altogether. Lesser Skylines were available with smaller engines, including a diesel option, but the GT-R and GTS-R were purpose-built for performance and racing homologation. Produced in limited numbers to meet racing regulations, the 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R boasted a potent 2.6-liter twin-turbocharged engine and an advanced all-wheel-drive system. This combination delivered incredible grip and acceleration, making it a formidable force on both the track and the street and cementing its legendary status in automotive history.
8. 1984 Chevrolet Corvette
Black Chevrolet Corvette C4
The Chevrolet Corvette has been a cornerstone of the North American automotive landscape since its debut in 1953. By 1984, the fourth generation, the Corvette C4, was ushering in a new era for this iconic sports car. In the 80s, the ideal sports car embodied both luxury and performance, and the Corvette aimed to deliver on both fronts, solidifying its position as America’s sports car.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.7-liter eight-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 205 hp @ 4,300 RPM |
| Torque | 290 lb-ft @ 2,800 RPM |
| Transmission | Doug Nash 4+3, 4-speed auto, 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 15 MPG |
Little needs to be said about the Chevrolet Corvette’s enduring legacy. Even in the 1980s, and continuing to the present day, the Corvette reigns supreme as the “American Sports Car.” This moniker has been associated with the Corvette for decades, and for good reason. While undeniably a sports car, the Corvette also blurred the lines with muscle car territory, capable of holding its own in quarter-mile sprints against many straight-line focused machines. The 1984 Corvette C4 featured the venerable 350 cubic inch V8 engine, producing 205 horsepower and a substantial 290 pound-feet of torque, offering a blend of performance and American muscle car heritage.
9. 1982 Datsun 280 ZX
A parked 1982 Datsun 280 ZX
The 1982 Datsun 280 ZX was conceived as a true sports car, but with a deliberate emphasis on enhanced comfort and refinement. As the Nissan brand began to supplant the Datsun name in the 80s, the 280Z lineage evolved, prioritizing a more comfortable and luxurious sports car experience. This focus on comfort didn’t compromise its sporty character, making it a well-rounded and enjoyable machine.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.8-liter inline-six |
| Horsepower | 180 hp @ 5,600 RPM |
| Torque | 202 lb-ft @ 2,200 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 22 MPG |
Often affectionately nicknamed “the little Corvette,” the Datsun/Nissan 280 ZX was a nimble and engaging sports car, weighing in at just under 3,000 pounds. Beneath its long, sloping hood resided a 2.8-liter inline-six engine, producing around 145 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque in naturally aspirated form. Opting for the turbocharged version bumped those figures to a more potent 180 horsepower and 202 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a standard 5-speed manual transmission (a 3-speed automatic was optional), the 280 ZX offered ample performance for spirited driving and remains a stylish and enjoyable classic from the 80s.
10. 1984 Nissan Pulsar NX
The Nissan Pulsar, in its base form, might appear unassuming, but the Nissan Pulsar NX variant transformed it into a distinctive sports car, complete with T-tops. Introduced to compete with rivals like the Mazda Miata MX-5 and Toyota MR2, the Pulsar NX garnered recognition as one of the best-handling front-wheel-drive sports cars of its era, offering an engaging driving experience in a unique package.
Specs and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 113 hp @ 5,600 RPM |
| Torque | 119 lb-ft @ 3,600 RPM |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy | 28 MPG |
Nissan’s 80s television commercials for the Pulsar NX playfully exaggerated its performance, suggesting it possessed such power that it could blow hats off onlookers. While the 1984 Pulsar NX, with its 1.6-liter inline-four engine producing 113 horsepower, might not have delivered hat-scattering force, it did offer respectable performance. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in around 8.5 seconds, the Pulsar NX provided a fun and agile driving experience, particularly for a front-wheel-drive car, and its distinctive styling with T-tops made it a memorable and somewhat quirky sports car of the 1980s.
