What exactly constitutes a sports car, especially when we talk about High Performance Sports Cars? The classic definition points to a low-slung vehicle, typically designed for two occupants, boasting considerable power and agile handling, often wrapped in a visually striking package. However, when we delve deeper into the realm of iconic sports cars, we find that many defy one or more of these conventional attributes. Take, for instance, the Lamborghini Countach, a car celebrated for its dramatic design but not necessarily its refined driving dynamics. Or consider the Mazda Miata, a beloved roadster admired for its balance and fun factor, rather than outright power. Even the Mercedes 500E, with its discreet four-door sedan body, or the flamboyant Plymouth Superbird, a muscle car pushing the boundaries of extravagance, challenge our preconceived notions.
Lamborghini Countach side view
The landscape becomes even more nuanced when considering hypercars and grand tourers. While hypercars often exceed the sports car category in sheer performance and price, many supercars comfortably fit within the high-performance sports car spectrum. Historically, 300 horsepower was a significant benchmark, a figure that once defined serious performance. Grand tourers, while capable and luxurious, generally prioritize comfort and long-distance cruising over the pure agility of a sports car. Yet, roadsters and coupes, depending on their design and intent, can certainly embody the spirit of a sports car. Sometimes, raw aesthetic appeal alone elevates a car to sports car status, as exemplified by the breathtaking Bizzarrini GT Strada 5300 or the sensuous Lamborghini Miura. Other vehicles, like the agile Alpine A110, earned their sports car credentials through racing pedigree and track prowess. Scarcity plays a minimal role in this definition, as demonstrated by both the ultra-rare Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic and the relatively accessible Datsun 240Z gracing lists of great sports cars. Conversely, models like the Chevrolet Corvette and Porsche 911 consistently tick almost every box: high sales volumes, significant cultural impact, exhilarating performance, and timeless styling that continues to captivate generations.
Mazda MX-5 RF in motion on a coastal road
To further refine the selection of exceptional high performance sports cars, a panel of twelve automotive experts was convened. Tasked with choosing their top 50 from an extensive list of over 150 vehicles, ranging from Abarth to Zonda, their collective votes shaped a definitive ranking. Interestingly, some highly desirable cars, including the Ford GT, Saleen S7, and McLaren 600LT, received no votes, highlighting the subjective nature of automotive greatness. Other contenders, such as the AMC AMX, the first-generation Chevrolet Camaro, and the De Tomaso Pantera, garnered passionate support but ultimately fell short of the top 50. Debates were lively, particularly surrounding Shelby models, yet the experts achieved unanimous agreement on the top five selections. The final rankings were then meticulously refined by Robb Report editors to curate the list presented.
Porsche 911 classic model front view
While the origins of sports cars, dating back over a century, might lie in straightforward exercises of engineering and design aimed at motorsport success, they have always been deeply intertwined with emotion. Any evaluation of a high performance sports car inherently reflects this interplay between rational assessment and emotional connection. The ongoing discussion about which sports cars reign supreme is likely to persist as long as the very definition of a sports car continues to evolve and inspire passionate debate. — Erik Shilling
