For those of us who believe that driving is more than just getting from point A to point B, the world of Small Sports Cars offers an exhilarating escape from the mundane. In a market increasingly dominated by crossovers and SUVs, these nimble and engaging machines remind us of the pure joy of driving. It’s a corner of the automotive industry that prioritizes driver connection and fun above all else, proving that size isn’t everything, especially when it comes to sports cars.
While the term “sports car” might conjure images of large, powerful, and often expensive vehicles, the “small” descriptor brings a unique and arguably more compelling dimension to the category. Smaller size typically translates to less weight, which is the golden rule for sporty handling. Forget about bulk and excess; small sports cars are about agility, responsiveness, and a direct connection to the road. These aren’t just cars to admire; they are cars built to be driven, enjoyed, and truly experienced. We’ve compiled a list of ten of the best small sports cars that are not only thrilling but also within reach for driving enthusiasts who prefer real-world excitement over unattainable dreams.
2020 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider
The 2020 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is an experience, raw and unfiltered. It’s not trying to be luxurious or comfortable; it’s a pure sports car focused on driving sensation. Yes, the unassisted steering requires effort at parking speeds, the transmission might feel a bit abrupt, and sound insulation is practically nonexistent. But these perceived “flaws” are precisely what contribute to its charm. The 4C Spider immerses you in the driving process in a way few modern cars can.
You hear the mechanical symphony of the mid-mounted engine right behind you. The steering is so communicative, it feels like a direct extension of your senses, telegraphing every nuance of the road surface. The lightweight carbon fiber tub chassis contributes to exceptional balance and agility, making it dance through corners. Every input and reaction from the suspension is felt directly, connecting you intimately with the car’s behavior. And let’s not forget the styling – unmistakably Alfa Romeo, it’s a head-turner wherever it goes. Priced around $67,150, the 4C Spider delivers 237 horsepower of pure, unadulterated sports car thrill in a stunning two-seat convertible package.
2020 Audi TT RS
For those who appreciate performance but prefer a blend of modern luxury and technology with their speed, the 2020 Audi TT RS strikes a perfect balance. It’s a car that feels thoroughly contemporary while still delivering exhilarating sports car thrills. The TT RS is where cutting-edge technology meets high performance in a stylish and sophisticated package.
With rumors suggesting this might be the final year for the current TT generation, now is the time to experience the unique character of its turbocharged five-cylinder engine. Producing a potent 394 horsepower, this engine delivers a distinctive and addictive thrum, propelling the TT RS with serious pace. Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures maximum grip and stability in all conditions, making it both incredibly fast and reassuringly planted. Inside, the cabin is a showcase of Audi’s design and technology prowess, featuring premium leather and aluminum accents, and the innovative Virtual Cockpit driver information display. Priced just under $70,000 for the coupe-only RS version, the Audi TT RS is a top-tier small sports car that seamlessly blends speed, luxury, and advanced technology.
2020 BMW M2 Competition
While the latest BMW Z4 embodies the classic roadster format, the 2020 BMW M2 Competition takes the crown for outright sportiness within BMW’s compact offerings. The M2 Competition is a product of BMW’s famed M division, the skunkworks responsible for injecting adrenaline into their vehicles. It’s a car engineered for driving purists who prioritize performance and engagement above all else.
BMW’s M division magic is evident in every aspect of the M2 Competition. The engine is significantly enhanced, the suspension is finely tuned for sharp handling, and the brakes are upgraded for serious stopping power. Based on the 2 Series subcompact coupe, the rear-wheel-drive M2 Competition is the smallest member of the M family, starting around $59,000. Its compact dimensions and relatively low weight mean the 405-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder engine has less mass to move, resulting in blistering acceleration and exceptional responsiveness. The M2 Competition is all about driver involvement, offering razor-sharp steering and a playful chassis that begs to be pushed on twisty roads.
2020 Chevrolet Corvette C8
While “small” might not be the first word that comes to mind when you see the new Chevrolet Corvette C8, it undeniably qualifies as a compact two-seater sports car that delivers supercar performance. The C8 marks a revolutionary shift for the Corvette, embracing a mid-engine layout for the first time in its history. Despite its new direction, it remains true to its performance roots, delivering astonishing acceleration and handling at a surprisingly accessible price point.
The headline figure for the new Corvette (starting around $57,000) is its 0-60 mph sprint time of just 2.8 seconds. This blistering pace is a full 1.1 seconds quicker than the previous generation, a testament to the benefits of the mid-engine configuration. Positioning the engine closer to the rear axle improves weight distribution and traction, contributing significantly to the car’s enhanced performance. It retains the iconic small-block V8 engine, now producing a formidable 495 horsepower. The Corvette C8 redefines what’s possible for a sports car at this price, offering near-supercar levels of performance in a relatively compact and attainable package.
2020 Jaguar F-Type
With a revised model on the horizon, the 2020 Jaguar F-Type stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic sports car design and driving dynamics. The original F-Type is a modern icon, celebrated for its stunning aesthetics, engaging driving experience, and the distinctive Jaguar character. It’s a car that stirs the soul and delivers a rewarding driving experience, whether cruising down the boulevard or carving through canyon roads.
Available in both coupe and convertible forms, the 2020 F-Type range starts at $62,625, placing it in competition with rivals like the Porsche 718 Boxster. However, in higher trims, it can even challenge the legendary Porsche 911. The entry-level turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 296 horsepower, offering a good balance of performance and efficiency. However, to truly unlock the Jaguar sports car experience, the supercharged V6 engine, with 340 horsepower and above, is the way to go, delivering the signature Jaguar blend of refined power and exhilarating performance. The F-Type is a true sports car with a beautifully crafted chassis and sleek, timeless design.
2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata
When discussing small sports cars, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is always at the forefront. In fact, the Miata isn’t just one of the best small sports cars; it’s arguably one of the best cars ever made, period. For anyone who appreciates the simple joy of driving, owning an MX-5 Miata at some point is practically a rite of passage. It embodies the essence of a sports car: lightweight, nimble, and incredibly fun to drive without needing excessive power or a stratospheric price tag.
The MX-5 Miata provides accessible thrills (181 horsepower is plenty in its lightweight frame) and affordability (starting around $27,000), making it an ideal weekend toy that’s also enjoyable for daily driving. Its build quality is renowned, and the current generation is arguably the best yet, benefiting from decades of continuous refinement and a passionate engineering team who are constantly seeking improvements. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a testament to the idea that driving pleasure doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive; it just needs to be well-engineered and focused on the driver.
2020 Mini Hardtop 2-Door John Cooper Works
The John Cooper Works (JCW) variant of the Mini Hardtop 2-Door represents the pinnacle of performance for this iconic front-wheel-drive hatchback. While not a traditional rear-wheel-drive sports car, the Mini JCW delivers a unique and intensely fun driving experience in a compact and stylish package. It’s a car that prioritizes agility and driver engagement, even if it means sacrificing some ride comfort.
The JCW isn’t for those seeking plush comfort; its ride is decidedly firm, a necessary trade-off for its exceptional handling prowess. Starting around $34,250, it’s also not the cheapest option in its segment. However, for driving enthusiasts who prioritize pure driving fun above all else, the Mini JCW delivers in spades. Its 228 horsepower is more than enough to exploit its nimble chassis and responsive nature. While a convertible version is available, the true enthusiast will likely prefer the lighter and more rigid tin-top model. Upgraded Brembo brakes and a host of personalization options further enhance the JCW experience. The Mini Hardtop 2-Door John Cooper Works is a pocket rocket that delivers big thrills in a small, distinctive package.
2020 Porsche 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman
Widely regarded as among the very best in the small sports car category, the Porsche 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster represent Porsche’s entry-level sports car offerings. The Cayman (coupe) and Boxster (convertible) share a common platform and DNA, delivering the quintessential Porsche driving experience in a more compact and accessible form. They are benchmarks for handling, balance, and driver engagement in the sports car world.
Both the Cayman (starting around $58,000) and Boxster (around $60,000) boast a mid-mounted engine, contributing to their exceptional balance and handling. The steering is sublime, offering precise feedback and control, and the chassis is incredibly responsive and communicative. Engine options range from 300 horsepower to 365 horsepower, with even the base engine providing ample performance. For the 2020 model year, the new T trim level adds 20-inch alloy wheels and a sportier suspension setup while removing some interior features to save weight, appealing to purists. Anything from Porsche is inherently interesting, and the 718 Boxster and Cayman are particularly appealing for their (relative) attainability and exceptional driving dynamics.
2020 Subaru WRX STI
Born from Subaru’s rally racing heritage, the WRX STI is a compact sedan that has gained a cult following among driving enthusiasts. The Subaru WRX STI is not your typical sports car; it’s a rally-bred machine adapted for the road, offering a unique blend of performance, all-weather capability, and practicality. It’s a car that can handle demanding driving conditions while delivering thrilling performance on both pavement and gravel.
Standard all-wheel drive and a turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four engine producing 310 horsepower are at the heart of the WRX STI’s appeal. Combined with its aggressive styling, including a prominent rear wing and aerodynamic enhancements, the STI looks and performs the part of a serious performance machine. It’s incredibly swift and grippy, capable of tackling twisty roads with confidence and outperforming many more expensive and powerful cars. Starting at $37,895, the WRX STI is surprisingly affordable for the level of performance it offers. While the ride is firm and the cabin can be noisy, these are compromises many are willing to make for its unique capabilities and driving character. The WRX STI offers a dose of practicality alongside its performance, making it a versatile choice for driving enthusiasts.
2020 Toyota 86
The Toyota 86 proves that you don’t need massive horsepower to have immense driving fun. With 205 horsepower sent to the rear wheels, the Toyota 86 is all about balance, agility, and driver engagement. It’s a car that rewards skillful driving and prioritizes cornering prowess over outright straight-line speed. The 86 is a fantastic entry point into the world of rear-wheel-drive sports cars, offering an engaging and rewarding driving experience at an accessible price.
The Toyota 86 is lightweight, well-balanced, and an absolute joy to toss around corners. While it might not win drag races, it excels in providing a pure and connected driving experience. It’s also surprisingly practical for a sports car and priced affordably, starting at $27,940. For those new to rear-wheel-drive cars and manual transmissions, the 86 is an excellent choice to learn and hone their driving skills. It offers a sensation-filled driving experience that’s a world away from the mundane, making it a truly special and accessible small sports car.
