What truly defines a sports car? The classic definition points to a low-slung vehicle, typically designed for two occupants, boasting considerable power and agile handling, often wrapped in a beautiful aesthetic. However, when exploring the realm of the greatest sports cars, we find numerous examples that cleverly sidestep or outright ignore parts of this traditional mold. Take the iconic Lamborghini Countach, for instance, a design marvel that arguably prioritizes visual drama over ultimate driving dynamics. Or consider the beloved Mazda Miata, a testament to lightweight fun, not raw horsepower. Even the practical Mercedes 500E, with its four doors, enters the conversation, challenging preconceived notions. And then there’s the Plymouth Superbird, a muscle car turned up to eleven, pushing the boundaries of conventional styling.
Beyond the Traditional Definition of a Sports Car
The world of sports cars is far more nuanced than simple labels. While hypercars often operate in a realm beyond the typical sports car, many supercars comfortably fit the bill, reminding us that once upon a time, 300 horsepower was a significant benchmark. Grand tourers, designed for comfortable long-distance driving, generally diverge from the sports car ethos, yet roadsters and coupes, depending on their inherent sportiness, can absolutely embody it. Sometimes, sheer automotive beauty elevates a car to sports car status almost single-handedly. Consider the breathtaking lines of the Bizzarrini GT Strada 5300 or the timeless elegance of the Lamborghini Miura.
Track Prowess and Sports Car Credibility
For other vehicles, their sports car credentials are forged in the crucible of motorsport. The Alpine A110, for example, cemented its place in sports car history through its racing success and agile performance on the track. Rarity, surprisingly, plays a less significant role in defining a sports car’s greatness. Both the ultra-rare Bugatti Type 57 SC Atlantic and the relatively accessible Datsun 240Z are rightfully celebrated as sports cars.
Iconic Examples: Corvette and Porsche 911
Certain cars, like the Chevy Corvette and Porsche 911, seem to effortlessly embody nearly every hallmark of a great sports car. They boast impressive sales figures, exert enormous cultural influence, deliver high performance, and possess undeniable styling that has stood the test of time, becoming true automotive icons.
Expert Perspectives on the Greatest
To delve deeper into the subjective nature of “greatness,” a panel of twelve automotive experts was convened. Tasked with selecting their top 50 sports cars from an extensive list of over 150 models, ranging from Abarth to Zonda, their votes revealed fascinating insights. Some highly desirable cars, including the Ford GT, Saleen S7, and McLaren 600LT, surprisingly received no votes. Others, such as the AMC AMX, first-generation Chevy Camaro, and De Tomaso Pantera, garnered passionate support but ultimately fell short of the top 50. Debates were lively, particularly regarding Shelby vehicles, yet the experts achieved unanimous agreement on the top five selections. The final rankings were then refined by Robb Report editors, culminating in a definitive list.
The Enduring Allure of Sports Cars
Sports cars, originating over a century ago as expressions of design ingenuity, engineering prowess, and motorsport ambition, have always been deeply intertwined with emotion. Any assessment of their greatness inevitably reflects this interplay between objective criteria and subjective passion. The ongoing discussion about which sports cars reign supreme is likely to persist as long as these captivating machines continue to evolve and redefine themselves, capturing our imaginations and stirring our souls. — Erik Shilling
