The initial thrill of a new sports car, with its promise of adrenaline and stunning looks, is a powerful lure for enthusiasts. We dream of open roads and the pure joy of driving a machine built for pleasure. However, this exciting anticipation can sometimes clash with the realities of everyday ownership, leaving some buyers feeling disillusioned.
But what happens when that initial excitement, that intoxicating honeymoon period, begins to fade? The reality, as many have discovered, is that some sports cars fall dramatically short of their brochure’s bold claims. Whether it’s the relentless grind of reliability issues, maintenance costs that rival a significant mortgage payment, or simply a driving experience that doesn’t quite match the visual drama, certain high-performance vehicles possess a peculiar knack for turning dreams into deeply held regrets. It’s a sobering realization when the car you once coveted becomes the one you’d rather “hide in the garage.”
We recognize that the automotive enthusiast community harbors fierce loyalty, and indeed, many will champion their chosen steeds regardless of their quirks. Yet, we’ve also observed the growing chorus of complaints and frustrations from those who, after a year or so of ownership, expected a more refined, more dependable, or simply more practical experience. Drawing upon a wealth of owner feedback and expert insights, this in-depth article will unmask twelve such sports cars—machines that, despite their initial appeal, left their drivers with a profound sense of buyer’s remorse, forcing them to reconsider their choices.
1. **Alfa Romeo 4C**The Alfa Romeo 4C captivated purists with its featherweight carbon fiber tub and sub-2,400-pound curb weight, promising an unfiltered, visceral driving experience. Its exotic looks and minimalist design were a testament to performance above all else, appealing deeply to those who craved automotive purity and a direct connection between driver and road.
However, this purist’s dream quickly proved harsh for daily driving. The cabin was notoriously cramped, and the ride quality punishing, making even short trips exhausting. The quirky dual-clutch transmission jerked at low speeds, and the absence of power steering at parking lot speeds turned simple maneuvers into a physical workout, quickly wearing thin the initial charm.
Beyond the challenging driving dynamics, owners also faced significant financial burdens. The minimalist approach meant minimal comfort features but maximum maintenance costs. A surprisingly steep maintenance schedule, coupled with the inherent cost of exotic components, quickly accumulated into significant annual expenses, transforming the dream into a costly and often uncomfortable ownership proposition.
Car Model Information: 2022 Toyota Camry SE
Name: Alfa Romeo 4C,Alfa Romeo 4C Spider
Manufacturer: FCA Italy
Production: [object Object]
Assembly: Modena
Class: Sports car
Layout: Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
BodyStyle: coupé
Engine: Fiat Pratola Serra modular engines,Turbocharger,Straight-four engine
Transmission: Dual clutch transmission,FPT C635 DDCT transmission
Wheelbase: 2380 mm
Abbr: on Coupé
Length: 3989 mm
Width: 2090 mm
Height: 1183 mm
Weight: 940 kg
Related: Abarth Classiche 1000 SP
Designer: Marco Tencone
ModelYears: 2014–2020
Categories: Alfa Romeo concept vehicles, Alfa Romeo vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from April 2022
Summary: The Alfa Romeo 4C (Type 960) is a mid-engined sports car that was produced by Italian car manufacturer Alfa Romeo. Unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, the 4C was initially only available as a coupé, with a spider body style coming a few years later in 2015. The name 4C refers to its straight-four engine.
Get more information about: Alfa Romeo 4C
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Brand: Alfa Romeo Model: 4C
Price: $23,995 Mileage: 61,076 mi.
2.The BMW i8 initially wowed the automotive world with its futuristic hybrid powertrain, dramatic scissor doors, and concept-car aesthetics. It seemed to perfectly blend eco-consciousness with thrilling performance, instantly becoming a head-turner and a symbol of forward-thinking design.
Yet, the driving experience often failed to live up to the visual drama. Its turbocharged three-cylinder engine and electric motor combined for just 369 horsepower, which felt underwhelming given the $140,000-plus price tag and sports car positioning. Owners often felt a distinct lack of explosive acceleration, diminishing the expected high-performance feel.
Disappointment also stemmed from practical limitations. The limited electric range (just 18 miles, according to Car and Driver) meant the gas engine kicked in frequently, its intrusive noise shattering the serene ambiance. Furthermore, a firm ride failed to deliver the precise handling expected from a BMW sports car, leaving many feeling that its dynamic capabilities were outshone by its spectacular styling.
Car Model Information: 2016 BMW i8
Name: BMW i8 (I12/I15)
Manufacturer: BMW
Production: April 2014 – June 2020 , (20,465 units)
Assembly: Saxony,Leipzig
Predecessor: BMW ActiveE
Successor: BMW 8 Series (G15),BMW M8
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Transverse engine,mid-engine,all-wheel-drive
Motor: 131 hp
Order: EPA
Abbr: on
Engine: turbocharged,I3 engine
Battery: kWh,lithium-ion battery
Transmission: Aisin,AWTF-80 SC
Drivetrain: Plug-in hybrid
Wheelbase: Convert
Length: Convert
Width: Convert
Height: Convert
Weight: Convert
Range: 500 km
ElectricRange: 37 km
Related: BMW i3
Designer: Vision EfficientDynamics
Doors: Butterfly doors
Powerout: 369 hp
ModelYears: 2014–2020
Categories: All articles containing potentially dated statements, All articles that are excessively detailed, All articles with style issues, Articles containing potentially dated statements from October 2016, Articles containing potentially dated statements from September 2016
Summary: The BMW i8 is a plug-in hybrid sports car developed by BMW. The i8 was part of BMW’s electrified fleet and was marketed under the BMW i sub-brand. The production version of the BMW i8 was unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show and was released in Germany in June 2014. Deliveries to retail customers in the U.S. began in August 2014. A roadster variant was launched in May 2018. Production ended in June 2020.
The 2015 BMW i8 accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds and had an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The 2015 model year i8 had a 7.1-kWh lithium-ion battery pack that delivered an all-electric range of 37 km (23 mi) under the New European Driving Cycle. Under the U.S. EPA cycle, the range in EV mode was 24 km (15 mi). The battery capacity of both the BMW i8 Roadster and the i8 Coupe was increased to 11.6 kWh in 2018, allowing the NEDC electric range to rise to 55 km (34 mi) for the coupé and 53 km (33 mi) for the roadster.
The BMW i8 coupé had a fuel efficiency of 2.1 L/100 km (134.5 mpg‑imp; 112.0 mpg‑US) under the NEDC test with carbon emissions of 49 g/km. The EPA rated the i8 combined fuel economy at 76 MPGe (2.1 L gasoline-equivalent/100 km; 91 mpg-imp gasoline-equivalent) and 29 miles per gallon (6.7L/100 km) when running in pure gasoline mode.
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Brand: BMW Model: i8
Price: $49,999 Mileage: 57,285 mi.
3. **Jaguar F-Type V6**The base V6 F-Type was undeniably stunning, showcasing gorgeous design lines that exuded elegance and aggression. Its evocative styling and often decent exhaust note initially captivated buyers, promising a quintessential British sports car experience and drawing admiration wherever it went.
However, early models with 340 horsepower suffered from an identity crisis, feeling underpowered compared to rivals and leaving owners wanting more spirited acceleration. This power deficit was particularly frustrating given it still incurred high maintenance costs and reliability concerns associated with British sports cars, creating a disheartening imbalance.
Adding to the disappointment were ongoing issues, such as an aging infotainment system and frequent electrical glitches that plagued owners. The stiff suspension, while suitable for occasional spirited drives, proved uncomfortable for daily commuting, undermining its potential as a practical grand tourer.
Car Model Information: 2021 Jaguar F-TYPE R-Dynamic AWD Automatic
Name: Jaguar F-Type (X152)
Caption: Jaguar F-Type R-Dynamic coupé
Manufacturer: Jaguar Land Rover
ModelCode: X152
Aka: Lister LFT
Production: 2013–2024
ModelYears: 2014–2024
Assembly: Birmingham,England
Designer: Ian Callum,César Pieri (Project 7)
Class: Sport car
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Platform: Jaguar Land Rover car platforms#D6a
Related: Jaguar C-X16
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: ubl
Powerout: ubl
Abbr: on
Transmission: ubl
Wheelbase: Convert
Length: 4470 mm
Width: 1923 mm
Height: 1308 mm
Weight: convert
Sp: uk
Predecessor: Jaguar XK
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with failed verification, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with failed verification from April 2025, Articles with short description
Summary: The Jaguar F-Type (X152) is a series of two-door, two-seater sports cars manufactured by British car manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover under their Jaguar Cars marque from 2013 to 2024. The car’s JLR D6a platform is based on a shortened version of the XK’s platform. It is the so-called “spiritual successor” to the E-Type.
The car was launched initially as a 2-door soft-top convertible, with a 2-door fastback coupé version launched in 2013. The F-Type underwent a facelift for the 2021 model year. It was unveiled in December 2019, featuring a significantly restyled front end and dashboard, and simplified drivetrain options. Jaguar announced that the F-Type will be discontinued after the 2024 model year. Production ended in June 2024, by which time 87,731 examples had been built.
Get more information about: Jaguar F-Type
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Brand: Jaguar Model: F-Type
Price: $54,900 Mileage: 24,765 mi.
4.By its 2020 discontinuation, the Nissan 370Z felt undeniably dated, a clear sign of its aging platform. Purchasers quickly realized they were buying a brand-new vehicle that lacked the modern advancements and contemporary feel expected in the current automotive landscape.
The interior was perhaps the most glaring indicator of its age, feeling dated the moment one sat down. Materials and technology, acceptable in 2009, were embarrassing a decade later, failing to meet contemporary standards. This lack of refinement made daily interactions with the cabin a constant source of disappointment.
While the 332-horsepower V6 still delivered decent performance, the heavy clutch, poor visibility, and stark absence of modern safety features made it feel like driving a time capsule. These combined factors meant owning a late-model 370Z was less like piloting a competitive sports car and more like wrestling with an automotive relic.
Car Model Information: 2014 Nissan 370Z Touring
Name: Nissan 370Z (Z34)
Caption: 2012–2017 Nissan Fairlady Z
Manufacturer: Nissan
Aka: Nissan Fairlady Z (Japan)
Production: December 2008 – 2021
Assembly: Kaminokawa, Tochigi
Designer: Randy Rodriguez; Diane Allen (2005)
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: fastback,coupé
Layout: Front mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Platform: Nissan FM platform
Related: Infiniti G-series (Q40/Q60)#Fourth generation (V36, 2007–2015),Infiniti G-series (Q40/Q60)#Fourth generation (V36, 2007–2015),Infiniti Q60#First generation (CV36, 2013–2015),Nissan Skyline#Twelfth generation (V36; 2006),Infiniti EX,Nissan Z (RZ34)
Engine: Nissan VQ engine#VQ37VHR,V6 engine
Transmission: Jatco,manual transmission
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Predecessor: Nissan 350Z
Successor: Nissan Z (RZ34)
Sp: us
ModelYears: 2009–2020
Categories: 2010s cars, All articles that are excessively detailed, All articles with dead external links, All articles with style issues, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Nissan 370Z (known as the Fairlady Z Z34 in Japan) is a 2-door, 2-seater sports car (S-segment in Europe) manufactured by Nissan Motor Company. It was announced on October 29, 2006, and was first shown at an event in Los Angeles ahead of the 2008 Greater LA Auto Show, before being officially unveiled at the show itself. The 370Z is the sixth generation of the Nissan Z-car line, succeeding the 350Z. The 2020 model year was the final model year for the 370Z. The line was continued by the Nissan Z (RZ34) on a modified version of the same platform.
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Brand: Nissan Model: 370Z
Price: $24,000 Mileage: 37,992 mi.
5. **Lotus Evora**The Lotus Evora promised supercar thrills at a more accessible price point, with its mid-engine layout, lightweight construction, and British pedigree hinting at legendary handling prowess. It was designed as a purist’s driver’s car, attracting enthusiasts who valued dynamic excellence and an unfiltered driving experience.
However, ownership revealed why Lotus has such a complicated reputation. While the Toyota-sourced V6 was reliable, everything around it wasn’t. Owners reported electrical issues, interior pieces breaking or falling off, and a sparse dealer network that turned routine service into an adventure, undermining the car’s premium aspirations.
The tight cabin and difficult entry and exit also wore thin quickly, especially for taller drivers who felt like they were folding themselves into a racing seat every time. This lack of everyday usability, combined with persistent quality issues and challenging service logistics, often meant the Evora delivered a less satisfying long-term ownership experience than its initial appeal suggested.
Car Model Information: 2021 Lotus Evora GT Base
Name: Lotus Evora
Caption: Lotus Evora 400
Manufacturer: Lotus Cars
Production: 2009–2021,6,117 produced
ModelYears: 2010–2021
Assembly: Hethel,Norfolk,England
Designer: Russell Carr
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: 2+2 (car body style),coupé
Related: Lotus 3-Eleven,Infiniti Emerg-e
Layout: Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Engine: Toyota,Toyota GR engine#2GR-FE,V6 engine
Transmission: Aisin Seiki#Aisin AI,Manual transmission
Wheelbase: 2575 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4395 mm
Width: 1848 mm
Height: 1229 mm
Weight: cvt
Sp: uk
Successor: Lotus Emira
Predecessor: Lotus Europa S
Categories: 2+2 coupés, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with dead external links, Articles with dead external links from December 2018, Articles with dead external links from May 2019
Summary: The Lotus Evora is a sports car produced by the British company Lotus. The car, which was developed under the project name Project Eagle, was launched on 22 July 2008 at the British International Motor Show. The Evora S was launched in 2010 with a supercharged 3.5-litre V6. A facelifted and more powerful Evora 400 model was unveiled at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, followed by another more powerful variant, the Evora GT430, which was unveiled in 2017.
The Lotus Evora is based on the first all-new vehicle platform from Lotus Cars since the introduction of the Lotus Elise in 1995 (the Exige and the 2006 Europa S are both derivatives of the Elise). The Evora was planned to be the first of three vehicles to be built on the same platform. The sales target was 2,000 cars per year, with prices between £45,000 and just over £50,000, and sales in America scheduled from the beginning of 2010.
Get more information about: Lotus Evora
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Brand: Lotus Model: Evora
Price: $89,950 Mileage: 6,705 mi.
6. **Porsche Boxster/Cayman (Base Models)**The entry-level versions of Porsche’s mid-engine Boxster and Cayman are universally lauded for their brilliant handling dynamics, offering unparalleled balance and responsiveness on winding roads. Their inherent chassis capability and driver engagement are benchmarks in the sports car world, providing a visceral connection that few rivals can match.
Despite their dynamic brilliance, some owners felt shortchanged by Porsche’s deliberate decontenting strategy. With around 300 horsepower, these base models conspicuously lacked features standard on cheaper competitors, making the value proposition questionable once new car excitement faded, often due to the necessity of costly options.
The situation was exacerbated by Porsche’s notoriously expensive options list; adding features most buyers expected as standard could easily inflate the price by $20,000-$30,000. Moreover, while the firm suspension was a revelation on smooth roads, it became punishing on typical American pavement, diminishing daily comfort and practicality.
Car Model Information: 2019 Porsche 718 Boxster
Name: unbulleted list
Caption: Porsche Boxster Spyder (718)
Manufacturer: Porsche
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: unbulleted list
Assembly: unbulleted list
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: unbulleted list
Related: unbulleted list
Layout: Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Predecessor: Porsche 968
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles needing additional references, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles needing additional references from August 2025
Summary: The Porsche Boxster and Cayman are mid-engine two-seater sports cars manufactured and marketed by German automobile manufacturer Porsche across four generations—as a two-door, two-seater roadster (Boxster) and a three-door, two-seater fastback coupé (Cayman).
The first generation Boxster was introduced in 1996; the second generation Boxster and the Cayman arrived in late 2005; and the third generation launched in 2012. Since the introduction of the fourth generation in 2016, the two models have been marketed as the Porsche 718 Boxster and Porsche 718 Cayman.
The nameplate Boxster is a portmanteau of boxer, a reference to its flat or boxer engine, and Speedster, a nod to the original Porsche Speedster of the 1950’s. The nameplate Cayman is an alternative spelling of caiman, a member of the alligator family.
In May 2025 Porsche North America confirmed the rumours that global “production for all current 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman variants, including RS models, is scheduled to end in October of” 2025. Porsche CEO Oliver Blume has confirmed future production of full-electric replacements but said they will arrive in the “medium term.”
Get more information about: Porsche Boxster and Cayman
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Brand: Porsche Model: Boxster/Cayman
Price: $59,900 Mileage: 3,595 mi.
7. **Mercedes-AMG GT**The Mercedes-AMG GT burst onto the scene appearing to be a proper supercar rival, packing serious power and aggressive styling. It promised an intoxicating, high-performance experience that resonated with purists drawn to its potent engine and dynamic potential.
Yet, living with the GT proved challenging for many owners. Its wide body and poor visibility made urban driving stressful, while the firm ride quality ensured every pothole resonated sharply through the cabin, quickly wearing thin on comfort.
Compounding this, interior quality often fell short of its $115,000-plus price tag. Owners frequently felt the infotainment system and ergonomics were less refined than those in a standard C-Class, a noticeable disparity given the substantial investment.
8.The Chevrolet Corvette C7’s base model offered accessible, exhilarating performance, truly embodying the American ideal of raw power and track-ready capability for a wide range of drivers. Its aggressive styling and signature V8 sound promised unforgettable driving experiences.
However, the interior quality often served as a daily reminder that owners had purchased a Chevy, not a premium sports car. Hard plastics dominated the cabin, the infotainment system lagged rivals, and frustrating squeaks and rattles developed surprisingly quickly.
Without the optional magnetic ride control, the ride quality made longer trips uncomfortable, compelling many owners to opt for their daily driver instead. This undermined the C7’s potential as a versatile high-performance vehicle.
Car Model Information: 2022 Toyota Camry SE
Name: Chevrolet Corvette (C7)
Caption: Chevrolet Corvette Z06
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Production: September 2013 – July 2017 (due to temporary shutdown of plant),November 2017 – November 2019
ModelYears: 2014–2019
Assembly: Bowling Green, Kentucky
Designer: Hwasup Lee
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: targa top
Platform: GM Y platform
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout#Front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Related: IsoRivolta GTZ,Equus Bass 770
Engine: LS based GM small-block engine#LT1,LS based GM small-block engine#LT4,LS based GM small-block engine#LT5
Transmission: Tremec,GM 6L80 transmission,GM 8L90 transmission
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: cvt
Width: cvt
Height: cvt
Weight: cvt
Sp: us
Predecessor: Chevrolet Corvette (C6)
Successor: Chevrolet Corvette (C8)
Categories: 2010s cars, Articles with short description, CS1 Japanese-language sources (ja), Cars discontinued in 2019, Cars introduced in 2013
Summary: The Chevrolet Corvette (C7) is the seventh generation of the Corvette sports car manufactured by American automobile manufacturer Chevrolet from 2014 until 2019. The first C7 Corvettes were delivered in the third quarter of 2013. The racing variants include the C7.R, which won the GTLM 24 Hours of Le Mans.
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Corvette C7
Price: $23,995 Mileage: 61,076 mi.
9.The Audi TT, especially in its later generations, transitioned from a distinctive icon into a sophisticated coupe that highlighted the brand’s renowned build quality. It offered a premium and understated sports car experience, appealing to those who appreciated refined design.
Despite its polish, the driving dynamics often felt too isolated, leaving enthusiasts cold. The steering offered little feedback, and the chassis prioritized comfort over genuine engagement, creating a somewhat sterile experience.
Many buyers realized they had essentially purchased a very pretty Golf with less practicality. The premium pricing then became hard to justify when the driving experience failed to deliver the emotional connection they’d anticipated from a sports coupe.
Car Model Information: 2018 Audi TT 2.0T
Name: Audi TT
Caption: 2019 Audi TT Sport 40 TFSi
Manufacturer: Audi AG
Production: October 1998 – November 2023
ModelYears: 1999–2023
Assembly: Győr
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: unbulleted list
Platform: Volkswagen Group A platform,Volkswagen Group MQB platform
Sp: uk
Categories: 2+2 coupés, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Audi TT is a production front-engine, 2-door, 2+2 sports coupé and roadster, manufactured and marketed by Audi from 1998 to 2023 across three generations.
For each of its three generations, the TT has been based on consecutive generations of Volkswagen’s “Group A” platforms, starting with its “PQ34” fourth generation. The TT shares powertrain and suspension layouts with its platform mates, including the Audi A3, like a transversely mounted front-engine, powering front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, and fully independent suspension using MacPherson struts in front.
The TT’s first two generations were assembled by Audi’s Hungarian subsidiary, one of the world’s largest engine manufacturing plants, using bodyshells manufactured and painted at Audi’s Ingolstadt plant and parts made entirely by the Hungarian factory for the third generation.
The last of the 662,762 Audi TTs was manufactured in November 2023.
Get more information about: Audi TT
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Brand: Audi Model: TT
Price: $21,980 Mileage: 110,607 mi.
10.The first-generation Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 masterfully captured the essence of pure driving fun with their lightweight, balanced rear-wheel-drive dynamics. They rapidly earned a cult following among driving purists, proving that thrilling performance could be achieved without overwhelming horsepower.
However, the modest 200-horsepower flat-four left owners desperately wishing for more power. The infamous ‘torque dip’ frustrated overtaking, and while the chassis could handle significantly more, owners were limited without voiding warranties.
Beyond the powertrain, the sparse interior, firm ride, and significant road noise made these cars a challenging proposition for daily use. They often felt too raw and uncompromising for drivers who needed their sports car to double as a practical commuter.
Car Model Information: 2017 Subaru BRZ Series.Yellow
Name: Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ
Caption: 2022 Toyota GR86 Premium (ZN8)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: January 2012 – present
ModelYears: 2013–present
Assembly: Ōta, Gunma
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: fastback,coupé
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Sp: uk
Categories: 2+2 coupés, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ are 2+2 sports cars jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, manufactured at Subaru’s Gunma assembly plant.
The 2+2 fastback coupé has a naturally aspirated boxer engine, front-engined, rear-wheel-drive configuration, 53/47 front/rear weight balance and low centre of gravity; it was inspired by Toyota’s earlier AE86, a small, light, front-engine/rear-drive Corolla variant widely popular for Showroom Stock, Group A, Group N, Rally, Club and drift racing.
For the first-generation model, Toyota marketed the sports car as the 86 in Asia, Australia, North America (from August 2016), South Africa, and South America; as the Toyota GT86 in Europe; as the 86 and GT86 in New Zealand; as the Toyota FT86 in Brunei, Nicaragua and Jamaica and as the Scion FR-S (2012–2016) in the United States and Canada.
The second-generation model is marketed by Toyota as the GR86 as part of the Gazoo Racing family.
Get more information about: Toyota 86
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Brand: Subaru Model: BRZ
Price: $21,747 Mileage: 54,658 mi.
11. **McLaren 570S**McLaren’s ‘entry-level’ 570S delivered exotic performance and breathtaking looks, aiming to bring a taste of supercar thrills to a slightly broader, yet still exclusive, audience. Its speed and design were undeniably captivating.
Yet, for many, the ownership experience quickly spiraled into a financial nightmare. Depreciation hit like a falling anvil, with some cars losing $50,000 or more within the first year, severely impacting its long-term value.
Reliability issues, from electrical glitches to major component failures, compounded the problem. A sparse dealer network meant long service waits, and routine maintenance costs were eye-watering, making Porsche pricing seem reasonable by comparison.
Car Model Information: 2019 McLaren 570S Base
Name: McLaren 570S
Manufacturer: McLaren Automotive
Related: McLaren GT,McLaren 675LT,McLaren 600LT,McLaren P1
Production: 2015–2021
Assembly: Woking,Surrey,England
Class: Sports car
BodyStyle: coupé
Layout: Rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout
Platform: carbon fibre
Engine: McLaren M838T engine,twin-turbo,V8 engine
Transmission: Graziano Trasmissioni
Wheelbase: 105.1 in
Abbr: on
Length: 178.3 in
Width: 75.4 in
Height: 47.3 in
Weight: {{convert,1356,kg,lb,0,abbr=on
Successor: McLaren Artura,McLaren GT
Doors: Butterfly doors
Designer: Rob Melville
Sp: uk
Powerout: cvt
Categories: 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with dead external links from March 2023
Summary: The McLaren 570S is a sports car designed and manufactured by the British car manufacturer McLaren Automotive, produced from 2015 until 2021. It was unveiled at the 2015 New York International Auto Show.
Get more information about: McLaren 570S
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Brand: McLaren Model: 570S
Price: $159,999 Mileage: 8,640 mi.
12.In its later years, the Maserati GranTurismo captivated with its breathtaking Italian styling and the glorious, symphonic soundtrack of its Ferrari-engineered V8 engine. It represented a compelling fusion of exotic design and luxurious grand touring comfort.
However, the car struggled to mask its age. The infotainment system felt ancient, operating like a relic from 2008, and reliability proved inconsistent, undermining the otherwise engaging driving experience.
Transmission options, from a clunky automated manual to a conventional automatic that dulled performance, further highlighted its dated nature. High maintenance costs, not matched by its performance, and rapidly wearing interior materials only added to owner regret.
Having meticulously examined twelve specific examples, it becomes clear that sports car ownership, while driven by powerful emotion, often ignores harsh realities. The allure of speed, design, and a direct road connection is undeniable. However, as our journey has shown, good looks, a potent engine, and an enticing price tag don’t automatically guarantee a satisfying, long-term experience. These machines demonstrate how the honeymoon period can quickly fade, leaving owners grappling with unexpected compromises and buyer’s remorse.
Beyond individual model shortcomings, a broader analysis reveals significant financial drawbacks. Operating high-performance cars is costly, often surprising buyers. Car and Driver reports insurance premiums escalate with horsepower. Matthew Edwards’ Ford Mustang GT incurred an ‘extra $100 to $200 per month’ for insurance, plus ‘$1,500 to $2,000 annually’ for routine maintenance. Specialized tires alone cost ‘$1,000 to replace’ and required frequent changes, compounding the ongoing financial strain.
Fuel costs are another constant expense; powerful engines demand premium fuel at prodigious rates, as Edwards’ ‘$60 to $80 per week on gas’ illustrates. Furthermore, the temptation to push limits can increase the likelihood of traffic citations. Critically, sports cars are inherently less practical. Designed for performance, they are unsuitable for multiple passengers or large items, often lack fuel efficiency, and can be less safe than larger vehicles. This lack of versatility often clashes with daily life, leading owners to wish for a ‘more practical choice.’
Car Model Information: 2012 Maserati GranTurismo MC
Name: Maserati GranTurismo,Maserati GranCabrio
Manufacturer: Maserati
Production: 2007 – December 2019 (40,520 produced),April 2023 – present
ModelYears: 2008–2019,2023–present
Class: Grand tourer
BodyStyle: 2+2 (car body style),coupé
Predecessor: Maserati Coupé
Categories: 2010s cars, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles lacking reliable references from October 2024, Articles with hAudio microformats
Summary: The Maserati GranTurismo and GranCabrio are a series of grand tourers produced by the Italian manufacturer Maserati, succeeding the Maserati Coupé and Spyder.
The first generation GranTurismo (M145) was introduced at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show and was produced from 2007 to December 2019. It set a record for the fastest development of a car, going from design to production in just nine months. The model featured a 4.2-litre V8 engine initially, which was later upgraded to a 4.7-liter engine in the GranTurismo S variant. The GranTurismo MC, a racing version developed for the FIA GT4 European Cup, and the GranTurismo MC Sport Line, a customisation programme, were also part of the lineup.
The GranTurismo Sport, introduced in 2012, replaced the GranTurismo S and featured a revised 4.7-litre engine. The GranTurismo MC Stradale, unveiled in 2010, is a more track-focused version inspired by a race variant. The GranCabrio convertible version was unveiled at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show and produced from 2010 to 2019. The GranCabrio Sport was introduced in 2011 and the GranCabrio MC was launched in 2013, the latter featuring improved aerodynamics and a light bump in power.
The second generation, GranTurismo II (M189), was revealed in 2022 and began production in April 2023. It offers three models: Modena, Trofeo, and Folgore (electric). Based on the Giorgio Sport platform, petrol engined models feature a newly-developed 3.0-litre Nettuno twin-turbocharged V6 engine, with the Trofeo variant being the most powerful at 550 PS (405 kW; 542 hp). The Folgore model is a battery electric version with a range of 450 km (279.6 mi).
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Brand: Maserati Model: GranTurismo
Price: $39,999 Mileage: 24,295 mi.
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