can sometimes be overshadowed by the amount of additional technology inside them today. Sports cars from decades past are more notable for their raw power, dynamic handling, and iconic designs.
The ‘90s was definitely one of the best eras for sports cars from a variety of automakers. Here are five of our favorite picks, some of which were showcased on
Even back in the ‘90s, the Carrera was a fun and stylish powerhouse. The 1992 model sported a 3.6-liter flat-six engine with 260 horsepower on tap at 6,100 rpm. It has a 0-60 mph time under six seconds and a top speed of 162 mph.
This particular model differentiates itself from the original Carreras with a lighter body, revised styling, and different wheels. As you might expect, its uniqueness often causes it to fetch triple digits on the used market.
. For this generation, it came with a V8 engine capable of 260 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. It's only available in RWD and has a four-speed automatic transmission.
Although it wasn't the quickest car in the segment, it got countless good reviews for its fun steering. Its exterior is also extremely reserved by sports car standards. Despite that, it appeared in many movies and music videos at the time, cementing its reputation as a piece of ‘90s history.
Nissan Skyline GTR R33
This model of this classic sports car didn't have as high of power output as some of its rivals. However, this was largely due to Japan's automotive regulations at the time, which limited the potential of several sports vehicles. Still, the Nissan Skyline GTR R33 is no slouch with nearly 280 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque.
HotCars says this Nissan Skyline also benefited from a refined suspension and better stability, making it more proficient around twisty turns. You can get one of these beauties for around $50,000, but expect to pay some hefty import fees.
BMW Z1
With its 168-hp straight-six engine, the BMW Z1 doesn't have the most exciting powertrain. However, like all of its kin, it benefits from thrilling handling and a refined interior. Another unique feature was its flat plastic undertray, allowing it to be lighter and even more aerodynamic.
This model was only available as a two-seater roadster, so it's more stylish than functional. The BMW Z1 is famous for its sliding body panels, meaning you can roll back the doors as well as the roof. Its body shape would serve as the inspiration for future models, though these sadly didn't feature vertically-sliding doors.
Ferrari F50
This ‘90s classic sports car is too rare and expensive for most people to afford, but we can appreciate it nonetheless. It comes with a vicious V12 engine that makes 514 horsepower, with a top speed of 201 mph. It's still just as fast as its modern incarnations, reaching 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. An F50 GT version was also available, tuned to make a whopping 739 horsepower.
Although the Ferrari F40 usually gets more attention, this sports car has a bigger front spoiler, rear spoiler, and swooping body lines. Its feather-light carbon-fiber chassis, combined with its powerful engine, make it an absolute thrill to drive.
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