Best sports cars in Australia - 2023: know price, specs & features

Sports cars are some of the most fun cars to own and use. They are designed for performance, with powerful engines and sleek designs. This makes them exhilarating to drive, and they can put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.

Following are some of the best sports cars in Australia. These cars offer a great combination of performance, handling, and affordability.

Whether you are looking for a fun and affordable sports car or a luxurious and high-performance machine, there is sure to be a sports car out there that is perfect for you. Here’s a list and their detailed review!

1. Toyota 86

Data for 2020 Toyota 86 GT Manual

Toyota 86 is the foundation upon which all sports cars have improved upon. Toyota has backed up this living legend for years and has optimised it regularly while keeping the fundamentals intact. The best part of the 86 is the smooth transmission and how it is optimised for maximum traction. These are some of the details which have made this car into somewhat of a movie star. It has featured in one of the most famous racing franchises ‘Fast and the Furious’,

The design of 86 yields impressive results. You don't need to be on a racetrack or driving aggressively to appreciate the inherent balance and playful nature of the 86. While it may not boast excessive power, many enthusiasts choose to tune or modify the 2.0-litre engine for added performance.

Nevertheless, the 86 exudes a pure and crisp driving experience that reiterates its sports car heritage. Additionally, the 86 excels in corners, offering precise steering and a delightful balance, making even heavy traffic a bit more bearable.

Key Features of Toyota 86:

• Anti-lock Braking System
• Traction Control
• Electronic Stability Control
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Dual Zone Climate Control

What’s good about it?

• Affordable
• Fun to drive
• Sharp handling

What’s not so good about it?

• Power Output
• Interior Quality
• Limited Features
  

2. Subaru BRZ

Data for 2022 Subaru BRZ 10th Anniversary Edition ZD8 Manual MY23

Subaru BRZ is the result of taking the boxer engine and fueling it with copious amounts of adrenaline. The BRZ is a thrilling sports car that has gained a reputation for its performance and driving enjoyment.

The BRZ has been designed in collaboration with Toyota, the BRZ shares its platform with the Toyota 86. It features a front engine, and an impressive rear-wheel drive layout, offering excellent balance and handling dynamics. BRZ delivers a pleasurable driving experience with incredible power (thanks to the 233 Bhp engine), torque, acceleration, handling, and epic rear-wheel drive thrills.

Powered by a spirited naturally aspirated engine, the BRZ delivers engaging acceleration and a responsive driving experience. Its lightweight construction and low centre of gravity contribute to its agile and nimble nature, allowing drivers to fully experience the joy of driving. With its sleek and sporty design, the Subaru BRZ stands as an attractive choice for enthusiasts seeking a dynamic and exhilarating ride.

Key Features of Subaru BRZ:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Dual Climate Control
• Cruise Control
• Voice Recognition
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution

What’s good about it?

• Lightweight construction
• Affordable
• Fun to drive

What’s not so good about it?

• Engine Power at Low RPM
• Limited Interior Space
• Limited Tech Features
  

3. Hyundai Veloster

Data for 2019 Hyundai Veloster Manual MY20

The Hyundai Veloster is a unique and sporty compact car that stands out with its distinct design and innovative features. With a single door on the driver's side, two on the passenger side and a tailgate, this configuration adds a touch of practicality without compromising its sporty appeal.

The Veloster offers a range of engine options, including turbocharged variants, providing a blend of performance and fuel efficiency. With responsive handling and precise steering, the Veloster delivers an engaging driving experience, especially in its sportier trims. Base variants are a touch short of the power that you would expect from a true sports car.

As a hatchback, this car’s performance on the road is slightly above ordinary but for those of you looking to trade up in the future, the resale value of Veloster could be a bit disappointing.

Key Features of Hyundai Veloster:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Anti-lock Brake System
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Lane Departure Warning
• Blind Spot Sensor

What’s good about it?

• Unique three-door hatchback design
• Fun and engaging to drive
• Fuel-efficient

What’s not so good about it?

• Rear Visibility
• Ride Quality
• Interior Material Quality
  

4. Ford Mustang

Data for 2022 Ford Mustang High-Performance FN Manual RWD MY22.25

The closest you’ll come to feeling like a pilot on the road is in the cockpit of a Ford Mustang. The sheer power of a Mustang has become somewhat of a legacy and true to its fame, it’s enough to stir your soul. If you’re on the racetrack with one of these beasts, it’ll become a challenge to step off the gas.

Its unmistakable design, powerful performance, and rich history have made it a symbol of automotive passion and freedom. With a range of engine options, from the energetic EcoBoost four-cylinder to the thunderous V8 in the GT models, the Mustang delivers thrilling acceleration and an unforgettable engine soundtrack. Its precise handling, responsive steering, and well-tuned suspension provide an exhilarating driving experience on both winding roads and the racetrack.

Key Features of Ford Mustang:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Anti-lock Brake System
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Lane Departure Warning
• Blind Spot Sensor

What’s good about it?

• Iconic design
• Powerful engines
• Affordable price

What’s not so good about it?

• Interior Build Quality
• Rear Seat Space
• Fuel Efficiency
  

5. Volkswagen Scirocco

Data for 2019 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Super Manual

The Scirocco is the alternative to go for if you’re looking at golf and thinking ‘What’s sportier?’ The Scirocco was designed to be a hatch with a mysterious side. That is it is splendid in the city streets and the open roads just make you test your inner adrenaline junkie.

The Scirocco offers a range of engine options, including turbocharged petrol engines that deliver impressive performance and fuel efficiency. Its responsive handling and precise steering make it a joy to drive, especially on twisty roads. Inside, the Scirocco features a driver-focused cockpit with modern amenities and technology.

The interior of the Scirocco is that of a sedan, the spacious cabin and accessibility to features are elegantly designed but the aesthetics haven’t been compromised with functionality. The Scirocco went out of production in 2017 but by then it was already a fan favourite and had sold over 2,00,000 pieces.

Key Features of Volkswagen Scirocco:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Anti-lock Brake System
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Lane Departure Warning
• Blind Spot Sensor

What’s good about it?

• Sleek design
• Powerful engines
• Fun handling

What’s not so good about it?

• Reliability Concerns
• Infotainment System
• Limited Rear Space
  

6. Mazda MX-5

Data for 2022 Mazda MX-5 G20 ND Manual

So far our favourite on the list, with stunning designs, powerful driving and speed that you can’t get enough of. The style itself will stop you in your tracks and make you want to jump in and take it to the track.

The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata, is an iconic and beloved sports car that embodies the essence of pure driving pleasure. Its timeless design, lightweight construction, and precise handling have made it a favourite among speed fanatics.

The MX-5 offers a thrilling open-top driving experience. With its responsive steering, balanced chassis, and agile dynamics, it delivers exceptional handling and a connection to the road that few cars can match. Whether on twisty mountain roads or cruising along the coastline, the MX-5 provides sheer enjoyment.

Key Features of Mazda MX-5:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Anti-lock Brake System
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Lane Departure Warning
• Blind Spot Sensor

What’s good about it?

• Lightweight construction
• Rear-wheel drive layout
• Fun driving dynamics

What’s not so good about it?

• Limited Cargo Space
• Noise Levels
• Limited Features
  

7. Nissan 370Z

Data for 2019 Nissan 370Z Z34 Manual MY20

The Nizzan 370Z has been made for racing enthusiasts. Thus it is equally optimised for the road and the track. It is designed by engineers at NISMO which makes it immensely capable. Key dimensions of performance are engineered, evaluated, and elevated to create a vehicle worthy of wearing the NISMO badge.

The Nissan 370Z is a dynamic and performance-oriented sports car that combines power, agility, and striking design. With its muscular stance and aerodynamic lines, the 370Z makes a bold statement on the road.

At the heart of the 370Z lies a potent V6 engine that delivers exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling exhaust note. Its responsive handling, precise steering, and well-tuned suspension ensure an engaging driving experience, whether carving through corners or cruising on the open highway.

Key Features of Nissan 370Z:

• Anti-lock Braking System
• Traction Control
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Climate Control
• Cruise Control

What’s good about it?

• Powerful engine
• Sharp handling
• Rear-wheel drive

What’s not so good about it?

• Outdated Interior
• Limited Visibility
• Fuel Efficiency
  

8. Kia Stinger

Data for 2021 Kia Stinger 330S Auto MY22

The Kia Stinger is a captivating and powerful sports sedan that has made a strong impression in the automotive world. With its bold design, exhilarating performance, and premium features, the Stinger stands out in its segment.

However, the best feature of the Stinger is the Brembo Breaking System. The unique breaking system gives the Stinger better control on the track and road. Mechanical Limited Slip Differential and Electronic Control Suspension add to its already impressive control.

The engineers who made the Stinger tested it on the famous Nurburgring Race Track to test its prowed and standardise it above all. These efforts made Stinger a favourite sedan made for the tracks. It successfully blends performance and refinement, making it an enticing choice for those seeking a dynamic and sophisticated driving experience.

Key Features of Kia Stinger:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto available
• Anti-lock Brake System
• Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Lane Departure Warning
• Blind Spot Sensor

What’s good about it?

• Powerful engines
• Luxurious interior
• Sharp handling

What’s not so good about it?

• Interior Material Quality
• Rear Seat Space
• Not very practical
  

Conclusion

Owning a sports car in Australia is an absolute blast! Let me tell you why. First off, our wide-open roads and stunning landscapes are just begging to be explored with a bit of horsepower under the hood. Whether it's cruising along the Great Ocean Road or taking on the twists and turns of the Snowy Mountains, a sports car adds that extra level of excitement to your adventures. However, it's not just about the thrill of the drive. Sports cars bring a sense of style and personality that turns heads wherever you go. They're a statement of individuality and a reflection of your love for the open road. Plus, let's not forget the pure joy of acceleration and the exhilaration of hugging those corners. Sports cars are engineered for performance, offering precise handling, responsive steering, and powerful engines that can make your heart race.

FAQs

1. What are some of the best sports cars available in Australia?

Some of the best sports cars available in Australia include the Ford Mustang, Kia Stinger, Mazda MX-5 and Subaru BRZ.

2.  What should I consider when looking for a sports car in Australia?

When looking for a sports car in Australia, consider factors such as performance, handling, reliability, maintenance costs, fuel efficiency, and available features. Also, think about your intended use, budget, and whether you prefer a convertible or coupe.

3.  How much should I expect to pay for a sports car in Australia?

The price range for sports cars in Australia varies greatly depending on the brand, model, features, and condition. Generally, expect to pay anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars for a new sports car.

4.  Should I buy a new or used sports car in Australia?

The decision to buy a new or used sports car depends on personal preference, budget, and desired features. While new cars offer the latest technology and warranties, used sports cars can provide better value for money if well maintained.

5.  What are some of the fastest sports cars available in Australia?

Some of the fastest sports cars available in Australia include models like the Kia Stinger, Nissan 370Z and Subaru BRZ. These cars offer exceptional acceleration and top speeds, perfect for adrenaline enthusiasts.