The cars of the 2000s show the evolution of the automotive world. Some still have design lines from the late 1990s, while others experimented with bolder designs. Safety features, performance, and new technologies were also emphasized during this era.
We focus on sports cars that evoke a sense of nostalgia and represent the period’s aesthetics, performance, and cultural impact. Here are some sports cars from the 2000s that could be future classics.
We gathered information from different car manufacturers and reputable sites to come up with this list.
10 Honda S2000 (1999-2009)
High-Revving Inline-Four Engine
The Honda S2000 is a two-seater, rear-wheel drive roadster with a naturally-aspirated engine. It gained popularity among car enthusiasts, with 66,000 units sold in the United States. Today, you can purchase a good example of the S2000 for around $32,000.
Engine Specs
|
Manufacturer |
Honda |
|
Production Years |
1999-2003 (AP1) 2004-2009 (AP2) |
|
Configuration |
Inline-Four |
|
Displacement |
2.0-Liters (AP1) 2.2-Liters (AP2) |
|
Power |
240 Horsepower |
|
Torque |
153 Pound-Feet (AP1) 162 Pound-Feet (AP2) |
The AP1 Honda S2000 (1999-2003) is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine that delivers 240 horsepower and 153 pound-feet of torque. The AP2 generation (2004-2009) features a slightly larger 2.2-liter inline-four engine with 240 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. The S2000 is known for its high-revving engine and excellent handling.
9 BMW M3 E46 (2000-2006)
One Of The Most Successful BMW M Cars
The BMW M3 E46, produced between 2000 and 2006, is known for its thrilling performance and fantastic handling. It is one of the most successful BMW M cars, with 85,000 units sold. The M3 E46 is equipped with a 3.2-liter inline-six engine that delivers 338 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. It is a modern classic and considered one of the best M cars ever made.
8 Subaru Impreza WRX (2000-2003)
Affordable Performance Car
The Subaru Impreza WRX is known for its affordability and performance. This car gained popularity in the world rally circuit and became a good choice for a daily driver. The 2000 to 2003 models are fondly called “Bugeye” by enthusiasts due to their distinct headlights. The WRX is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 227 horsepower and 217 pound-feet of torque. It offers muscular fenders and well-bolstered seats for an exciting ride.
7 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 C5 (2001-2004)
American Sports Car That Changed The Game
The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 C5 is an American sports car that pushed boundaries. It challenged its German and Italian counterparts with its performance and affordability. The Z06 C5 is powered by a 5.7-liter V-8 engine that delivers 385 to 405 horsepower and 385 to 400 pound-feet of torque. It features lightweight construction and excellent handling, making it a top contender for future classic status.
6 Volkswagen R32 (2004)
First Production Car With Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission
The Volkswagen R32 is an impressive hatchback that offers both performance and practicality. It is equipped with a narrow-angle 3.2-liter V-6 engine that produces 240 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque. What sets it apart is its dual-clutch automatic transmission, making it the first large-scale production car to have such technology. The R32 is a rare and unique proposition that holds its value well.
5 Lotus Elise (2005-2011)
Agile And Lightweight
The Lotus Elise is a lightweight sports car that has made a lasting impression with car enthusiasts. The second generation, produced between 2005 and 2011, offers a balance of build quality, performance, and a reliable inline-four engine. It is powered by a naturally-aspirated 1.8-liter inline-four engine that delivers 190 to 250 horsepower and 132 to 179 pound-feet of torque. Its lightweight construction and agility make it a worthy future classic.
4 Audi R8 (2006-2015)
A Sports Car That Defied Convention
The Audi R8 is a breakthrough supercar that defied convention. It featured refined, flowing lines instead of aggressive and angular designs. It also introduced all-wheel drive when most supercars were rear-wheel drive. The R8, produced between 2006 and 2015, used powerful engines, such as the 4.2-liter V-8 and the 5.2-liter V-10, to deliver exceptional performance.
3 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG (2008-2014)
Muscle Car Performance With Sedan Practicality
The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG is a high-performance sedan that combines muscle car performance with sedan practicality. Produced between 2008 and 2014, it is powered by a 6.2-liter V-8 engine that delivers 451 to 480 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The C63 AMG offers a comfortable ride for everyday use while providing exhilarating performance.
2 Porsche Cayman R (2012)
A Rare Beast
The Porsche Cayman R is a rare and highly desirable sports car. Produced in 2012, it is powered by a naturally-aspirated 3.4-liter flat-six engine that delivers 326 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. With its lightweight construction and refined engineering, the Cayman R offers exceptional performance and driving dynamics.
1 Aston Martin V12 Vantage (2009-2013)
A Hardcore V-12 Monster With A Pretty Face
The Aston Martin V12 Vantage is a powerful and rare sports car. Produced between 2009 and 2013, it is equipped with a naturally-aspirated 5.9-liter V-12 engine that delivers 510 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. With its stunning design and exhilarating performance, the V12 Vantage is highly sought after by collectors.