The 2000s have been a decade of fast technological developments, one the place flip telephones changed into smartphones and laptops have been lastly making some good points on desktop computer systems. It was, arguably, the last decade of the Fast And Furious franchise, and one might even argue that it was the rise of tuning tradition throughout many of the United States. Above all, although, it was the last decade of the digital rebellion in our sporty automobiles. The first flappy paddles discovered their approach into up-market supercars, and even the extra mundane equipment got here with a number of digital aids to maintain them in line.

Some loved having their abilities behind the wheel complimented by the digital suspension, self-leveling dampers, four-wheeled steering, and different intelligent robotics that made driving quick a bit simpler. The purists, nonetheless, didn’t just like the rise of digital aids and stored looking for these sports cars that stored true to the old-school setup of three pedals, a stick, and no assist apart from that given by your senses. The automobiles we’ll focus on right here at this time supply the right mix of rawness and digital development from a time once we didn’t hear doomsday preachers asserting the top of the guide transmission.

Last Update October 31, 2023: To preserve issues contemporary on this incredible checklist of among the greatest sports activities automobiles from the 2000s, we have now eliminated one mannequin and added 10 extra.

We have gathered info relating to present, used-market costs for the next fashions from specialised web sites like Cargurus.com, Cars.com, and CarEdge.com. Models have been organized from most costly to the most cost effective.

Related: The Best Affordable Sports Cars

20 2004 – 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera

From $26,000

Porsche 911 is an all-time traditional within the sports activities automobile style, whatever the era. It’s secure to say that, over time, Porsche engineers have mastered the artwork of placing the engine within the trunk. For many the 997 era is the final old-school Porsche 911 (if water-cooled 911s might be thought of old-school).

2004-2013 Porsche 911 Carrera Specs

$30,000 to $60,000 can get you a Porsche 997, however it’s a must to restrict your self to the Carrera fashions as among the high-performance variants like the GT3, GT2, and Turbo command six-figure value tags. Still, with 325 to 408 horsepower, the Porsche 997 Carrera lineup provides respectable sufficient efficiency, with 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) occurring in as little as 4.2 seconds. The 2008 facelift replaces the five-speed Tiptronic automated with a seven-speed PDK. Your entry-level value level for a good instance of the 997 era will set you again a minimum of $26,000. Pristine 997.2 examples can simply go for over $40,000.

19 2004-2011 Mercedes SLK55 AMG

From $16,950

While many would argue that the Porsche Boxster is the perfect compact sports activities automobile, there are worthy alternate options to the mid-engine Porsche. One of them is the R171 Mercedes SLK55 AMG. The German pocket rocket is a really totally different animal than the mid-engine Porsche. If the Boxster is a scalpel, the SLK55 AMG is a sledgehammer. This psychotic pocket rocket packs an enormous V-8 in a compact physique and sends energy completely to the rear wheel.

2004-2011 Mercede SLK55 AMG Specs

When you step on the throttle, you higher maintain on as a result of the twitchy roadster has an excessive urge for food for rear tires. On the opposite hand, powering the SLK55 is the tried-and-tested M113 V-8, a smaller model of which powered the W124 Mercedes 500E – one in every of Porsche’s more unconventional partnerships. So, small dimension, massive engine, and tire-shredding efficiency. What’s to not like?

18 2005-2013 Chevrolet C6 Corvette

From $13,950

The C6 Corvette was pretty revolutionary for the nameplate. Chevy launched the C6 Corvette in 2005, however growth began in 2000. The outcome was a automobile that introduced many firsts. The most vital change that got here with the C6 is the truth that it was practically 5 inches shorter than the C5 Corvette, but it rode on an extended wheelbase – one thing that led to drastically improved dealing with. This along with the updated suspension also led to a ride quality never before seen in a Corvette.

2005-2013 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Specs

Early C6 Corvettes relied on a 6.0-liter, LS2 V-8 pushing out 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet (542 Nm). The mid-cycle refresh changed that with a 6.2-liter LS3 that made 430 horsepower and 424 pound-feet (575 Nm), prompting a 4.0-second 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) dash. You may select between soft-top convertible, Targa, and hardtop coupe physique types. Today, respectable examples of the C6 Corvette might be had for $27,000.

Related: 10 Best American Sports Cars

17 2001-2004 Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06

From $12,995

The C5 Corvette will not be as refined as its successor, the C6, however the C5 Z06 is every bit the modern, American traditional. Even non-Z06 C5 Corvettes featured a revolutionary for the time, hydro-formed, metal chassis, which resulted in 5 instances the structural rigidity of the outgoing C4 Corvette. At 3,119 kilos (1,415 kg), the C5 Z06 can also be featherweight, in comparison with most of its friends. The LS6 V-8 could characteristic the identical displacement because the LS1 V-8, but it surely packs 60 extra horsepower.

2001-2004 Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06 Specs

At the identical time, a Tremec T56 guide, routes energy to the rear, permitting for a quarter-mile time of 11.9 seconds at 116 mph (187 km/h). The C5 Corvette, particularly when geared up with a guide, is a stout platform, however low cost examples can disguise costly issues. You can discover good examples from round $23,500, and they don’t seem to be going to get any cheaper.

16 2007-2015 Mercedes C63 AMG

From $12,495

When it involves German efficiency automobiles, the Mercedes C63 AMG is likely one of the hottest fashions. Thanks to being the model’s most compact, rear-wheel-drive sedan and that includes a handcrafted, V-8 engine, the C63 AMG is, typically, known as a German Muscle automobile. The M156 engine is likely one of the most iconic, modern-day, Mercedes V-8s. It’s the primary V-8 utterly developed by AMG and Mercedes’ final naturally-aspirated V-8. The 204-series C63 has future classics written all over it and is on the market in a sedan (W204), coupe (C204), and wagon (S204).

2007–2015 Mercedes C63 AMG Specs

The M156 is orgasmic and, typically, bulletproof, however provided that upkeep is religiously stored up with. Even the bottom C63 AMG packs 450 horsepower. Beware that the C63 additionally has an urge for food for rear tires, matched solely by its thirst for premium gas. The most cost-effective C63 AMG we discovered prices $12,495, however if you would like to keep away from potential complications, greatest put together round double that.

15 2008-2016 Audi S5

From $12,000

The first-generation Audi S5 is a surprisingly underrated proposition. While not as sharp because the BMW M3 or as ludicrous because the C63 AMG from the identical period, early S5 fashions might nonetheless get you a naturally aspirated V-8, paired with a six-speed guide, in case you go for the coupe. You additionally get Quattro all-wheel drive as customary and in these days, the S5 was a bit extra snug than its German opponents BMW and Mercedes. Facelift fashions forgo the choice of a guide transmission and substitute the six-speed automated for a DSG unit.

2008-2011 Audi S5 Specs

The V-8 can also be changed by a supercharged V-6, which additionally occurs to be one in every of the most underrated European V-6 engines. According to Copilotsearch, models from 2013 to 2015 are greatest averted as they both pack much less efficiency or are extra problematic. As for the V-8 fashions are constituted of 2008 to 2011, and other than occasional issues with the timing-chain tensioner, they’re pretty dependable engines.

Related: Top 10 Best Practical Sports Cars Under $30,000

14 2006-2008 BMW Z4 M E85

From $11,990

The BMW E85 is a direct descendant of the BMW Z3, and prefer it, it was a parts-bin particular. Despite that, it is a enjoyable various to the Mazda MX-5 and because of potent inline-six engines, it packs loads of efficiency. This is most true for the Z4 M, which shares the E46 M3’s S54 inline-six. If you’re keen to accept the much less sensible, two-seater structure, the Z4 M gives barely extra efficiency than its greater brother. The solely transmission choice for the Z4 M is a guide.

2006-2008 BMW Z4 M E85 Specs

The Z4 M Coupe is far rarer and has already been appreciated, however the roadster is still within the budget of most car enthusiasts. The S54 is sort of a Swiss watch and requires meticulous upkeep to work correctly, in any other case, issues can shortly get costly. VANOS, water pump, and rod bearings are the principle issues to look out for as they are often, doubtlessly, detrimental to your M-experience.

13 2004-2009 Honda S2000

From $11,950

The S2000 was Honda’s version of the Mazda MX-5 for these searching for a extra visceral driving expertise and extra efficiency. The philosophy was the identical – a light-weight, compact roadster, and a naturally-aspirated four-banger. Only on this case, the four-banger was an F20C unit that revved to 9,000 RPM. When it got here out in 1998, it had the best particular output of any naturally aspirated inline-four, producing 240 horsepower at 8,300 RPM and 153 pound-feet (208 Nm) at 7,500 RPM.

2004-2009 Honda S2000 Specs

From 2004 to 2009, the AP2 facelift was on supply. It got here with less-punishing suspension and a 2.2-liter model of the identical engine that made 242 horsepower and 163 pound-feet (221 Nm). The bigger, F22 engine was accessible just for Japan and North America whereas EU-spec automobiles continued to be provided with the 9,000-RPM, F20 engine. The 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) took 5.8 seconds. The S2000 is a JDM icon so, if you need instance, it’s a must to spend a minimum of $24,000.

12 2008-2012 Honda Accord Coupe

From $11,000

When you consider luxurious sports activities coupe, there’s a good probability you don’t assume Honda Accord. In actuality, the Japanese mannequin has had a two-door model since 1994. We are speaking in regards to the mannequin based mostly on the eighth-generation Accord, and admittedly, if you’re searching for Japanese reliability and luxurious in a two-door coupe that you simply plan on utilizing every day, it doesn’t get significantly better than this. While high-mileage examples are cheaper, low-mileage examples are solely about $2,500 dearer, on common.

2008-2012 Honda Accord Coupe Specs

Both the K24 and J35 engines will final for a lot of miles in case you handle them, however if you need extra efficiency, attempt to discover a V-6 guide. While typically dependable, the Accord can endure from extreme oil consumption because the miles rack up. This is particularly true for the V-6 engine’s cylinder deactivation system, which is understood to trigger hassle.

Related: 10 Best Japanese Sports Cars Of All Time

11 2009-2020 Nissan 370Z

From $10,990

The Nissan 370Z was produced from 2009 to 2020, which suggests the value varies rather a lot relying on the mannequin yr. Ideally, you need one which’s 2015 or newer as these fashions are extra refined and many of the gremlins have been sorted out. But whatever the yr, the Nissan 370Z is a stout platform that has stood the test of time… and hooning.

2009-2020 Nissan 370Z Specs

The VQ37 engine is a stout platform and all publications have given the 370Z a really high-reliability ranking of 4.3/5, however watch out for examples which have been modified or have shady historical past, as these might be potential cash pits. Although the Z34 chassis can hint its roots to 2001, the 370Z is a really balanced automobile, with the correct amount of oversteer traits. Cheap examples are plentiful, however instance with comparatively low mileage will set you again round $19,500.

10 2000-2006 BMW M3 E46

From $10,950

Arguably the most popular generation of BMW’s M3, the E46 was provided in each coupe and cabriolet kind and delivered “Joy Of Driving” by the buckets. By the early 2000s, an inline-six engine had grow to be a staple in M-0cars, definitely within the M3. Moreover, the E46’s high-revving, 3.2-liter, S54 engine is the final naturally-aspirated straight-six put in an M-car. With 338 to 360 horsepower, relying available on the market and model, the BMW M3 E46 might rocket to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.0 to 4.7 seconds.

2000-2006 BMW M3 E46 Specs

A six-speed guide was customary, however the range-topping M3 CSL solely received the SMG, robotized guide. Luckily, conversions can be found. The E46 M3 is on the market in each coupe and convertible. $13,000 can get you one, however watch out for gremlins. A pristine instance with historical past will set you again a minimum of $30,000.

9 2001-2011 Mercedes SL500

From: $9,500

The R230-generation Mercedes SL is the one to introduce the enduring nameplate to trendy instances. The a lot sleeker design gave the SL sports activities automobile vibes, though its predominant objective was nonetheless being a succesful, long-distance cruiser. In the SL500 kind, the M113 V-8 engine was carried over from the old, but desired SL500 R129, albeit modernized. From 2006 onwards, the SL500 receives the newer, M273 V-8, additionally identified to be fairly strong, albeit not as a lot because the M113. The R230 SL500 can also be thought of one of many final Mercedes fashions to be correctly constructed to final.

2001-2011 Mercedes SL500 Specs

With that mentioned, there are nonetheless a couple of issues to search for. The varied roof and trunk seals might let water into the boot, inflicting havoc with varied electrical methods. Pre-2004 fashions are pre-galvanized so rust might be a problem with these. Aside from that, you may get a contemporary, German traditional with an iconic title that if taken care of, can stand the take a look at of time.

Related: 10 Best V-8 Sports Cars

8 2005-2014 Ford Mustang GT

From $9,000

The fifth era or S197 of the Ford Mustang got here at a time when the category that was outlined by the Mustang approach again in 1964 was wanting like it might bloom once more. Ford rode this wave simply as the unique was turning 40 and unveiled a retro-looking Mustang to interchange the divisive SN95. It harkened again to the previous with out wanting dated from beginning.

2005-2014 Ford Mustang GT Specs

What we’re recommending, although, is the GT model with its 4.6-liter, SOHC, modular V-8 which, by way of its five-speed guide transmission, places 300 horsepower to the bottom. The 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 got here with the 2010 replace, as did the six-speed guide gearbox and much more efficiency. You’re costs within the area of $9,000 for an early GT that has been well-maintained, and as much as $24,000 for a pristine late S197 GT mannequin.

7 2005-2012 Porsche 718 Boxster

From $8,995

The 987 Porsche Boxster was launched within the mid-2000s and reaped the rewards of the company-saving authentic whereas constructing on its components. Following the road of the 997 generation of the 911, the Boxster additionally misplaced the “fried egg” headlights that enraged followers of the traditional round design of earlier generations. Most of the 986’s kinks have been handled within the 987, making for a barely extra trouble-free possession expertise.

2005-2012 Porsche 987 Boxster Specs

The notorious, IMS bearing concern was nonetheless current, albeit on a a lot smaller proportion of autos. Even the bottom, 2.7-liter flat-six places out a decent 240 horsepower, however for the perfect outcomes, it’s a must to keep away from the five-speed Tiptronic. The 2009 facelift is the primary mid-engine Porsche to profit from the PDK transmission. An excellent, base-model Porsche 987 Boxster might be had for $14,000.

6 2004-2006 Pontiac GTO

From $8,995

The final Pontiac GTO was, finally, a automobile that bought in poor numbers and had not one of the uncooked masculinity of the unique muscle car. Still, simply because it was, a rebadged Holden Monaro from Australia does not imply it lacks correct, Muscle automobile credentials. The Aussies have their fair proportion of V-8-powered efficiency machines and the Monaro/GTO already had a 5.7-liter, LS1 V-8 with 350 horsepower. In 2005, the GTO upgraded to the 6.0-liter, LS2 V-8, featured in early C6 Corvettes.

2004-2006 Pontiac GTO Specs

This meant 405 horsepower and 400 pound-feet (542 Nm), which was sufficient for a 4.4-second 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) time if geared up with the six-speed guide. The near-C6 Corvette efficiency was wrapped in a 2+2 coupe bundle and the perfect half is you’ll be able to nonetheless get one for $15,000 to $25,000.

Related: 10 Cheap Sports Cars That Are Outrageously Reliable

5 2002-2009 Nissan 350Z

From $6,000

The Nissan 350Z was a bit of a savior for the Nissan brand. When the 350Z launched in 2002, the U.S. market hadn’t seen a Z automobile in six years. Like its predecessors, the 350Z was a true-to-life sports activities coupe, and on the time it provided a much bigger bang in your buck than automobiles just like the Mazda Miata or Toyota MR2.

2002-2009 Nissan 350Z Specs

The centerpiece of the Nissan 350Z was its 3.5-liter V-6, which developed 287 horsepower and 274 pound-feet (371 Nm). Facelift fashions received the VQ35HR model of the engine, which revved to 7,500 RPM and produced 313 horsepower. Facelift fashions are additionally far more trouble-free, particularly about oil consumption. The 350Z was able to 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.4 seconds on to a prime pace of 156 mph (252 km/h). You can discover early examples for as little as $9,000 with well-maintained and low-mileage fashions nonetheless promoting for round $25,000.

4 2005-2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata NC

From $5,950

Mazda Miata is at all times the answer for reasonably priced, compact, sports activities automobiles. Although there are alternate options within the type of the Toyota 86, any of the 4 generations of the MX-5 Miata will do the job. The third era appears to be the black sheep of the household as it’s the largest of all Miata generations. With that mentioned, it is also price noting that, earlier than the Miata ND facelift, the NC was the most powerful MX-5 you could get.

2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata Specs

In a 2.0-liter guise, the MX-5 packs as much as 167 horsepower and 139 pound-feet (188 Nm). The NC might weigh as a lot as 2,568 kilos (1,165 kg), which was a bit heavy for a Miat, however nonetheless gentle sufficient to offer extra highly effective sports activities automobiles a run for his or her cash. Because it is the least desired of all MX-5 generations, a good NC Miata might be had for $9,000.

3 2009-2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

From $5,895

The first, correct sports activities automobile from South Korea as soon as bore the Genesis name (now Hyundai’s luxury brand), which can also be dirt-cheap, however there are some things you could have to concentrate on. First off, construct high quality, particularly on early fashions meant for the North American market, is not the perfect, and most plastics will remind you of their existence by way of varied squeaks and rattles. The engines are, typically, dependable, so long as they’re correctly maintained. Both, the two.0 turbo-four and three.8-liter V-6 are very specific about engine oil so, be sure to are utilizing the proper specification to keep away from catastrophic failure.

2010-2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Specs

If all is true, these engines can final a very long time with out critical points. The Genesis Coupe is, typically, in contrast with the Nissan 370Z, however Infiniti’s G37/Q60 is a extra acceptable comparability since each automobiles are supposed to be a steadiness between a long-distance cruiser and a sports activities coupe. Depending on the engine and mannequin yr, good examples with low mileage might be had from round $9,500. Early Hyundai Genesis Coupes, geared up with the two.0-liter turbo-four and a five-speed automated, supply the least efficiency.

Related: The Best Affordable Sports Cars On The Market Today

2 Toyota Celica GT-S

From $4,490

Toyota’s reply to the Acura Integra Type-R within the Nineteen Nineties was the Celica GT-S. Like the Acura, Toyota’s compact sports activities automobile options economy-car underpinnings, albeit modified to suit the automobile’s sporty aspirations. In GT-S guise, the Celica trades its 1ZZ inline-four for a 2ZZ unit with the identical displacement. The key distinction is the Yamaha head, which permits the engine to rev to eight,500 RPM, earlier than gas cut-off. Euro-spec fashions, dubbed Celica TS, characteristic Lotus software program, including 10 extra horsepower.

1999–2005 Toyota Celica GT-S Specs

These little Toyotas are nonetheless comparatively underrated, which is why they’re nowhere close to the value of an Integra Type-R/ Type-S from the identical interval. The Celica GT-S is reasonable to run, though pre-facelift fashions can endure from oil hunger because of the lack of a baffled oil pan and the inventory oil pump not being ample.

1 1999-2007 Toyota MR2 Spyder

From $3,990

The final generation of the Toyota MR2 had the unenviable activity of selecting up the torch from its SW20 predecessor. Gone have been the turbocharged, 3S-GTE engines, and as a substitute a 1.8-liter 1ZZ-FED was tasked with propulsion. With simply 138 horsepower and 127 pound-feet (170 Nm), efficiency aspirations weren’t excessive, however the W30 MR2 weighed simply 2,195 kilos (996 kg).

1999–2007 Toyota MR2 Spyder Specs

With a close-ratio, five-speed guide, the compact Toyota sports activities automobile might attain 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.5 seconds. There was a six-speed sequential transmission, which took 1.2 seconds longer to 60 mph. The W30 Toyota MR2 can greatest be described as a cut-price Lotus Elise. Depeding on situation and mileage, you’ll be able to choose one up for $4,000 to $11,000.

Sources: Cargurus.com,Cars.com, and CarEdge.com