In terms of features not available in the UK, the Mercedes E Class does not come with air suspension as an option. Instead, UK buyers will get steel spring suspension with adaptive damping. This may not seem significant, but the air-equipped European press car demonstrated impressive body control and provided a smooth ride over bumps and obstacles. Considering the condition of UK roads, it is a bit of an oversight not to offer this setup to British buyers.
On the positive side, the E-Class handles well for its large size. It may lean slightly in corners, but it offers plenty of grip and precise steering. The rear-wheel steering, which enhances maneuverability on twisty roads, is unfortunately not available for UK buyers. The only real weakness is the spongy brake pedal, which can affect confidence when entering corners.
Despite its increased size compared to its predecessor, the latest-generation E-Class feels more agile. This is especially noticeable when sitting in the rear, thanks to an additional 2cm added to the wheelbase, providing more legroom for rear-seat passengers on long journeys.
Passengers will also appreciate the striking interior design of the E-Class. Taking cues from the EQE, the interior exudes a sense of luxury and elegance reminiscent of a Gulfstream jet. The ambient lighting and high-quality materials add to the overall appeal, and the build quality is top-notch.
If you can’t see the Developer tab in Excel, don’t worry. It’s not visible by default. However, depending on whether you share the software with others or not, you may not need to enable it. But if you find that the Developer tab is missing, follow these steps:
If you are using Windows, click on File in the top menu and select Options from the drop-down menu.
Choose Customize Ribbon and locate the Main Tabs section.
Check the box next to Developer to turn on the Developer tab.
If you are using macOS, click on Excel in the top menu and select Preferences from the drop-down menu.
Choose Ribbon & Toolbar and find the Main Tabs section. Look for the Customize the Ribbon category.
Check the box next to Developer to enable the Developer tab, and then click Save.
Make sure the Developer tab is now visible on the ribbon. If it is, you’re all set to start creating and running your macros. Keep in mind that the Developer tab will remain visible on the ribbon unless you either disable it in the Options menu or reinstall Excel.
There’s a new hypercar on the road – or rather, there will be. The dynamic debut won’t happen until 2025, but the design and the engine have already been unveiled. We’re talking about the 777 Hypercar, a track-only vehicle created by the newly formed 777 Motors of Andrea Levy (President of the Milano Monza Motor Show).
The 777 is a creature born in a partnership between several companies, each capable of creating one of the world’s most exclusive (and incredible) cars. So let’s get to know it better.
We chatted with Levy, who told us all the secrets of his new hypercar.
Track Only
Designed exclusively for the track, the 777 Hypercar is a collaboration of Italian automotive excellence, starting with Dallara, which is responsible for aerodynamics engineering and production.
The Emilia, Italy manufacturer was joined by Gibson Technology for the engine (more on that in a moment) and Sparco, the brand chosen to create the exclusive clothing line. The design of the car, however, came from the pencil of Umberto Palermo Design.
“I asked him to hide the monstrous performance of the 777 Hypercar and I would say he did it very well, softening those lines that we are usually used to seeing on cars that run the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The look then is reminiscent of a road-going hypercar.”
All About Lightness
Built on a carbon monocoque chassis (the car weighs 1,984 pounds / 900 kilograms), the 777 Hypercar relies on sophisticated aerodynamics to help it generate 4,629 lbs (2,100 kg) of downforce at a speed of 230 mph (370 kmh), with the hypercar able to withstand a lateral acceleration of up to 3.5 and 4.0 Gs.
Lightness was the starting point for the birth of the 777.
“I am a frequent track goer, both to watch races and to race my cars. What have I discovered over the years? Lightness is one of the keys to having fun, to going fast, to enjoying a car, and to turning a lot,” said Levy. “Lightness in fact allows a continuity of performance… my goal was to create a car that weighed no more than 900 kg.”
So the Italian hypercar was not born from an idea of power, but of weight. To be contained as much as possible.
“The power-to-weight ratio is important, but the weight must be low. At this juncture, the hybrid does not help. And as for engine choice, I always prefer the almost infinite progression of the [naturally] aspirated engine. Without resorting to downsizing. For me, a real sports car must have at least a V8.”
With that in mind, to move the 777 Hypercar there could only be a naturally aspirated 4.5-liter V8 with 730 horsepower at 9,000 rpm. No supercharging. No electrification of any kind. Everything as it used to be, screaming performance (with a top speed of 230 mph / 370 kmh), but above all else, lightness. And also an eye to sustainability. In fact, the eight-cylinder runs on synthetic fuels, which allows for a 65 percent decrease in CO2 emissions.
An extreme car through and through, which uses the track as its home and hunting ground. No license plate. And above all, no regulations to limit its performance.
“Right from the start, I told the Dallara and Gibson engineers that we don’t follow any regulations. It is a difficult concept to understand, having no limits sometimes is scary. The car is derived from models that run in endurance racing, with an FIA LMP2 homologated chassis.”
“I asked, ‘What is the maximum driving pleasure for car enthusiasts?’ Not following regulations allows us to be freer and have more performance. The pole position in the 6 Hours of Monza this year was 1:35.358, the 777 runs in 1:33.”
So, a pure, genuine racing car – one that doesn’t miss a thing. Not having to follow the rules of some championships, in fact, makes the 777 Hypercar a unique vehicle. It some ways, it is uncharted territory.
“Performance in motorsport has not improved in recent years. Why? Because the first goal of motorsport is the show. What happened in F1? Where one car got behind another and could not overtake, the regulations began to favor overtaking. And that’s because you have to have fun with it. My approach is completely different because I don’t race. And if I don’t race, everything on the market is no good, because it is designed to favor those who follow.”
For A Limited Few
The 777 Hypercar is extreme in every aspect, even when static. In fact, just seven examples of the 777 Hypercar will be produced, and each owner will receive training to make the most of the car’s performance. In addition, each customer will have the opportunity to train behind the wheel of the Dallara simulator in Varano de Melegari, Italy, and Indianapolis. And to continue the training directly from home, they will receive a professional simulator equipped with the same seat as the 777 – worth about $112,000 (€100,000).
This special “home” simulator is built on a Dallara chassis and is able to perfectly replicate the behavior of the real car. Note that also included in the car’s equipment is a racing kit from Sparco and a helmet from Stilo that allows real-time communication between the driver, engineers, and mechanics during track days.
Track days in that of Monza, where the seven hypercars will have their home in a dedicated space inside the Autodromo, with seven events a year organized for owners. Basically, the 777s will remain guarded at the track, where they will be cared for and pampered, ready to let loose at a moment’s notice. But owners who want will also be able to take them home.
Already Looking To The Future
But there aren’t only seven hypercars planned for the future of 777 Motors. Concurrently, the brand will build the 777 Hypercar Unit-000, the experimental version that will become a kind of laboratory on wheels equipped with the latest autonomous driving, AI driver assist, and virtual coaching technologies.
The car will be built in collaboration with Polimove, Ascari, and the Indy Autonomous Challenge. In addition, a new international research center will be built to produce this experimental super sports car, which will welcome and make use of engineering clusters and universities around the world in an open-source collaboration.
“A proprietary patent we are going to do on the lab car because different partners want to explore these issues. We are open to collaborations and we would also like to create a project within the project, once the virtual coaching is finished, and make it available to any supercar because we think it is unexplored terrain. Also because whatever we’re going to try – autonomous driving, AI, assistance systems – we’re going to try it on 230 mph (370 kmh) cars, and any testing is done on an extreme car.”
How To See The 777 Hypercar
The Italian hypercar can be discovered live at the 777 Motors Lounge, a multimedia open space that can be visited by appointment and is located at the Monza Autodrome, adjacent to the Juan Manuel Fangio statue.
The Ford Fiesta 1.0T Ecoboost from 2012-17 may not save you from a speeding train or cover a puddle with its coat, but it can definitely put a smile on your face. When it’s not dealing with issues like a timing belt failure or overheating, it offers a fun driving experience. Plus, when you’re ready to move on from it, you can expect a good portion of your initial investment back.
While many cars can offer similar benefits, the Ford Fiesta stands out for its ease of purchase. There are currently around 2000 1.0T Ecoboosts available for sale on a major website, with prices ranging from £2000 to £15,000. You’ll find these cars being sold by individuals as well as main dealers, giving you plenty of options to choose from.
With such a wide selection, it should be nearly impossible to end up with a poor choice. If you don’t like the service history of one car, you can easily find a better alternative nearby.
What is Ecoboost?
Ecoboost is Ford’s term for its range of turbocharged, direct-injection petrol engines. These engines are designed to deliver power and torque similar to larger engines while offering lower emissions and improved fuel economy on the factory test bench. In this case, we’ll focus on the 1.0-litre three-cylinder version, which comes in 98bhp, 123bhp, and 138bhp outputs.
When it first launched, the Ecoboost engine made quite an impression. Both the media and the public were impressed by its smoothness and responsiveness. However, Ford’s claims about its economy didn’t quite match up. Autocar’s testers preferred the 98bhp version for its balance of performance and value for money.
The introduction of this engine coincided with a major overhaul of the Mk7 Fiesta. The most noticeable changes were the large trapezoidal grille, LED daytime-running lights, and a ‘power dome’ bonnet. Inside, there were updates such as voice-activated in-car connectivity, Active City Stop, and the introduction of MyKey, which allows parents to limit the vehicle’s performance when their child is driving.
The trim levels available included Zetec (the most popular choice with its competitive pricing and standard features like 15in alloys, DAB radio, 4.2in-screen infotainment system, heated front windscreen, air conditioning, and hill start assist). There were also higher trims like Zetec Colour Edition, which focused on more aesthetically pleasing features, the ‘sporty’ ST Line, and the ‘luxurious’ Titanium X.
Are you prepared for an exhilarating experience that won’t drain your finances? Look no further! Join us on a journey into the realm of budget-friendly sports cars renowned for their reliability and thrilling driving experiences. Gone are the days when owning a sports car jeopardized your financial stability. With advancements in automotive engineering and a competitive market, a captivating range of affordable options awaits every enthusiast.
We have meticulously curated a selection of ten sports cars that go beyond offering heart-pounding performance—they also deliver exceptional reliability. However, it’s not solely about affordability and dependability. These cars are designed to make a bold statement. With sleek contours, aggressive profiles, and captivating aesthetics, they capture attention wherever they go.
So, come along as we explore the exciting world of affordable sports cars that perfectly blend reliability, performance, and driving pleasure. Get ready to unleash your speed without breaking the bank and discover the ideal sports car that will ignite your passion for the open road ahead.
To help provide the best information possible, we collected information from outlets like CarEdge, RepairPal, Kelley Blue Book, and J.D. Power to help provide the most up-to-date information about these models. Car reviews and factory OEM information were used throughout the article to give our readers accurate figures about these reliable sports cars.
Side shot of the 2023 Mazda Miata MX-5 in soul red crystal metallic
With a remarkable 83/100 from J.D. Power, the 2016 Mazda Miata MX-5 stands tall among the top 10 cheap reliable sports cars. Irrespective of your experience level, this power-packed performer leaves a lasting impression. Boasting a swift 0 to 60 mph time of only 6.6 seconds, this compact two-seater exudes spirited energy. Mazda’s renowned expertise in crafting dependable and enjoyable vehicles shines through in the Miata, available in the used market for approximately $19,000 to $20,000.
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $429 (RepairPal)
Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,761 (CarEdge)
Total Recalls: 2
Worst MX-5 Years To Buy Used: 1999 MX-5 Miata (abnormally high oil consumption)
Building upon its iconic status, the 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata pushes the envelope even further. Its 181-horsepower four-cylinder engine, coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox, pays homage to the classic sports cars of yesteryears, making the J.D. Power reliability score of 86/100 even more succinct. While it may not be the ideal choice for daily commutes or long journeys, the Miata offers essential features and a finely-tuned chassis, ensuring an absolute joy on the open road.
9Subaru BRZ
Reliability Score: 73/100
Toyota
Front 3/4 shot of a 2013 Toyota GT86
There are many contenders in the affordable but reliable sports car realm. Enter the Subaru BRZ and its twin, the Toyota 86, providing an exhilarating driving experience at an accessible price point of approximately $18,000. Much like the Miata, the Subaru BRZ effortlessly fulfills the role of a practical daily driver while transforming into an exciting weekend companion. With a J.D. Power reliability score of 73/100 you can own a BRZ with confidence for many years to come.
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $441 (RepairPal)
Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,996 (CarEdge)
Total Recalls: 2
Worst BRZ Years To Buy Used: 2013 Subaru BRZ (Valve spring recall across multiple Subaru models)
Boasting a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.8 seconds, propelled by a 2.0-liter, 200 horsepower engine, and receiving commendable reviews, it seamlessly blends speed and dependability. The Subaru BRZ’s 228 horsepower 2.4-liter flat-four engine delivers ample power, complemented by its low-effort manual transmission and responsive handling, making it an enticing choice for spirited drives. Impressively practical, the BRZ offers interior storage cubbies, rear jump seats, and a reasonably spacious trunk, catering to everyday usability.
8Porsche Boxtser
Reliability Score: 83/100
Porsche
Front 3/4 view of yellow 2007 Porsche Boxster parked.
The 2007 Porsche Boxster, renowned for its exceptional handling, secures a spot among the top 10 cheap reliable sports cars. With a 2.7-liter H6 engine producing 245 horsepower, the Boxster Base delivers an exhilarating 0 to 60-mph sprint in just 5.8 seconds. Despite its 16-year-old age, this Porsche model remains outstanding and dependable in every aspect. Although it has higher average maintenance costs, the 86/100 reliability score from J.D. Power should instill some confidence.
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $824 (RepairPal)
Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $15,670 (CarEdge)
Total Recalls: 2
Worst Boxster Years To Buy Used: 1999 Boxster (Cooling system issues)
Priced under $16,000, it offers an affordable option for enthusiasts. Sharing engines with the Cayman models, including the powerful 295 horsepower, 3.4-liter flat-six in the Boxster S, ensures robust performance. While subtle differences exist, such as compression ratios, these technical details contribute to a captivating driving experience, earning admiration from Porsche enthusiasts.
The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro secures its spot among the top 10 cheap, outrageously reliable sports cars, upholding its legacy of speed and power. With an impressive 4.4-second 0 to 60 mph time, this Camaro delivers thrilling performance at an affordable price of around $20,000. Built on GM’s Zeta full-size platform, it features a fully independent suspension and a modern yet nostalgic design.
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $585 (RepairPal)
Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,015 (CarEdge)
Total Recalls: 3
Worst Camaro Years To Buy Used: 1982 Camaro ‘Iron Duke’ (the least powerful model)
Offering the perfect combination of speed, affordability, and reliability, the 2010 Camaro completes the new-age pony-car trifecta. Its base model impresses with a 304 horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 engine, while the SS variant takes excitement up a notch with a 6.2-liter V-8 under its hood. The Camaro captures attention and delivers an exhilarating driving experience, cementing its status as an impressive contender in the sports car world.
6Ford Mustang
Reliability Score: 88/100
Ford
Front 3/4 view of red 2015 Ford Mustang EcoBoost parked.
The sixth-generation Ford Mustang confidently claims its spot among the top 10 cheap sports cars celebrated for their exceptional reliability. Offering an affordable price tag and minimal annual maintenance costs, this legendary pony car remains accessible to passionate enthusiasts. Notably, even the EcoBoost variant delivers impressive acceleration, achieving a swift 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds.
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $709 (RepairPal)
Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,093 (CarEdge)
Total Recalls: 5
Worst Mustang Years To Buy Used: 2005 Ford Mustang (engine, fuel system, and electrical issues)
As expected from pony cars, the Mustang truly excels when equipped with a manual transmission. Its lively character and performance-oriented essence call for driver engagement through three pedals and a seamless gear shift lever. Embodying the true spirit of a sports car, the Ford Mustang continues to captivate with its reliability, affordability, and unwavering appeal to driving enthusiasts.
5Volkswagen GTI
Reliability Score: 77/100
Volkswagen
Front and side view of a 2017 Volkswagen Golf GTI
Surprisingly another newer car, the MK7 Volkswagen GTI firmly secures its position among the top 10 cheap sports cars known for their outstanding reliability. As part of the renowned Golf lineup, the GTI inherits the global reputation of being one of the best-selling cars. It seamlessly blends reliability, fun, speed, and sportiness in a practical hot hatch that excels as a daily driver. While the base model Golf scores a 77/100 from J.D. Power, the GTI is yet to be rated. However, you can expect the same in terms of overall reliability.
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $791 (RepairPal)
Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,576 (CarEdge)
Total Recalls: 2
Worst GTI Years To Buy Used: 1999 Golf GTI (low power, undesireable)
Impressively, the 2018 Volkswagen Golf GTI achieves a remarkable 0 to 60 mph time of 5.7 seconds, showcasing its prowess on both the road and in everyday driving, free from reliability concerns. Priced below $20,000, the VW Golf GTI offers an accessible entry point into the world of sporty cars, allowing enthusiasts to experience the thrill of driving without compromising on practicality.
A front 3/4 shot of a 2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Z06
Impressively, the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette secures its place among the reliable and affordable sports cars on this list. With its rugged sixth-generation design and powerful V-8 engine, the Corvette delivers an impressive combination of speed and handling. Priced under $17,000, the 2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Coupe offers exceptional value, boasting a staggering 400 horsepower.
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $737 (RepairPal)
Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,714 (CarEdge)
Total Recalls: 0
Worst Corvette Years To Buy Used: 1984 Chevrolet Corvette (automatic transmission issues and bad interior)
It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds, while also earning an excellent reliability rating of 4.7 out of 5 according to Cars.com. General Motors (GM) showcases its ability to compete with Europe’s finest by introducing the 505 horsepower Z06, the fastest Corvette ever produced. The Corvette’s performance and reliability make it a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking an affordable yet thrilling sports car.
3Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Reliability Score: 75/100
Hyundai
Front 3/4 view of red Hyundai Genesis Coupe parked.
The 2010 Hyundai Genesis confidently earns a place on this list of reliable sports cars. The Genesis Coupe of that year provided a spacious cabin for four passengers, featuring a well-preserved interior. Equipped with a robust 3.8-liter V-6 engine, this two-door coupe delivers an impressive 306 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. Owners have highly rated the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe with an impressive reliability score of 4.4 out of 5.
Problems Owners Report: Power steering failure, rough idle
Highest Mileage Reported On CarSurvery: 133,000 miles
Priced at approximately $11,000 today, this car offers an enticing combination of speed, dependability, and affordability. Additionally, the Genesis Coupe’s 2.0T model enhances the lineup with a turbocharged 210 horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, further expanding the options available to enthusiasts.
The 2003 BMW M3 rightfully secures its place among the top 10 cheap sports cars celebrated for their reliability. The BMW M3 E46 is a car that instantly captivates the attention of any gearhead with its iconic name. Recognized for its popularity in video games, racing circuits, and the tuner community, the M3 has become a dream car for passionate enthusiasts. The E46 generation M3 earns a 4.8 out of 5 from KBB giving owners peace of mind over years of driving.
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $1,161 (RepairPal)
Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,219(CarEdge)
Total Recalls: 5
Worst M3 Years To Buy Used: 1997 M3 (Low-quality interior and lackluster engine)
Nowadays, a 2003 BMW M3 can be found for as low as $12,400, offering an affordable yet exhilarating driving experience. Powered by an impressive 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine producing 333 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, the 2003 BMW M3 is not only budget-friendly but also stands as one of the most reliable BMW cars in the pre-owned market. With its exceptional combination of power, performance, and dependability, it presents an outstanding option for those seeking thrilling moments on the road without compromising their financial stability.
The Nissan 350Z confidently secures its spot among the top 10 cheap sports cars renowned for their reliability. This sleek Japanese touring car has become highly affordable, making it a desirable choice for enthusiasts. Powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces an impressive 305 horsepower, the Nissan 350Z offers a great combination of power and affordability, with prices as low as $7,000 in 2023.
Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $452 (RepairPal)
Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $6,157 (CarEdge)
Total Recalls: 1
Worst 350Z Years To Buy Used: 2005 350Z (Oil gallery gaskets cause massive internal oil leaks)
Even after 15 years, it continues to captivate attention on the road, exuding a remarkable presence. With a stellar reliability rating of 81/100 from J.D. Power, the Nissan 350Z proves itself as a sports car you can truly rely on. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to own a vehicle that delivers both thrilling performance and unwavering dependability.
Hyundai is keeping a lot of details about its first electric performance car, the Ioniq 5 N, under wraps. This includes information on price, power, torque, weight, battery size, and even how some of the modes work.
However, after driving the car extensively on both road and track, it’s clear that Hyundai’s N division, known for producing engaging hot hatches, has fully embraced the electric era. The Ioniq 5 N delivers a fun and exciting driving experience like no other electric vehicle I’ve ever encountered.
The Ioniq 5 N is a big and tall crossover that has been reinforced in certain areas, similar to what N did with the i20. It features new suspension subframes and unique kinematics, including enhanced camber, quicker steering, a reinforced steering rack, and four-wheel drive with motors at each end. The car also has the ability to divert power as desired by the driver. Other notable features include 235/35 R21 Pirelli P Zero tires, the largest front brake discs ever fitted by Hyundai (measuring 400mm), and improved battery cooling. N aims to make this car suitable for track driving, with a 20-minute drive and 15-minute charging capability.
In terms of driving modes, the Ioniq 5 N offers a wide range of options. It combines the numerous driving-mode combinations found in the i30 N with all the capabilities of a four-wheel drive electric vehicle, including torque-vectoring and adjustable front-to-rear power distribution. The car even features synthetic engine noises, including one that mimics an internal combustion engine, along with a simulated tachometer and gearshift via steering-mounted paddles. An engineer sitting beside the driver prevented the use of the drift mode during the drive, highlighting that the Ioniq 5 N offers more than just silliness. It provides exceptional dynamic performance. This car represents a significant advancement in the fun and enjoyment of electric vehicles, far exceeding what was possible in the previous year’s big EV handling test. While the Kia EV6 GT finished third in that test, the Ioniq 5 N has raised the bar by delivering genuine performance-car capabilities.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
