The 2000s was a transformative decade for sports cars, blending technological advancements with distinctive design. During this period, manufacturers pushed the limits of performance, engineering, and style, creating models that still resonate with enthusiasts today.
This article highlights 12 sports cars that defined the 2000s by showcasing innovation, driving experience, and lasting influence on the automotive world. These vehicles represent key trends and achievements that shaped the sports car landscape for years to come.
Ferrari Testarossa
The Ferrari Testarossa was introduced in 1984 as a successor to the 512 BBi. It features a 12-cylinder mid-engine layout, which became a defining characteristic of Ferrari’s design during that era.
This model quickly gained recognition for its distinct side strakes and wide rear track. It remained in production until the early 1990s, with over 7,000 units built.
The Testarossa holds significance as one of Ferrari’s most successful 12-cylinder models, influencing sports car design and culture in the 1980s and beyond.
Porsche 911 GT3 Touring (991.2)
The Porsche 911 GT3 Touring (991.2) offers a focused driving experience without the distraction of a large rear wing. It combines the mechanical precision of the GT3 with a more understated appearance.
This model features a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, delivering strong performance and sharp handling. It caters to enthusiasts who value driving purity and subtle design cues.
BMW M3 E30
The BMW M3 E30 is a high-performance version of the 3 Series, developed by BMW’s motorsport division. It was produced in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
This model is known for its sharp handling and lightweight design. It laid the groundwork for the M3’s reputation as a sports car icon.
The E30 M3 was also prominent in racing, which helped refine its performance and engineering during its production years.
Toyota GR Supra
The Toyota GR Supra, relaunched in 2019, represents a modern revival of the Supra name. It combines a strong performance focus with refined design elements inspired by Toyota’s racing heritage.
This fifth-generation model features a powerful engine and agile handling. It balances everyday usability with capabilities that appeal to sports car enthusiasts. The design maintains a long nose and compact cabin, reflecting classic influences without being retro.
Dodge Viper
The Dodge Viper, produced from 1992 to 2017, was a notable sports car in the 2000s. Its second generation, running from 2003 to 2010, introduced safety features like airbags and improved suspension systems.
It offered powerful performance, with later models producing up to 640 horsepower. This made it competitive with other high-performance cars of the decade. Despite some criticism of its styling, the Viper remained a symbol of American sports car engineering.
Mercedes C63 AMG Black Series
The Mercedes C63 AMG Black Series is a high-performance variant of the C-Class. It features a powerful V8 engine paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
The car has an adjustable suspension and a wider track for improved handling. It can reach a top speed of approximately 173 mph and accelerate to 60 mph quickly.
Known for its aggressive design and track-focused engineering, the C63 AMG Black Series remains popular among enthusiasts.
Plymouth Superbird
The Plymouth Superbird was designed specifically for NASCAR racing in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its aerodynamic shape and distinctive rear wing helped improve high-speed stability.
Though its racing career was brief, the Superbird became an iconic muscle car. It remains notable for its bold design and performance focus.
Ferrari F355
The Ferrari F355 was produced from 1994 to 1999 and remains a highly regarded model. It featured a 3.5-liter V8 engine capable of accelerating to 100 km/h in about 4.7 seconds.
Its precise handling and distinctive design made it stand out among sports cars of the 1990s. The limited-edition Serie Fiorano variant offered enhanced braking and suspension for improved performance.
The F355 remains popular for its combination of classic Ferrari styling with modern engineering refinements.
Lamborghini Miura
The Lamborghini Miura is widely recognized as the car that defined the modern supercar. It introduced a mid-engine layout paired with a transverse V-12, a novel configuration at the time.
This design gave the Miura superior balance and performance. The shift linkage placement enhanced driving precision, making it a pioneer in sports car engineering.
Though originating in the late 1960s, its influence persisted into the 2000s as a standard for high-performance vehicles. It remains one of Lamborghini’s most collectible and valuable models.
Chevrolet Corvette C2
The Chevrolet Corvette C2, produced from 1963 to 1967, is renowned for its sharp styling and improved performance. It introduced the iconic Sting Ray design, which significantly influenced sports car aesthetics.
This generation offered advanced features for its time, such as independent rear suspension and powerful V8 engines. The Corvette C2 remains a benchmark in American sports car history.
Mazda RX-7 FD
The Mazda RX-7 FD was produced between 1992 and 2002. It is known for its lightweight design and use of a twin-rotor rotary engine.
The FD model is praised for its sharp handling and balanced chassis. It was sold in the U.S. primarily from 1993 to 1995.
This generation remains a symbol of precision engineering and continues to influence sports car design today.
Nissan Skyline GT-R R34
The Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 was produced from 1998 to 2002. It featured advanced technology, including a multifunction display that provided real-time data on the car’s performance.
Powered by the RB26DETT engine, the R34 balanced power and handling efficiently. Its design and engineering efforts made it a notable sports car of the 2000s, influencing automotive performance and tuning culture worldwide.