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Enthusiasts Prefer These Gas Cars To EVs

Madison Clark

Madison Clark

The automotive landscape is increasingly dominated by electric vehicles, known for their smooth acceleration and modern technology. Despite this shift, many drivers still find that traditional gas-powered cars offer a unique driving experience that electrics have yet to fully replicate.

This article explores gas cars that remain more engaging and enjoyable to drive than many electric models. It highlights why certain aspects of gas vehicles continue to appeal, focusing on factors like engine sound, handling, and driving dynamics.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

A gray Mazda MX-5 Miata with a California license plate is parked at a car meet. The sports car has sleek headlights, black alloy wheels, and a low stance. Other vehicles, including a red Mitsubishi 3000GT and a black off-road SUV, are visible in the background
Image Credit:Yaktatel -Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata remains a benchmark for lightweight, engaging sports cars. Its balance, manual transmission options, and responsive handling create a driving experience that many find more involving than electric vehicles.

While Mazda is developing an electric version, the current gas-powered Miata offers a raw, mechanical connection to the road. Its simplicity and driver feedback appeal to enthusiasts seeking fun beyond instant torque and quiet operation.

Porsche 911 Carrera

Dark gray Porsche 911 Carrera with license plate 1100 HMY parked on race track with cloudy sky background
Image Credit: David Villarreal Fernández – CC BY-SA 2.0/Wiki Commons.

The Porsche 911 Carrera remains a benchmark for driving dynamics with its flat-six engine. It delivers a precise and engaging experience that electric vehicles often struggle to replicate.

Its nimble handling and classic design continue to appeal to enthusiasts who value connection to the road.

Unlike many electric cars that prioritize straight-line speed, the 911 excels in balance and driver feedback. This makes it a lasting favorite for those seeking traditional sports car enjoyment.

Ford Mustang GT

Blue 2025 Ford Mustang GT sports car parked on concrete surface with other vehicles and building in background
Image Credit: Alexander Migl – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Ford Mustang GT offers a traditional muscle car experience with a V8 engine and distinctive exhaust notes. It provides a driving feel that electric vehicles cannot replicate due to its raw power delivery and mechanical engagement.

Owners appreciate its handling and sound, which contribute to a more connected driving experience. Despite its lower fuel efficiency compared to many other cars, the Mustang GT remains a favorite among enthusiasts seeking classic performance.

Chevrolet Camaro SS

Yellow Chevrolet Camaro SS sports car parked on asphalt near green metal fence with hood vents and alloy wheels
Image Credit: Peter.shaman – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Chevrolet Camaro SS is known for its powerful V8 engine, delivering strong acceleration and a classic muscle car experience. It offers a balance of performance and handling that appeals to driving enthusiasts.

Compared to many electric cars, the Camaro SS provides a more visceral connection to the road through its engine sound and manual transmission options. This makes it a favorite for those who prioritize traditional driving dynamics.

Subaru WRX STI

Blue Subaru WRX STI sports sedan with black wheels and rear spoiler parked on road beside rural countryside fence
Image Credit: Motor Verso – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

The Subaru WRX STI is known for its sharp handling and balanced driving dynamics. Its performance is aided by a lightweight design and a well-tuned all-wheel-drive system.

While Subaru plans to release electric models, the WRX STI’s connection to precise steering and tire feedback remains unmatched by current EVs. This makes it a preferred choice for driving enthusiasts seeking traditional road engagement.

BMW M3 E46

Red BMW M3 E46 at outdoor car show with classic and modern vehicles on grass field
Image Credit: Jeremy – CC BY 2.0/Wiki Commons.

The BMW M3 E46 delivers a driving experience prized for its connected steering and mechanical feel. It is lighter and more raw compared to later models, offering a stiffer clutch and gearbox that require skill to operate properly.

Many drivers find it more involving and rewarding than modern alternatives. Its balance of usability and engagement makes it a favored choice among enthusiasts.

Toyota Supra Mk4

Toyota Supra Mk4 which has smooth curves, rounded headlights, five-spoke alloy wheels, and an aerodynamic front bumper, representing the iconic 1990s Japanese sports car design
Image Credit: Ahmadfhatonii – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Toyota Supra Mk4, or A80, is known for its robust 2JZ-GTE engine. It delivers strong performance, with turbo models producing significantly more power than the base 220-horsepower versions.

It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 4 seconds, which was competitive for its era. The car handles modifications well, allowing enthusiasts to tune it for high horsepower while maintaining driveability.

The Supra Mk4’s balance of power and mechanical simplicity offers a driving experience that some find more engaging than electric vehicles.

Nissan 370Z

White Nissan 370Z with silver alloy wheels displayed indoors on dark floor under showroom lighting
Image Credit: Thomas doerfer – CC BY-SA 3.0/Wiki Commons.

The Nissan 370Z delivers a classic sports car experience focused on driver engagement. It features a powerful V6 engine and precise handling that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a direct connection with the road.

While electric vehicles offer instant torque, the 370Z provides a more traditional feel with manual transmission options. Its design and driving dynamics continue to attract those who value spirited driving over electric alternatives.

Honda S2000

A silver Honda S2000 with aftermarket wheels is parked at an outdoor car event in Bahrain. A crowd of casually dressed people is in the background, along with several high-end cars. Sunlight reflects off the car’s hood, creating a bright glare
Image Credit: Mohammed Hamad – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Honda S2000 is known for its high-revving engine and sharp handling. Its naturally aspirated inline-four delivers a unique driving experience that emphasizes driver engagement over raw straight-line speed.

Owners often praise its balanced chassis and precise steering, which contribute to a feeling akin to driving a motorcycle on four wheels. This focus on driving dynamics sets it apart from many electric cars.

Dodge Challenger R/T

Red 2023 Dodge Challenger R/T sports car parked in lot with black hood stripes and modern styling
Image Credit: Alexander Migl – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Dodge Challenger R/T features a traditional V8 engine that appeals to enthusiasts who value engine sound and mechanical feel. It offers strong acceleration with a balance of power and control.

While electric models bring instant torque, the Challenger R/T delivers a driving experience rooted in classic muscle car design. Its connection between driver and machine remains a key factor in its appeal.

Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk7

White Volkswagen Golf GTI with lowered suspension and dark wheels driving on road with motion blur background
Image Credit: Dinkun Chen – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Golf GTI Mk7 remains a favorite among driving enthusiasts for its balance of performance and practicality. It offers a responsive turbocharged engine and sharp handling that many find engaging compared to electric alternatives.

Drivers appreciate the manual transmission option, which enhances the connection to the car. While electric torque delivery is instant, the Mk7’s driving dynamics and engine sound provide a more traditional enthusiast experience. Its versatility as a hatchback adds to its appeal.

Audi S4 B8

Silver Audi S4 B8 with large alloy wheels parked in dealership lot with Audi signage visible in background
Image Credit: OSX – Public Domain/Wiki Commons.

The Audi S4 B8 offers a balanced mix of performance and daily usability. It features a responsive V6 engine with smooth power delivery, making it enjoyable to drive.

While fuel economy is not as efficient as modern electric vehicles, the S4 provides a driving experience that many enthusiasts appreciate. Its handling and steering are often praised for precision and feel.

The interior received updates in 2013, improving comfort and design, though some find it less refined compared to newer models. Overall, it remains a compelling choice for those who value engaging driving dynamics.

Chevrolet Corvette C7

Red Chevrolet Corvette C7 sports car with black aerodynamic elements displayed on grass at outdoor car show
Image Credit: Calreyn88 – CC BY-SA 4.0/Wiki Commons.

The Chevrolet Corvette C7 offers a balance of performance and everyday usability. It features a powerful V8 engine that delivers strong acceleration and responsive handling.

While the C7 is generally fun to drive, some early models experienced minor reliability issues. Later versions improved, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts seeking an engaging gasoline sports car. It’s available automatic transmission includes paddle shifters, enhancing driving enjoyment in traffic without sacrificing the sporty feel.

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