Sports cars, nearly as old as cars themselves, were initially designed to bring the thrill of early racing machines to everyday drivers.

Over time, the definition of a sports car has expanded widely, encompassing everything from hot hatchbacks to focused track machines. However, for this list, we'll focus on full-sized, sophisticated vehicles that offer powerful acceleration and precise handling suitable for both road and track.

While having more than two seats isn't excluded, we prioritize cars that prioritize performance over practicality. These cars typically fall in the price range of £60,000 to £150,000, distinguishing them from supercars while allowing for some flexibility in pricing.

1. Porsche 911

Pros: This car gives you a great balance of usefulness with four seats, appeal for drivers, and the most power and speed you can afford.

Cons: It's often found alongside more unusual sports cars.

Porsche's latest-generation 911 (the 992) has expanded significantly since its debut in 2019. It now includes various models: the 380bhp Carrera and Carrera T, the 444bhp Carrera S, and the 473bhp Carrera GTS, all equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged flat-six engine.

These models come in coupé, Cabriolet (cloth-top convertible), and Targa (folding fixed-head) body styles, with options for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Transmission choices range from an eight-speed dual-clutch PDK automatic to a seven-speed manual gearbox. Higher-performance variants like the Turbo, Turbo S, GT3, and GT3 RS offer even greater speed, alongside special limited-edition versions such as the 911 Dakar and 911 S/T.

2. BMW M2 Coupé

Pros: This car offers an excellent combination of power, spaciousness, compact design, usability, and an appealing price point.

Cons: While this car excels in many areas, it's noted that in the manual version, particularly in right-hand-drive models, the pedal layout can detract from the fun factor that earlier iterations offered.

When BMW's M division decided to take the modern BMW M4 sports coupé mechanics and wrap them in a shorter, slightly lighter shell, they created a winning recipe for the current BMW M2. Previous concerns about technical shortcomings were dispelled as the car grew slightly larger and heavier, gaining integrity, maturity, and a sense of completeness befitting a modern M car, earning it a top spot in its class.

With pricing that lets you drive off the lot for under £70,000, the M2 strikes a perfect balance of power, space, and affordability. It delivers a vivid driving experience that's rewarding and perfectly sized for enthusiasts seeking genuine driver engagement.

3. Lotus Emira

Pros: The Lotus Emira boasts a supremely poised chassis, incredibly responsive steering that provides ample feedback, and a level of driver involvement that is unmatched by most other cars.

Cons: The four-cylinder engine in the Lotus Emira may feel somewhat inadequate, and it doesn't offer the same ease of daily usability as a Porsche 911 or 718 Cayman.

The Lotus Emira marks the final chapter for internal combustion engines at Lotus, and it carries a significant weight of expectation. Fortunately, this newcomer from Norfolk excels in many areas, combining exotic looks with a chassis that upholds Lotus's decades-long tradition of handling greatness from Hethel.

There are innovations for Lotus with an interior boasting unprecedented levels of luxury and quality, along with the latest tech gadgets. It's also surprisingly practical, offering easier access and more storage than the older Evora, making it a viable option for daily use.

Lykkers, now that you've explored these exceptional sports cars, from the enduring Porsche 911 to the spirited BMW M2 and the innovative Lotus Emira, we'd love to hear from you.

What are your thoughts on these vehicles' capabilities and their place in today's sports car landscape? Share your opinions and experiences with us, and let's continue the conversation on what makes these cars truly special. Your feedback enriches our discussion and helps us delve deeper into the world of automotive excellence.