My first sports car was a 1984 Toyota Supra. It leaked 3 liters of oil per half hour when i bought it. After tearing the engine appart and replacing all the seals it ran lie a dream. It only had 150 hp from a straight six, but somehow it felt fast. It was a very well balanced car. I also like the Acura NSX, and the last RX-7. I like the idea of the rotary engine. Its a shame more cars don't use it. Its power to size/weight ratio is unsurpassed, however it still has problems which have not been worked out.
I beg to differ with the general opinion that American cars are shit. I notice most of those that beleive so are not from the US. Most probably have not seen recent American cars upclose, let alone driven one. Currently I drive a 1996 Chevrolet Camaro z-28, it boasts not only a 0-60mph 5.4 sec, but also a .89~.90g on the skidpad, and a 600ft slalom speed of 67 mph STOCK from the factory. Thats from an 11 year old car. In comparison, a 2004 VW Golf R32, has a 600ft slalom of 66.5 mph, and .87g on the skidpad. Also, it costs $3,000.00 more than the 2002 camaro (last model produced). The last Evo does .90g on the skidpad and the MSRP: $28,679 - $35,180. These "economy" sports cars are neither better nor cheaper than American sports cars, they are just built to a different standard. In the US we like a large displacement, v-8 powered, 2 door, rear wheel drive, tiny back seat, sports cars. It's just a matter of taste. But don't ever say American cars don't perform!! And the Corvettes are not the "only diamond in a pile of shite." Next time, do a little research, before insulting others.
Finally, for those that would argue that you can take a $20,000 dollar civic and make it outperform a corvette, a camaro, or a mustang, I'll say: If I pumped 10 grand into my 10 year old z-28, it would outperform most Ferraris.
* This post has been modified
: 19 years ago