10. Audi TT Coupe
The Audi TT is now in its third generation yet is unmistakably a direct descendant of the original concept-car-turned-reality that made the original such a big hit. It’s great to drive, especially if you go for the 310bhp TTS model, and has room in the back for two extra passengers, albeit smaller ones – you’ll get the kids in there, but it might be a struggle if its your friends…
9. Lotus Evora
Practicality and Lotus aren’t usually good bedfellows, but the Evora coupe does offer a little bit if extra space in the rear – enough for a couple of seats that allow you to travel four-up. Throw in the sports car maker’s legendary amazing handling and supercar-baiting performance and you’re guaranteed driving thrills, though those in the back may be a bit squished!
8. BMW i8
With its plug-in electric hybrid system, the i8 is the environmentally conscious choice in this segment of the car market. But it also has charms in reserve – as well as low running costs, helped by its alternative drivetrain, its relatively long wheelbase allows a surprising amount of passenger space behind the front seats. The kids will love it, and so will you…
7. BMW M2
The M2 is the smallest car in the BMW M Performance range, yet it’s also one of the best. Based on the 2-Series coupe, which offers just about enough room for two adults in the back, it features a 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six with 365bhp on tap and 500Nm of torque. Its beefy arches, deep front splitter and sculpted side skirts mark it out as something special, which it most certainly is from behind the wheel…
6. Nissan GT-R
The GT-R is one of the most practical high-performance cars on the market, being based on a large coupe with room for two adults in the rear. Yet the spacious body shouldn’t detract from its incredible performance – it has tenacious grip thanks to its four-wheel-drive set-up and an eye-watering 562bhp from its twin-turbo V6.
5. Maserati GranTurismo
If you want performance with a fine helping of finesse, then the Maserati GranTurismo has both of those in spades. Beautifully executed inside and out, the Maserati is a true four-seater, as well as a car that really appeals to your emotions. There are other sports cars that are faster and sharper to drive, but there are none that ooze the same amount of suave, sophisticated and stylish appeal.
4. Subaru BRZ
It’s five years old now, but we still love the BR-Z – a proper 2+2 coupe with stacks of driver appeal. The cabin is a bit cheap and cheerless, but the performance, handling and value for money are impossible to argue with, though the rear seats aren’t for larger or bulkier types. The Subaru is essentially the same car as the Toyota GT86, but the quirky appeal of the Subaru badge will make the BR-Z appeal more to some.
3. Toyota GT86
The Toyota GT86 is no different from the Subaru BRZ in terms of its handling, performance or compact but usable rear seat accommodation. But it edges the Subaru because of Toyota’s wider dealer network and better availability. Both cars come with a five-year warranty, but the Toyota will be easier to get serviced. For some, the exclusivity of the Subaru badge will edge it, but to Japanese car fans the GT86 name has a cachet of its own.
2. Ford Mustang
There are very few sports cars, or cars full-stop, that offer as much performance per pound as the 5.0-litre V8 Mustang. Being an American model, the ‘Stang also comes with immense practicality – the rear seats are big enough for adults, and the boot is big, too. Of course, you might expect a big American car to be deficient in the handling stakes, but the Mustang has a surprise in store – it’s great to drive, too. And the sound that comes from that V8…
1. Porsche 911
All of the cars in this list have loads of appeal, but there’s one sports car that stands out above all others, and continues to do so even in this company thanks to its cosy but usable rear seats. The Porsche 911 is and always has been a truly great sports car, and the latest Turbo model (991 in Porsche enthusiast parlance) is as good as ever. Wonderful to drive, beautifully built and stunning to look at, it’s expensive but worth every penny.
