9 Sports Cars That Are Surprisingly Reliable (And 3 That Will Bankrupt You)
Most men have dreamed of being behind the wheel of their dream sports cars. They are often seen as the ultimate sign of “cool,” but most people assume that owning a sports car can be costly. That’s not always true. Like most other types of vehicles, there are some reliable models out there. If you want a great-looking car in your driveway, here are nine of the most reliable sports cars (and three I’d avoid).
9 of the Most Reliable Sports Cars Out There
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
I had a Miata for years and I loved it. It was incredibly reliable. The Mazda Miata has earned a cult following for its reliability and affordability. It’s simple, lightweight, and engineered to last well beyond 100,000 miles. Owners rave about its low maintenance costs and surprisingly good fuel efficiency for a sports car. With minimal electronics and a manual transmission option, there’s less that can go wrong. Even older models from the ’90s continue to perform with routine upkeep.
2. Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ
These twins offer the perfect balance of performance and dependability. Built on a shared platform, they feature a naturally aspirated engine that has proven reliable over the years. While not the fastest cars on the road, their fun factor is undeniable. They also score high in consumer satisfaction and safety ratings. On top of that, parts are affordable, and most repairs are simple to perform.
3. Porsche 911 (996 and 997 Generations)
This would be my personal choice. Surprisingly, older Porsche 911 models—especially the 996 and 997—are more reliable than many expect. When properly maintained, these cars can exceed 150,000 miles with relatively few major issues. They also have a solid reputation among mechanics and enthusiasts for their durable engines and quality parts. Just make sure to check for known issues like IMS bearing failures and get them addressed early.
4. Lexus RC F
The RC F brings Lexus luxury and reliability into the performance world. Its naturally aspirated V8 is a masterpiece that offers strong performance with Toyota-grade dependability. Owners praise its solid build, minimal issues, and smooth ride. Maintenance is more affordable than European rivals in the same category. It may be heavier than other sports cars, but it holds up well over time.
5. Honda S2000
This beloved roadster from Honda blends high-revving excitement with trademark Japanese reliability. The engine, transmission, and suspension are all built to last, with many examples surpassing 200,000 miles. It’s a driver-focused car with minimal tech distractions, which keeps repairs simple. Additionally, parts are still widely available, and it holds value remarkably well.
6. Chevrolet Corvette C6
The C6 Corvette delivers big-time power with impressive dependability. Its LS3 V8 engine is known for durability and ease of maintenance. Many owners report minimal issues even after years of spirited driving. The interior may not be luxury-level, but the performance-to-cost ratio is hard to beat. Parts are plentiful and relatively affordable for a sports car.
7. Acura NSX (First Generation)
The original NSX was built with precision engineering and Honda’s reliability in mind. Its mid-engine layout and exotic looks are matched by daily-driver practicality. Maintenance costs are reasonable compared to European rivals, and the engine is famously long-lasting. Many examples have aged gracefully with proper care.
8. BMW Z4 (E85/E86 Generations)
Not all BMWs are costly to maintain—the early Z4s prove that. These models have solid inline-six engines that are both strong and long-lasting. Basic maintenance goes a long way in keeping these roadsters running smoothly. They’re fun to drive, stylish, and generally free from major electronic issues that plague newer BMWs.
9. Audi TT (First Generation)
The original Audi TT is often overlooked, but it’s surprisingly reliable for a sporty coupe. With its VW-sourced 1.8L turbo engine, it shares many parts with more common vehicles. Repairs are generally affordable, and parts availability is excellent. It also offers all-wheel drive, making it a year-round sports car in many climates.
3 That Will Bankrupt You
1. Jaguar F-Type
While it’s gorgeous and exhilarating to drive, the Jaguar F-Type can be a maintenance nightmare. Owners frequently report electrical issues, transmission problems, and steep repair costs. Even basic services can be expensive at luxury-brand dealers. Reliability ratings are inconsistent across model years. If you’re considering one, a detailed pre-purchase inspection is essential. Even then, I wouldn’t recommend buying the Jag.
2. Maserati GranTurismo
The Maserati GranTurismo offers Italian flair and a beautiful exhaust note—but at a cost. Its Ferrari-derived engine may sound amazing, but it’s complex and costly to maintain. Repairs can run into the thousands, and reliability is not its strong suit. Electronics are another common pain point. Parts are hard to source and expensive, even for minor fixes. It’s best reserved for those with deep pockets and a reliable backup car.
3. BMW M5 (E60 Generation)
The E60 M5 features a high-revving V10 that’s thrilling but notoriously expensive to repair. The engine is prone to rod bearing failure, SMG transmission issues, and expensive electronic glitches. Even basic maintenance can break the bank. It’s a car that demands constant attention and premium service. Despite its performance, many owners regret the ownership costs. It’s just best to steer clear of this one.
Choose Speed and Sanity
Sports cars have a reputation for being pricey to keep up, but there are plenty of reliable models out there. You just need to do your research before buying. Look into how dependable the vehicle you are interested in has been for other drivers. If you’re buying used, look for well-maintained cars and avoid anything that has a poor reliability record. When you do all of this, you can find the perfect sports car that is fast and know it won’t leave you stranded.
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.