Other sports cars
Nissan GT-R
MSRP: $111,585
Doesn’t matter what you call it — GT-R or, more fittingly, Godzilla — Nissan’s range topper is a supercar-stomping, high-tech dynamo. Its 3.8-liter twin-turbo V-6 makes a mighty 565 hp while a six-speed dual-clutch automatic and all-wheel drive team up to put all that power to the pavement. The GT-R’s quick steering, rigid structure and adjustable suspension can make even amateurs feel positively heroic from behind the wheel. Want more? Check out the track-ready NISMO-tuned variant with 600 hp.
Maserati GranTurismo
MSRP: $134,625
Maserati’s GranTurismo offers something extraordinary in a high-performance, sixfigure coupe or convertible, one that embodies all that is compelling and irresistible about Italian cars. The exterior has curves in all the right places; the interior is lavishly appointed. There is an amazing, 454-hp 4.7-liter V-8 that is good for sub-5.0-second 0-60 runs. The droptop adds weight and lacks the coupe’s stiffness and response, but still looks fabulous.
Aston Martin Vantage
MSRP: $153,081
Gorgeous and supremely athletic, the Vantage is the entry-level Aston Martin, if there’s such a thing. But there’s nothing basic about this stunning British sports car, with its looks to kill and a 503-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8. An eight-speed automatic is the sole transmission; a seven-speed manual is coming. An electronically controlled limited-slip differential and adaptive dampers are standard. The exterior theatrics continue inside with upscale materials and countless custom options.
Audi R8
MSRP: $139,950
Audi’s luscious R8 coupe and convertible are beautiful to behold, easy to live with, and simply marvelous to drive — everything you’d want in a sports car. The R8 is powered by a 540-hp 5.2-liter V-10; the V10 Plus makes 610 hp. All-wheel drive is standard as is a seven-speed automatic; a limited-edition rear-wheel-drive model is available. The handsome interior features a 12.3-inch configurable display in lieu of traditional gauges; there is also 4G LTE connectivity and Wi-Fi hotspot capability.