Dreaming of a sports car? Hold on! Not all are created equal. This list dives into 15 seemingly desirable rides that can turn into maintenance nightmares, budget busters, or performance disappointments. Swipe through before you rev your engine into the wrong choice.

Toyota MR2 Spyder

Once hailed as a budget-friendly sports car, the Toyota MR2 Spyder now ranks among the worst due to its uninspiring handling and outdated design. While its mid-engine layout may appeal to some, its transmission issues that plagued the model and low aftermarket support make it a car to avoid.

Pontiac Fiero

When the Pontiac Fiero hit the market in 1984, it was supposed to be an instant hit, considering that it was marketed as a lightweight, sporty coupe. Yet, the project didn’t pick up as expected, with the car facing paramount reliability and mechanical issues. The Fiero brand took a significant hit when some earlier models caught fire. 

Chrysler Crossfire

The Chrysler Crossfire is undoubtedly a good-looking car, with an aerodynamic body that one would think offers much when cruising on the roads. Sadly, however, the Crossfire fails to deliver the exhilarating driving experience expected of a sports car. From its sluggish acceleration to its lackluster handling and poorly done interior, this collaboration between Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz falls short of expectations.

Nissan 350Z

While the Nissan 350Z may have garnered praise in its heyday, and it’s still pretty sturdy, it’s not one of the esports cars that we’d recommend. The sports car was riddled with several problems, including a stalling engine, throttle body issues, and a failing navigation unit, and it’s not a go-to for any car enthusiast.

Ford Mustang II

A black mark in the Mustang lineage, the Ford Mustang II fails to capture the essence of its predecessors with its lackluster performance and uninspired design. From its underpowered engine options to its lack of driving dynamics, this forgotten pony car falls short of the iconic status of its predecessors.

Subaru BRZ (2013)

For the most part, the Subaru BRZ has received loads of praise for its engaging driving experience. Still,the 2013 model was riddled with so many engine and transmission problems that if you have to purchase a BRZ, skip this specific year.

Mitsubishi Eclipse

Once a beloved sports car, the Mitsubishi Eclipse has become a crossover vehicle. While you can still get an Eclipse sportscar, you’re better off looking elsewhere unless you want to deal with some poor grip and engine component failure issues.

Volkswagen Corrado

The Volkswagen company is known for its reliable, fast cars, but when they produced the Volkswagen Corrado, every car enthusiast agreed that they’d dropped the ball. This sportscar was intended to take the market by storm, but sadly, the engine had reliability issues, which meant that only about 18,000 units of the car made it to the US.

Acura RSX

Despite its sporty image, the Acura RSX disappoints with its compromised power braking, engine oil leaks, and uninspired handling. While it’s said to be reliable, some of these performance problems might hinder you from thoroughly enjoying the RSX.

Plymouth Prowler

A retro-inspired oddity, the Plymouth Prowler falls short of its promise with its poor interior and impractical design. The car was incredibly uncomfortable to drive, had a weak engine, and did not come with a manual transmission option. With all the drawbacks, it’s not surprising that only 20,000 pieces were ever sold.

Mazda RX-8

Regarding aesthetics, the engine, and the price, the Mazda RX-8 is a good car. However, it’s rare to find a perfect sports car, and the Mazda has its fair share of problems, from poor mileage to poor performance in the wet and high maintenance costs. One is better off looking for better options.

Alfa Romeo 4C

Despite its exotic looks, the Alfa Romeo 4C did not meet expectations with its bad steering and harsh ride quality. The car is an undoubted beauty but offers a less-than-desirable driving experience.

Fiat 124 Spider

While the Fiat 124 Spider may evoke nostalgia with its retro-inspired design, it hugely underperforms in handling and consumption, and the interior is not one that’ll have you thrilled.

Audi TT

Considering its premium badge, one would think that the Audi TT would epitomize sportscars’ thrill driving. Unfortunately, the earlier generations of the model had numerous drawbacks, including leaking fuel tanks, engine failures, and faulty airbags. It is also quite costly to repair a TT, so if you opt for one, be ready to splash a lot of money.

Mini Cooper S

While the Mini Cooper S may offer charming compact styling, its engine problems and cramped interior land it on our list of worst sports cars. The ride is known to have electrical faults, transmission, steering, and timing chain issues, which are expensive to fix.