The automotive world is constantly changing, but some cars leave an indelible mark on history, destined to be the future classics. These beauties from modern times combine state-of-the-art technology with fabulous designs and exceptional performances. This is a review of 22 modern classics:
Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND) – 2015
The fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata represents everything a true driver’s car should be—light, nimble, and endlessly fun. Its 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G engine produces 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. Weighing just over 2,300 lbs, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 135 mph. Despite its small size, the Miata is highly reliable. A testament to its longevity, Miata enthusiasts frequently hold rallies to celebrate their vehicles.
Porsche 911 (992) – 2019
The Porsche 911 has always been an icon, and the 992 generation, introduced in 2019, takes its legacy even further. Its base model is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine that produces 379 hp, and the Turbo S variant will deliver a staggering 640 hp. It sprints from 0-60 mph in just 2.6 seconds and boasts a top speed of 205 mph. The 992 is known for its attention to detail in the build quality. Fun fact: To assemble each 911, Porsche employs more than 700 robots to achieve precision and consistency.
Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 – 2016
The Shelby GT350 was launched in 2016 as one of the most track-focused Mustangs Ford has ever built. It is equipped with a 5.2-liter V8 with a flat-plane crankshaft, which produces 526 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque. The GT350 goes from zero to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of 180 mph. It’s hand-built with its engine mated to a six-speed manual, but purists will like this aspect. Considering its solid engineering, such an aggressive-looking car is remarkably reliable for a daily driver.
Toyota 86 – 2012
Co-developed by Toyota and Subaru, the Toyota 86 and its twin, the Subaru BRZ, launched in 2012 to widespread acclaim. The Toyota 86 is a pure, analog driver’s car powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine with 200 hp. Its 0-60 mph time of 6.4 seconds doesn’t look particularly impressive on paper, but its lightweight chassis and rear-wheel-drive setup make it an absolute joy to drive. Many 86s serve as drift cars and track toys, surviving years of abuse due to their durability.
Tesla Model S – 2012
The Tesla Model S, launched in 2012, transformed the EV market. Featuring a dual-motor power train, the model has the option of delivering as much as 1,020 horsepower in its Plaid model and can rocket from 0-60 mph in 1.99 seconds while reaching a mileage range of more than 400 miles with a single charge, based on configuration. The Model S is incredibly reliable due to fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio – 2016
The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio debuted in 2016, immediately setting new standards for performance sedans. Its Ferrari-derived 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 produces 505 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 191 mph. Despite its reputation as a temperamental vehicle, the Giulia Quadrifoglio has become relatively reliable if given proper care.
2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray (C8)
The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray has an LT2 6.2-liter V8 that pushes 495 horses, shoots from 0-60 mph in only 2.9 seconds, and reaches a top of 194 mph. Due to the mid-engine layout, weight distribution should be significantly better for responsive handling. The C8 is the epitome of reliability and affordable price, offering performance with supercars at one-twentieth the cost. Chevrolet’s engineers tested the C8 in temperatures ranging from -40°F to 130°F to ensure it lasts as long as it promises.
Jaguar F-Type – 2013
Jaguar first took the wraps off its successor to the iconic E-Type in 2013- the F-Type. The car offers many engine options, including a 296 hp turbocharged four-cylinder to a 575 hp supercharged V8. A V8 model can take 3.5 seconds for 0-60 mph and up to 186 mph in top speed. The exhaust system of the F-Type has been engineered to produce this crackling-on overrun and is one of the more satisfying cars to listen to.
BMW M2 Competition – 2019
The BMW M2 Competition is a 2019 compact powerhouse featuring a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six engine that produces 405 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4 seconds and has a top speed of 174 mph. The M2 is made from high-strength steel and aluminum and is incredibly strong, so it is very popular among track and street users.
Audi RS5 Sportback – 2018
2018 Audi unveiled its practical take on raw performance: RS5 Sportback. This automobile delivers 444 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque from its 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine and accelerates from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.8 seconds. The top speed goes up to 174 mph if one wants to put a premium on the optional Dynamic Plus package. But the Quattro all-wheel-drive system helps this high-performance machine hold on even in all adverse weather conditions. Audi claims the RS5’s virtual cockpit display was inspired by jet fighter cockpits, giving drivers a high-tech edge on the road.
Dodge Challenger SRT Demon – 2017
The Dodge Challenger SRT Demon stormed onto the scene in 2017 as the ultimate drag-strip monster. Its supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 produces an insane 840 hp on race fuel, enabling it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in a scorching 2.3 seconds—the fastest production car at its launch. Notwithstanding its performance pedigree, Dodge engineered the Demon for everyday reliability with a tough cooling system and reinforced drivetrain.
Honda Civic Type R (FK8) – 2017
Honda’s 2017 Civic Type R rewrote the hot hatchback playbook with razor-sharp handling and track-focused performance. It comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, producing 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The car sprints to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and tops at 169 mph. But the Type R is just as reliable on a daily commute as it is on a racetrack: bulletproof. Fun fact: The Civic Type R has set multiple front-wheel-drive lap records at legendary race tracks like Nürburgring Nordschleife and Spa-Francorchamps.
Mercedes-AMG GT – 2015
The Mercedes-AMG GT debuted in 2015 and comes with a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering up to 720 horsepower in the Black Series. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and has a top speed of 202 mph. The AMG GT also has a long hood and aggressive stance, which makes it a visual treat. Mercedes-AMG designed the GT’s engine with “hot inside V” turbochargers—putting them inside the cylinder banks to reduce lag and improve efficiency.
Subaru WRX STI (VA) – 2014
The 2014 Subaru WRX STI is one of the best rally-bred legends known for the turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer engine and 305 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque. It comes with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to accelerate from 0-60 mph within 4.9 seconds. It easily conquers rugged terrains and adverse weather. The car is a highly reliable WRX STI, a favorite among people for regular use and weekend adventure escapades.
Aston Martin Vantage – 2018
The 2018 Aston Martin Vantage modernized the brand’s lineup with aggressive styling and an AMG-sourced 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. It produces 503 hp and 505 lb-ft of torque, hits 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds, and tops out at 195 mph. Despite its luxury pedigree, the Vantage, with a lightweight bonded-aluminum structure, is engineered for durability. Aston Martin tested the Vantage extensively at the Nürburgring, completing over 10,000 laps to ensure its performance and reliability.
Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE – 2018
The Camaro ZL1 1LE, launched in 2018, is a track-ready beast. Its supercharged 6.2-liter LT4 V8 makes 650 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, accelerating the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and reaching 190 mph. The ZL1 1LE includes aerodynamic aids such as a carbon-fiber rear wing and a race-inspired suspension for better road grip. Despite its hardcore focus, the ZL1 1LE upholds a reputation for reliability.
Lexus LC 500 – 2017
The Lexus LC 500 debuted in 2017. Its luxury and performance blend was made possible by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 with 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque. It takes 4.4 seconds to 0-60 mph and goes as high as 168 mph. Known for Lexus’ legendary reliability, the LC 500 is a grand tourer that balances comfort and excitement. Fun fact: The design of the LC 500 was inspired by the LF-LC concept car, which received multiple design awards before being put into production.
Volkswagen Golf R (MK7) – 2015
Launched in 2015, the MK7 Golf R is a compact powerhouse. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four produces 292 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Featuring Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, it is both practical and performance-oriented. Fun fact: The Golf R includes a “Race Mode” that sharpens throttle response and enhances the exhaust sound for an exhilarating driving experience.
Nissan GT-R (R35) – 2007
The R35 Nissan GT-R, since it came out in 2007, has been the epitome of technological ingenuity and blistering performance. The 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine can give out as much as 600 hp in the NISMO variant, putting it to 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. The GT-R is a monster known for its reliability and ability to trounce many more expensive supercars, which is why they have the nickname “Godzilla.”. The launch control of R35 was so advanced that it became a benchmark for other manufacturers.
BMW i8 – 2014
The BMW i8, released in 2014, is a futuristic plug-in hybrid sports car that runs on a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine and an electric motor. Together, they deliver 369 hp, which propels the i8 from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 155 mph. The i8 is still a reliable pioneer in hybrid technology. The dihedral doors of the i8 enhance aerodynamics and add dramatic flair.
Hyundai Veloster N – 2018
The Veloster N, launched in 2018, is Hyundai’s answer to the hot hatch segment. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 275 hp, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds. The Veloster N is as reliable as fun and is backed by Hyundai’s impressive warranty. Fun fact: Hyundai tested the Veloster N extensively on the Nürburgring, where the company operates its R&D center.
McLaren 720S – 2017
The 2017 unveiled McLaren 720S defined the art of supercar performance, delivering 710 hp from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that hits 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds and can reach 212 mph. Though extremely performance-oriented, the 720S is designed for reliability using the most modern materials and aerodynamics. The 720S’s Monocage II carbon-fiber chassis is so light that it helps improve the class-leading power-to-weight ratio of the car.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
Electric vehicles are no longer a luxury for the elite—they’re a smart investment for the everyday driver. With manufacturers stepping up to the plate, affordable EVs now deliver on reliability, range, and modern comforts. Here’s a look at 18 economical electric cars engineered to outlast their payment plans.
18 Budget-Friendly Electric Cars That Last Longer Than Their Loans — Economical Electrics
