The 20 Top 90s Sports Cars

When you think of the 1990s, one of the first things that come to mind is likely 90s car culture. If you consider yourself a 90s sports car enthusiast, you have likely spent hours on the internet or at car shows salivating over many memorable models. 

From a technological perspective, this decade led to numerous advancements in the auto industry. Sports cars became faster, more efficient, and more fun to drive. In fact, it can be soundly argued that the 90s was the era where auto engineers delved into vehicle mechanics, design aspects, and innovative engineering methods like never before. 

Unlike the 70s and 80 sports cars, the 90s sports cars featured much improved ABS, power steering, and fuel injection. In addition to this, this era saw the advent of many modern-day safety and luxury vehicle features that drivers have come to know and love.

For example, GPS navigation, advanced stability control, and adaptive cruise control were some of the innovative features developed and introduced during the 90s. With these advancements, the sports cars of the 90s were wonderful to drive. Many drivers were able to bask in the glory that was the mechanical connection between their hands on the steering wheel and the feel of the wheels of the road. 

Unfortunately, not everyone had the privilege of driving a 90s sports car, but that doesn’t mean we can learn a little more about them. Should you want to learn more about some of the best 90s sports cars, you might find our list of the 20 top 90s sports cars enlightening and entertaining.

1. Toyota Supra

During the 1990s, the Toyota Supra sports cars were definitely attention-worthy. Over the years, a few Toyota Supra models have made it into movies and television series, with one of the most famous movies it has featured in being one of the films in the Fast and Furious franchise.

The Toyota Supra models released in the 90s belonged to the 4th generation of Supra’s to be released by this Japanese auto manufacturer. They were new and improved with impressive performance features and memorable styling. 

The 1993 Toyota Supra was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 320 and a torque rating of 315 pounds per foot. It had an impressive top speed of 155 mph and it could reach 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. 

2. 1998 Honda Acura NSX-T

You have likely heard of the 1998 Honda Acura NSX-T because it caused ripples through the automotive industry when it was released. Many car enthusiasts consider the Honda Acura NSX sports car to be an icon because it could be driven every day in many different conditions without taking strain. No matter where you needed to go, this sports car would get you there. 

The 1998 Honda Acura NSX-T had none of the reliability and ergonomic issues that plagued other exotic models of the time. Instead, it is remembered for its precision, sleek styling, superb handling, and performance capabilities. 

This model was equipped with a 3.2-liter VTEC six cylinder engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 290 at 7,100 rpm and a torque rating of 224 pounds per foot. It had a top speed of 162 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. 

3. 1997 C5 Chevrolet Corvette

The 1997 C5 Chevrolet Corvette is certainly one of the best sports cars this brand has ever produced. Why is this the case? The 1997 C5 Chevrolet Corvette was radically changed from previous models and was affordable compared to its competition.

This model had a hydroformed box shape, and although it came with an automatic transmission, drivers could opt for manual transmission. In addition to this, the 1997 C5 Chevrolet Corvette was redesigned and engineered to be better than the C4s of the previous generation, which is why it featured an incredibly strong frame that would last decades. 

The 1997 C5 Chevrolet Corvette featured a 5.7-liter V8 engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 345 with a top speed of 172 mph. It could also reach 60 mph in 4.8 seconds, and it could race the quarter-mile in 13.2 seconds. 

4. 1994 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra

One of the greatest Ford sports cars ever produced was the 1994 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra. This vehicle reestablished the Ford Mustang model line as a performance vehicle. Interestingly, the Cobra was designed and engineered by Ford’s special vehicle team. 

The 1994 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra can be described as an upgraded version of what classic muscle cars should be. Many don’t know that the Cobra was the official pace car of the Indianapolis 500 in the year it was released, making it stand out as a very cool car during 1994. 

So what engine did this performance car possess? The 1994 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra was equipped with a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 240 and a torque rating of 285 pounds per foot. Impressively this American muscle car could reach a top speed of 140 mph and 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. 

5. 1994 Nissan 300ZX

The 90s was an impressive decade for the auto manufacturer Nissan. That’s why it’s unsurprising that the 1994 Nissan 300ZX was well received by car enthusiasts and critics alike. This model featured an electric actuator, a significant departure from other Nissan models that used hydraulic actuators. 

The 1994 Nissan 300ZX was equipped with a 3.0-liter engine and had dual overhead camshafts and variable timing. This engine allowed this sports car to reach a horsepower rating of 222. With this engine, the 1994 Nissan 300ZX could reach a top speed of 155 mph, and it could accelerate to 60 mph in six seconds. 

6. Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4

Another phenomenal 90s Japanese sports car is the Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4. This model was a fan favorite at the time because of its superbly aggressive styling. It featured a distinguishable front bumper and a true airfoil spoiler named the “combat wing” alongside elegant headlights.

This model was an all-wheel drive with all-wheel steering. It had an active exhaust, active suspension, and active aerodynamics. Many were able to look past its heaviness and instead focus on its styling and performance capabilities. 

The Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4 featured a 6.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 320 with a torque rating of 315 pounds per foot. Additionally, it had a top speed of 158 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. 

7. Ferrari Testarossa 512 TR

After Ferrari sold 7,000 Testarossa cars, the brand decided to update this successful design. During the 90s, the Ferrari Testarossa 512 TR was born and immediately grabbed the attention of sports car junkies who had a passion for superbly engineered Italian automotive craftsmanship. 

The Ferrari Testarossa 512 TR didn’t have many changes done to its body, but it received many improvements under the hood. This mid-engined vehicle was equipped with a powerful 3.5-liter V8 engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 375, which was approximately 40 more than previous models. 

This sports car had a top speed of 180 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in an estimated 5.2 seconds. Although collectors often skip over this model, it is still one of the best Ferraris produced during the 90s. 

8. 1992 BMW M3 E36

The 1992 BMW M3 E35 was the sports car that made the M series appropriate for the masses. This refined model was targeted towards execs and anyone who wanted just enough speed to be thrilling. Interestingly, the BMW M3 E36 was easier to drive than was expected, which is why it became a cult classic amongst true car enthusiasts. 

The 1992 BMW M3 E36 was equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 286. It had a respectable top speed of 155 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. 

9. 1999 Lotus Esprit Sport 350

For many, the 1999 Lotus Esprit Sport 350 with its V8 engine is the best car to be produced during this decade. This sports car is widely considered the best incarnation of the Esprit because of its technological advancements, powerful performance capabilities, and rarity. 

According to data, there were only 50 units produced of this model, which is why it is sought after by many 90s sports cars collectors. It had chassis, brake, and suspension improvements, making it easier to drive and a certifiable beast on the road and one of the very few that could emulate a track experience. 

The 1999 Lotus Esprit Sport 350 was outfitted with the standard 3.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 349 with a torque rating of 295. It had a top speed of 175, and it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. 

10. Toyota MR2 Turbo

Those who couldn’t afford a Ferrari 355 opted for a 90s Toyota MR2 Turbo sports car. Not only did this vehicle have a similar appearance to a Ferrari, but it could also drive like one thanks to its upgraded suspension components that allowed it to drive fast without losing control. 

The Toyota MR2 Turbo had impressive feedback through the steering wheel, stayed flat at high speeds, and gripped corners beautifully. Inside this 90s sports car was a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that could impressively produce a horsepower rating of 199 with a torque rating of 200 pounds per foot. 

In addition to this, the Toyota MR2 Turbo could reach a top speed of 145 mph, and it could get to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. Essentially this car performed well and looked pretty, which is why it’s on our list of the top 90s sports cars. 

11. 1990 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32

It’s likely that you know about the latest Nissan GT-R models, but do you know much about the 1990 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 model? Although this vehicle is not one of the more popular models produced by Nissan, it is one of the best they released during the 90s. 

The 1990 Nissan Skyline GT-R was stylish, elegant, and comfortable. If you were in high school during the 90s, this is the car you wanted to own. It was equipped with a 2.6-liter twin-turbo straight-six engine that had an official horsepower rating of 276, but many claimed it could produce a rating of up to 320 hp. In addition to an impressive horsepower rating, the 1990 Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 models could reach a top speed of 156 mph, and they could accelerate to 60 mph in approximately 5.6 seconds.

12. Mazda MX-5 Miata

Did you know that you have the 90s Mazda MX-5 Miata sports car models to thank for the Porsche Boxster and the BMW Z4? The Mazda MX-5 Miata had an immense impact on the sports car industry because of its spectacular driver engagement abilities. 

These models became a commercial success, with many clambering to get their hands on them. Curiously, it wasn’t its commercial success that made it a 90s icon but rather that its appearance and performance capabilities spurred on other auto manufacturers to begin producing smaller two-seater sports cars again. 

The 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata was equipped with a 1.6-liter inline-four engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 114 at 6,500 rpm and a torque rating of 100 pounds per foot at 5,500 rpm. In addition to this, this model could reach a top speed of 145 mph and 60 mph in 8.3 seconds. 

13. Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR

When you think of the luxury car brand Mercedes-Benz, you might not immediately associate them with producing one of the greatest 90s sports cars. Yet, despite how difficult it might be to believe, this brand manufactured the 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR. 

The 1997 Mercedes Benz CLK GTR was designed and engineered by the Mercedes-Benz motorsports and performance wing. Mercedes specifically built this model for racing and sports, which is why it might look familiar. 

Uniquely, this model featured an aluminum honeycomb monocoque and a carbon fiber chassis with double wishbone suspension for the front and rear. Additionally, the 1997 Mercedes-Benz CLK GTR was equipped with a 6.9-liter V12 engine that could produce an astonishing horsepower rating of 612. It also had an astonishing top speed of 191 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in 3.4 seconds. 

14. Porsche 986 Boxster

During the 1990s, Porsche was experiencing turbulence as the company was dealing with a few pesky issues. That’s why the 1996 Porsche 986 Boxster was a godsend. This sports car was released quickly and immediately became a best seller for the company, thus stabilizing some of the issues it was experiencing. 

The Porsche 986 Boxster was often described as nearly perfect, with many critics and enthusiasts alike singing its praises. This model shared a few of its styling components with the Porsche 911, so it’s easy to see why it was well-received in the market. 

Interestingly, this 90s sports car was powered by a water-cooled Porsche Type M96 2.5-liter six-cylinder engine. This engine allowed the Porsche 986 Boxster to produce a horsepower rating of 201 at 6,000 rpm and a torque rating of 181 pounds per foot. Additionally, it had a top speed of 149 mph and could reach 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. 

15. 1993 Chevrolet Corvette LT1

Did you know that the 1993 Chevrolet Corvette LT1 was often referred to as “America’s Most Respected V8?” The LT1 model featured the most powerful small-block V-8 engine ever placed in a production corvette sports car. 

The 1993 Chevrolet Corvette LT1 was the update for performance lovers who wanted an American muscle car that could compete. This model had performance and technological features galore. Some of the more notable technological features included aluminum cylinder heads, multi-port fuel injection, a low profile intake manifold, and a unique reverse-flow cooling system. 

This 90s sports car was equipped with a 5.7-liter V8 engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 300 at 5,000 rpm with a torque rating of 340 pounds per foot at 3,600 rpm. Additionally, it had a top speed of 158 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. 

16. 1995 Ferrari F355 Spider

Ferrari is well known for its expert craftsmanship, unequaled styling, and superior performance capabilities, which is why it’s no surprise that the 1995 Ferrari F355 Spider models are still sought after today. The 1995 Ferrari F355 Spider went through 1,800 hours of wind tunnel testing to ensure commendable aerodynamics. 

This model was elegant, sophisticated, and luxurious, which was everything you could expect from a Ferrari. Yet underneath this beauty was a powerful engine. Inside the 1995 Ferrari F355 Spider was a 3.5-liter V8 engine that could produce a maximum horsepower rating of 380. This 90s sports car could reach an impressive top speed of 183 mph with this engine equipped. 

17. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX Turbo

Were you aware that according to Mitsubishi Motors, the Eclipse was penned after an unbeaten 18th-century English racehorse who won 26 races? The 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX Turbo was one of the best 90s tuner cars to grace the streets. 

This model was marketed as an entry-level all-wheel-drive sports coupe targeted at those who wanted an affordable sports car that could perform well enough. The 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX Turbo featured a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine. 

With this engine, the 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX Turbo sports car could produce a horsepower rating of 195, and it had a top speed of 140 mph. It could also reach 60 mph in only 6.8 seconds which was not bad for a 90s tuner model. 

18. Porsche 964 Turbo

Arguably one of the greatest Porsche sports cars was the Porsche 911 Turbo, otherwise known as the type 964. Interestingly this model was only available as a coupe and was often favored by those with a particular affinity for the Carrera models. 

However, unlike the Porsche Carrera models, the 90s 964 Turbo featured a wider body and significantly more flared wheel housings. Yet, what emphasized this vehicle’s uniqueness was its two oval tailpipes. 

From 1991 to 1992, the Porsche 964 Turbo was powered by a turbocharged 3.3-liter engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 320. The 1993 Porsche 964 Turbo was equipped with a 3.6-liter engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 360. 

19. 1992 Bugatti EB110

One of the most legendary Bugatti models ever designed, engineered, and manufactured was the 1992 Bugatti EB110. The 1992 Bugatti EB110 was the only mid-engined sports car to be produced by Bugatti when the iconic Romano Artioli still owned the brand. 

Yet this isn’t what made the car memorable. Instead, it was its masterful design and performance capabilities. This model was powered by an incredibly powerful 3.5-liter twelve-cylinder quad-turbocharged engine. 

Astonishingly, the Supor Sport six-speed manual transmission variant of this sports car could produce a horsepower rating of 603 at 8,250 rpm and a torque rating of 479 pounds per foot at 4,200 rpm. Additionally, the 1992 Bugatti EB110 had a top speed of 221 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in only 3.2 seconds.

20. 1991 BMW Z1

The 1990s are memorable for their automotive technological advancements, but many of the vehicles to be manufactured during this time stood out. For example, one of the most unique sports cars to be released during the 90s was the 1991 BMW Z1.

The 1991 BMW Z1 was most famous for its strange but wonderful disappearing doors. Although these doors were not invisible (the 90s weren’t that advanced), they were removable, which is why this sports car was only legal in a few countries. In addition to the detachable doors, the 1991 BMW Z1 also had a distinctly stylish wedge shape which is why it’s believed to be the inspiration behind the modern-day roadsters that BMW manufactures. 

The 1991 BMW Z1 might not have been the fastest, but it was definitely capable. This model was powered by a somewhat impressive 2.5 liter straight six M20B25 engine that could produce a horsepower rating of 168. It also had a top speed of 136 mph, and it could reach 60 mph in approximately 7.9 seconds.