In a world increasingly dominated by automatics and dual-clutch transmissions‚ the thrill of rowing your own gears remains a cherished experience for many driving enthusiasts. While the number of manual transmission sports cars available has dwindled in recent years‚ there are still some fantastic options out there for those who crave that visceral connection to the road. Here are some of the best sports cars with manual transmissions still available in 2023⁚
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata has long been the poster child for affordable‚ fun-to-drive roadster‚ and its manual transmission is a key part of that appeal. With its lightweight design‚ responsive engine‚ and precise handling‚ the Miata delivers an engaging driving experience that is both rewarding and accessible. The 2023 model features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque‚ making it more powerful than ever before. The Miata’s six-speed manual transmission is smooth and precise‚ with well-spaced gears that make it easy to find the right ratio for any situation.
2. Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ is another great option for those who appreciate the joy of a manual transmission; This lightweight‚ rear-wheel-drive coupe shares its platform with the Toyota 86 and offers a similar level of handling agility and driver engagement. The BRZ is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque‚ and its six-speed manual transmission is known for its smooth and precise operation.
3. Toyota GR86
The Toyota GR86 is the twin of the Subaru BRZ and shares its platform and drivetrain. It offers a sporty driving experience that is both engaging and accessible‚ and its manual transmission is a key part of that appeal. The GR86 is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque‚ and its six-speed manual transmission is known for its smooth and precise operation.
4. Honda Civic Type R
The Honda Civic Type R is a true performance machine‚ and its six-speed manual transmission is a key part of its appeal. This hot hatch delivers a blistering performance with its 306-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine‚ and its manual transmission allows you to fully exploit its potential. The Civic Type R’s six-speed manual transmission is known for its short throws and precise operation‚ providing a truly rewarding driving experience.
5. Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car‚ and its manual transmission option remains a popular choice for those who want the ultimate driving experience. The Mustang offers a range of engine options‚ from the base 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder to the powerful 5.0-liter V8‚ and each one is available with a six-speed manual transmission. The Mustang’s manual transmission is known for its smooth operation and engaging clutch feel‚ making it a joy to drive.
6. Chevrolet Camaro
The Chevrolet Camaro is another iconic American muscle car that offers a manual transmission option. It’s available with a range of engine options‚ from the base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder to the powerful 6.2-liter V8‚ and each one can be paired with a six-speed manual transmission; The Camaro’s manual transmission is known for its smooth operation and engaging clutch feel‚ making it a joy to drive.
7. Porsche 718 Cayman
The Porsche 718 Cayman is a mid-engine sports car that offers a truly exhilarating driving experience. Its six-speed manual transmission is a key part of its appeal‚ allowing you to fully exploit its performance potential. The Cayman is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 300 horsepower‚ and its manual transmission is known for its smooth and precise operation‚ making it a true joy to drive.
8. Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 is one of the most iconic sports cars in the world‚ and its manual transmission option is a key part of its legacy. It’s available with a seven-speed manual transmission‚ and it delivers a truly exhilarating driving experience. The 911’s manual transmission is known for its smooth and precise operation‚ making it a true joy to drive.
9. Nissan Z
The Nissan Z is a classic sports car that has been reborn for the 2023 model year. It’s powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that produces 400 horsepower‚ and it’s available with a six-speed manual transmission. The Z’s manual transmission is known for its smooth and precise operation‚ making it a joy to drive.
These are just a few of the best sports cars with manual transmissions still available in 2023. If you’re looking for an engaging and rewarding driving experience‚ a manual transmission is definitely the way to go.