Nobody wants to choose between a daily driver or a fun sports car. So, why not have both? There is certainly no shortage of hilariously impractical sports cars that don’t really fit daily driving necessities. However, the amount of sports cars that do meet those requirements may surprise you a bit. Here are five sports cars that Hotcars describes as “virtually indestructible,” so you can trust them from a simple grocery store run to a cross-country road trip.
987 Porsche Boxster
The second-generation Boxster takes on the more modern front-end styling of the 997 generation Porsche 911. Compared to the first-generation Boxster, 2005 through 2012 model years have far fewer issues and actually make for quite dependable cars.
So, the 987 offers a perfect blend of sports car modernity with affordability. They’re available with either a 2.7-liter or 3.2-liter naturally-aspirated flat-six engine and up to 276 horsepower. Additionally, this generation saw the introduction of Porsche’s iconic PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission. While the manuals are the fan-favorite and will command higher prices, the PDK cars have lightning-quick shifting and the same fantastic handling characteristics.
Mercedes-Benz SLK 32 AMG
Admittedly, Mercedes is not the first thing that comes to mind when you think “dependable.” However, the SLK 32 AMG’s engine is far more dependable than you might think.
Additionally, it offers an open-air sports car experience and a supercharged V6 engine that makes a plentiful 354 horsepower.
Acura/Honda NSX
1997 Honda NSX | Honda
The NSX is a staple of Honda engineering. Of course, most folks know that legendary racing driver Aryton Senna played a role in the development of the NSX’s handling characteristics. Rest assured, the NSX is a fantastic car on the track.
However, the NSX also maintains Honda’s notoriety for dependability. In fact, there’s even an NSX that has over 400,000 miles on the odometer.
So, if you’re looking for supercar looks, outstanding handling, and ridiculous reliability, the NSX is absolutely the best option.
C4 Chevrolet Corvette
Looking for a great used sports car? It won’t be too long before the world realizes a reasonable outlay of cash buys 250-plus horsepower, a 6-speed manual transmission, sharp handling, and remarkable reliability, in the form of the C4 Corvette. https://t.co/ZcdQMN0vhd #usedcars pic.twitter.com/SSbT2wSFkV
— Autotrader (@AutoTrader_com) September 21, 2021
Most people are perfectly aware that a Chevy Corvette is a dependable car. Most people recommending a Corvette for a sports car enthusiast will point to the C5 or C6 generation for their LS powerplants and big performance numbers. However, the somewhat underloved C4 Corvette still carries dependability and a fun driving experience.
The Chevrolet small-block V8 is notorious for reliability and easy power modifications across all its generations, not just the LS. So, finding yourself behind the wheel of a 350-powered C4 Corvette is a good time with good dependability.
The C4 is, however, known to have some issues with the Crossfire fuel injection system. However, both the issues and fixes are plenty well documented.
Porsche 911
2023 Porsche 911 Sport Classic | Porsche
The Porsche 911 really is the answer to any sports car question. Unless the question is, “what can I get if I can’t afford a 911?” Even then, the 911 might still be a feasible answer.
The Porsche 911 has been around for so long that there’s one for sale in just about every sports car shopper’s budget range. Even with the insane prices of used cars right now, there are still 996 Porsche 911s for sale for around $20,000.
Pick a car, any car!
Ultimately, any of the cars on this list make for an excellent choice in terms of a reliable sports car. Just like any older car, you’re likely to run into problems that will need addressing. However, all of these cars are free from any major issues that could leave you stranded on the side of the road or with an empty wallet.
Keyword: Here Are 5 Sports Cars You Can Daily Drive Dependably