The year is drawing to a close, and it's time to take stock. We've already shared our summary of the 43 cars we tested throughout 2017, featuring models of all styles, segments, and personalities. However, like any car enthusiast, our greatest passion lies with sports cars.
In 2017, several sports cars passed through our garage. Some were more dynamic versions of standard models, while others were purebred sports cars, and we even had a dream supercar. Some were turbocharged, others naturally aspirated; some were front-wheel drive, others rear-wheel drive, and a couple were all-wheel drive. However, they all shared one thing in common: fun and performance . Which one would you choose?
Opel Corsa OPC
In January, in the second test of the year, Mario Nogales published his impressions gathered over several days with the Opel Corsa OPC . Among its most noteworthy points, in our opinion, are a body that is somewhat distinctive but not excessive, the contributions of the Performance Pack, and, of course, its dynamic handling and performance.
This little GTI uses a 1.6 Turbo engine producing 207 hp , a highly effective chassis setup, and, thanks to the Performance Pack , an oversized Brembo braking system and a limited-slip differential that allows you to accelerate early, effectively transferring those 200-plus hp to the asphalt. However, if you're looking to drift it and enjoy a more passionate than practical driving experience, you should know that the Opel Corsa OPC always tries to stay on track.
Ford Fiesta ST200
A couple of months later, the Ford Fiesta ST200 arrived at our offices , where it would be thoroughly tested by our colleague Luis Gatón . With a similar concept to the Corsa OPC, the Fiesta ST200 was positioned at the time as the most powerful Fiesta ever, boasting 200 hp, which increased to 215 hp thanks to its overboost function . Its styling isn't very different from the "normal" ST, and the gray color doesn't exactly give it a sporty look. In any case, this could also be a positive, as we're dealing with a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Dynamically, and compared to the Corsa, the ST200 is more responsive, demanding a bit more from the driver to maintain high speeds. However, it's also a car that can be driven calmly, and you don't need to be an expert driver to maintain a brisk pace. We highlight its sporty feel, the exhaust note of its 1.6 turbo engine, and its agility on mountain passes. The only drawback in terms of dynamics is probably the lack of a limited-slip differential.
A
I received a call from Audi to test drive the S3 Sportback for a week . Personally, I was quite eager to try it out, as I'd heard it was a very effective but not very fun car. Was that true? To find out, what better way than to take advantage of the invitation from the Ingolstadt-based brand?
A 2-liter turbo engine, 310 hp, 400 Nm of torque, all-wheel drive, and a dual-clutch transmission ; all housed in an elegant and practical five-door body. In completely normal driving, its handling is no different from any Audi A3. A well-insulated, comfortable, and high-quality car. But we were interested in its dynamic performance. So, we went to the Jarama Circuit, where we discovered that, indeed, it's a very fast car, with tremendous cornering ability; but also too easy to drive , which detracts somewhat from the fun. In any case, that's what the Audi RS 3 is for, right?
Abarth 124 Spider
Luis Gatón was back behind the wheel of a sports car, this time the Abarth 124 Spider . A car completely different from the S3, boasting a 170 hp engine, a very low overall weight, a manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive. It also has the added appeal of being a convertible. Once again, we headed to the Jarama Circuit to push it to its limits in complete safety. The result?
The 170 hp of the turbocharged 1.4-liter engine and its light weight are an ideal combination for enjoying mountain roads and twisty circuits, but it's true that its suspension isn't stiff enough to be highly effective on wide tracks. Furthermore, the 170 hp—again, for track use—is somewhat underpowered. Therefore, its natural habitat is mountain roads, where you'll enjoy yourself and can play with the throttle to refine your line exiting corners. On the other hand, its racing- inspired yet retro design makes it quite exclusive. Its high price is a shame.
Toyota GT86
The fifth sports car to pass through our test section was the Toyota GT86 , tested by our colleague Enrique León . It boasts a naturally aspirated 2-liter boxer engine with 200 hp , rear-wheel drive with a limited-slip differential, a manual transmission, and compact dimensions with a low weight. The formula for success? The Toyota GT86 is a pure sports car that can also be used as a daily driver.
It doesn't have a harsh response, nor are the controls overly stiff, it doesn't drink excessively, and it's not excessively rigid. It won't be the fastest car on the track, but the Toyota GT86 isn't aiming for that; its goal is to deliver sporty sensations and fun in an economical way, without the need to risk your license on every outing. Something that will appeal to the most enthusiastic drivers is that its 200 hp and relatively narrow tires allow it to drift at moderate speeds, while remaining easily controllable.
Audi R8 V10 More
And in July our dream came true . For the first time, we were able to enjoy a supercar for several days, specifically an Audi R8 V10 Plus . I already told you in this other article that driving a car like this when you're a bit shy and when your wallet usually only has about 20 euros isn't always as exciting as it seems, but I guarantee it was a highly recommended experience for any car enthusiast.
The Audi R8 V10 Plus we tested gave us sensations never before experienced in a car. Incredible track performance, 610 hp perfectly channeled through all four wheels, savage braking power, incredible cornering ability, a launch control function that pinned you to your seat from 1 km/h until you decided to lift off the accelerator, and of course, a howl from its naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V10 engine that I will never forget.
Mazda MX-5 RF
The MX-5 is the quintessential roadster and one of our favorite cars. Mazda launched the MX-5 RF with a retractable hardtop in this fourth generation, improving sound insulation and giving it a new look. Alejandro Ortiz , a two-seater convertible enthusiast, drove it for a week and shared his impressions behind the wheel of the 2.0-liter, 160-hp version.
As with the Abarth 124 Spider, the stated power output may not seem high, but we can assure you it's more than enough to move with agility and put a smile on your face every time you tackle a winding road. Rear-wheel drive, the feel and short throws of its gear lever, along with direct precision, make the Mazda MX-5 RF an affordable alternative for anyone looking for a convertible sports car without the drawbacks of a soft top.
F
And the last sports car we spent several days with was the Ford Mustang GT . Yes, the current Ford Mustang can be classified as a sports car. The GT variant uses a 5-liter V8 engine that produces 421 hp , which is sent to the rear wheels, passing through a six-speed manual transmission in the case of the unit I had the pleasure of testing.
Things have changed a lot since the 60s. Today's Mustang is an easy car to drive and, moreover, it delivers a driving pleasure that's slowly disappearing. The sweet purr of its V8 engine, the enjoyment even at a leisurely pace, and fuel consumption that was better than we expected, completely captivated us with this American dream. All this for under €50.000 . Can anyone top that?