10 Most Popular Sports Cars in the web to date 2008

Most Popular Sports Cars on MSN

The sports cars that shoppers on MSN are researching most.
Most Popular Sports Cars on MSN
The sports cars that shoppers on MSN are researching most.
By Perry Stern of MSN autos

The words performance, handling and fun go hand-in-hand when talking sports cars. Many would argue these speedsters should seat only two passengers and sport rear-wheel drive, but automotive thrills can arrive in many forms. And with affordability often playing a major role in broad appeal, it comes as no surprise that the Ford Mustang continues to be the most popular sports car on MSN Autos.

Ford's pony car — available in a variety of body styles and performance variants — has reigned as number one on this list for several years. Right behind the 'stang in second place is the Kentucky-built Chevrolet Corvette, which has held this spot for seven consecutive quarters.

A newcomer to this list of popular sports cars is the much-anticipated Dodge Challenger. The modern-day muscle car's retro styling is appealing to those buyers who grew up with the original, while its bold looks and impressive performance are a draw to younger buyers.

The remaining seven vehicles in the list represent the wide range that makes up sports cars, from the sporty Mazda MX-5 (Miata) to the exotic Lamborghini Murcielago LP640, which rounds out the list in the 10th spot. Of course, such venerable entries as the Porsche 911, Nissan Z-Car and the powerful BMW M3 continue to be favorites of MSN Autos shoppers.

The list of the 10 most popular sports cars on MSN Autos is based on visits to the site's vehicle research pages during months April through June, 2008:

1. Ford Mustang

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2009 Ford Mustang California Special

When the latest Mustang debuted in 2005, its flashback styling tapped into a deep well of American automotive lust. Its retro design — plainly displayed via round headlights, triangular windows, three-element taillights, and galloping-pony grille — only added appeal to one of the last affordable American sports cars. The Mustang continues to be one of the most popular cars in the Ford lineup, offering a variety of performance options, including a 300-horsepower V8 engine.

2. Chevrolet Corvette

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Chevrolet Corvette

Long an American icon, the current Corvette is also a world-class, high-performance sports car. For the 2008 model year, a new LS3 6.2-liter V8 gives the Corvette an extra 30 horsepower and 24 lb-ft of torque. With the new mill cranking out 430 horsepower and 424 lb-ft of torque, it surprisingly achieves an impressive 16 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. For a bit more punch, there’s the limited-edition Corvette Z06 that boasts a 7.0-liter V8 producing 505 horsepower. Need more power? Later this year Chevrolet will bring out the Corvette ZR1 with 638 horsepower and a top speed in excess of 200 mph.

3. Dodge Challenger

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Dodge Challenger R/T

After a 35-year hiatus, Dodge has brought back this classic muscle car in thoroughly modern form. Anticipation has been growing for this HEMI-powered blast from the past ever since it debuted in 2006 as a concept vehicle in Detroit. Available in three different trims, the flagship version is the SRT8 which boasts a 6.1-liter V8 engine pumping 425 horses to the rear wheels via a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. And unlike that original model from decades ago, this new Challenger is available with such high-tech features as the MyGIG music storage system, satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, Keyless Go and remote start.

4. Porsche 911

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Porsche 911 GT2

The legendary rear-engine sports car, the 911 has managed to retain its trademark silhouette since its inception over 40 years ago. A number of different versions are available, with the range-topping 911 Turbo cranking out 480 horsepower from its twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter flat-Six. With a high-tech all-wheel-drive system, the Turbo can lunge to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and hit 100 mph in 8.4 seconds using the standard 6-speed manual transmission. Opt for the 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and acceleration times improve to 3.4 and 7.8 seconds. Porsche’s most powerful 911 to date, the GT2, became available in the U.S. earlier this year.

5. Nissan 350Z

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Nissan 350Z

Nissan brought back the legendary Z car in 2003 after being absent from the market for seven years. Available in coupe or a convertible, the Z is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that delivers 306-horsepower. Added for 2007 is the NISMO 350Z, which features a more aerodynamic look, a specially tuned suspension, Brembo brakes and lightweight forged-alloy wheels. NISMO is Nissan's performance products division. This fall, look for the next-generation of Z car to arrive with a larger motor and more power.

6. Mitsubishi Eclipse

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2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse

The Eclipse is Mitsubishi’s sporty coupe and convertible that received updated styling for 2009 to tie it closer to the look of its high-performance sibling, the Lancer Evolution. Since it was introduced almost 20 years ago, the Eclipse has changed its shape and style several times. The current version is available as an ES or GT, the latter getting the benefit of a 3.8-liter V6 that produces 265 horsepower driving the front wheels.

7. BMW M3

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2008 BMW M3 Convertible

The M3 is the high-performance version of the BMW 3-Series and is completely redesigned for 2008, powered for the first time by a V8 engine. Offered in coupe, sedan and convertible versions, the M3 is even more aggressive than its predecessor with a power dome in the middle of the aluminum hood, a rear diffuser, and gills in the front fenders that include the blue/purple/red M3 logo. The 4.0-liter V8 puts out 414 horsepower at a high-revving 8300 rpm and is teamed with a 6-speed manual transmission or a new 7-speed M Double-Clutch transmission with Drivelogic, specifically designed for the M3’s high-revving engine.

8. Mazda MX-5 Miata

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Mazda MX-5 Miata

Introduced in the summer of 1989 as a 1990 model, the MX-5's quick steering, go-kart-like handling and sporty styling have helped the roadster land a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records as the best-selling two-seater sports car in the world. Following the trend of retractable hardtop convertibles, Mazda has added one to the MX-5 lineup. The retractable top adds only 75 pounds without reducing cargo room. Prices start under $21,000 for a 2008 Miata.

9. Saturn Sky

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Saturn Sky

The Sky may be the first Saturn ever to be referred to as sexy, but the new roadster certainly turns heads. Sharing a platform with the Pontiac Solstice, the Sky's suspension is tuned differently to provide a more compliant ride. The base engine is a 2.4-liter 173-horsepower 4-cylinder, while the Sky Red Line's powerplant is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder producing 260-horsepower. Starting price for a 2008 Sky is around $26,000.

10. Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

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Lamborghini Murcielago LP640

Whenever a machine as exotic as the Murcielago hits the road, it can't help but turn heads. The latest iteration of this exotic sports car — the LP640 — only adds to the neck-snapping appeal. The restyled body features new bumpers front and back, larger air intakes, and rear lights designed with a single-piece lens. The LP640 is powered by a 640-horsepower 6.5-liter V12. The V12's torque peak of 486 lb-ft (at 6000 rpm) is channeled through a new 6-speed transmission, stronger rear differential and permanent all-wheel drive.

Hyundai Joins the Luxury Cars Circuit

Hyundai’s new luxury sedan aims to run with the big dogs.

In the beginning, Hyundai created econoboxes. Then, in the early 2000s, the fledgling South Korean automaker began a move upmarket, with larger, more luxurious vehicles. For 2009, Hyundai is taking its biggest leap yet with Genesis. This large rear-wheel-drive sport sedan has aspirations to take on the likes of the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but is priced closer to that of the Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8. We’ve driven the Genesis, and saw that it is good.

All-new for 2009, the Genesis is the beginning of a more luxurious Hyundai. Similar in size to a Pontiac G8, Hyundai touts the new 4.6-liter V8 and European-inspired handling.

In the beginning, Hyundai created econoboxes. Then, in the early 2000s, the fledgling South Korean automaker began a move upmarket, with larger, more luxurious vehicles. For 2009, Hyundai is taking its biggest leap yet with Genesis. This large rear-wheel-drive sport sedan has aspirations to take on the likes of the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but is priced closer to that of the Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8. We’ve driven the Genesis, and saw that it is good.

Model Lineup
Value for the dollar is one of Hyundai’s greatest strengths, and the Genesis is no different. It is offered as two well-equipped versions with trim names tied to engine size, the 3.8 and the 4.6. The base 3.8 trim has such amenities as leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a 7-speaker AM/FM/CD audio, an iPod interface, XM satellite radio, Bluetooth cell phone link, and P225/55R17 tires. The 4.6 trim adds a sunroof, a Lexicon 15-speaker audio system, a six-disc CD changer, a power rear sunshade, and P235/50R18 tires, among other items.

The 3.8 is available with much of the 4.6’s equipment, and both versions can be ordered with a Technology Package that includes front- and rear obstacle detection, heated and cooled front seats, a 17-speaker, 7.1-channel Lexicon surround sound audio system, an HD radio, XM NavTraffic, a rearview camera, adaptive xenon headlights, a navigation system, and a 40-gigabyte hard drive for music files and navigation map information. A fully loaded 4.6 tops out at $42,000, including destination charges.

Under the Hood
The Genesis is offered in two flavors, both with substantial power. The V6 version is motivated by Hyundai’s Lambda 3.8-liter DOHC V6, which produces 290 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 264 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. It comes mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual shift capability. The V6 is EPA-rated at 18/27 mpg (city/hwy).

The V8 version offers Hyundai’s new Tau 4.6-liter DOHC V8. Hyundai has outfitted this engine with the latest technology, including continuously variable timing for both the intake and exhaust valves and a Variable Intake System designed to allow the engine to breathe more efficiently at both low and high speeds. The result is 375 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 333 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm with premium fuel. Opt for regular fuel and those numbers drop slightly to 368 horsepower and 324 lb-ft of torque. Like the V6, the V8 comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic, and is rated at 17/25 mpg.

Inner Space
The interior of the Genesis is thoughtfully detailed, with an abundance of chrome accents and soft-touch materials, including a leather-wrapped dash — a feature usually reserved for much more expensive vehicles. However, to our eyes, the look isn’t terribly attractive, since the dash design reminds us of an older Buick.

With the optional navigation system, the Genesis has a central multimedia control to operate the radio, navigation system, iPod interface, trip computer, and Bluetooth phone, among other settings. It uses a large rotating knob and six buttons to select the various functions. Compared to similar systems from BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz, the Hyundai system is simpler to use, but it still adds a couple steps to simple tasks such as programming a radio station. The navigation system can be programmed on the fly and can also be controlled by voice commands.

Front- and rear-seat legroom is quite good, though tall rear-seat passengers might want more headroom. The seats are comfortable, but sit up higher than some might prefer and don’t have all that many adjustments given the Genesis’s overall level of luxury. Small item storage is decent, but the Genesis could use a couple more cubbies for cell phones, keys and the like. The trunk is deep, with 15.9 cubic feet of cargo room. It has a standard rear pass-through, but we’d much prefer folding rear seats, which Hyundai opted against for structural reasons.

On the Road
Hyundai mentions such competitors as the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class as benchmark vehicles for ride and handling. With advanced five-link front and rear suspensions and a rigid rear-drive unibody structure, the Genesis has the hardware to play with the big boys. On a twisty road, the car is comparable to the luxury-oriented E-Class, but it lacks the balance, agility, and direct steering of BMW’s 5-Series.

We had the opportunity to drive the Genesis on both twisty two-lane roads and on a small California road course. The Genesis proved to be a capable handler, and a viable match for the Mercedes. By comparison, the Genesis feels a bit number and doesn’t have as much steering feel as the E-Class, but it stays flatter through turns. The V6 version has a better weight balance than the V8, making it easier to direct through high-speed corners.

On the road, the Genesis provides a smooth, quiet ride, even with the 4.6’s 18-inch wheels. The ride offered no float or wallow, though it was prone to bounding motions over humps and ruts at highway speeds. The V6 has plenty of zip for most every need. The car gets underway with gusto and highway passing is worry free. Hyundai claims a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time for the V6, but our seat-of-the-pants feel and an unofficial run told us it feels more like 7.5 seconds, which is still fairly quick.

Hyundai boasts that the Tau V8 puts out more horsepower per liter than any vehicle in its class. A turn behind the wheel seemed to bear that out. The V8 has lots of power from a stop, responsive midrange punch, and plenty of reserve when that extra bit is needed to get around traffic on the highway. The V8’s extra power comes with little fuel economy penalty, and we believe Hyundai’s quoted 5.7-second 0-60 mph time.

Each engine is mated to a different 6-speed automatic transmission and both shift smoothly, with quick downshifts for passing. Given the Genesis’s sporty aspirations, however, Hyundai might consider adding steering wheel paddles to enhance the fun when canyon carving.

Right for You?
With prices ranging from $33,000 to $42,000, the Genesis fits between the BMW, Infiniti and Mercedes sport sedans it aims for and the less expensive Chrysler 300 and Pontiac G8. The best Hyundai yet, the Genesis offers lots of features for the dollar, a dynamic ride and handling, willing power and plenty of interior room. It’ll make a fine family car, though the lack of a folding rear seat limits cargo capacity.

Kirk Bell has served as the associate publisher for Consumer Guide Automotive and editor of Scale Auto Enthusiast magazine. A Midwest native, Bell brings 18 years of automotive journalism experience to MSN, and currently contributes to JDPower.com and Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.

In the market for a new car? MSN Autos is pleased to provide you with information and services designed to save you time, money and hassle. Click to research prices and specifications on any new car on the market or get a free price quote through MSN Autos' New-Car Buying Service.

My very own Nascar Bashing - is it a stupid sport?

Nascar recieves tough love

Here's tough love for Nascar fans out there.

A lady by the name of Sadie Sexy was talking about Nascar the other day and how the rules have been changed to crack down on infractions, after here more than friendly post comes the reaction to Nascar.

Sadie Sexy-

Wow! I have never seen the powers at Nascar this tough on the rules and car inspections. I believe it is good that they are starting the year tough. I'm not sure I can understand why they levied strict penalties against the Everham cars and Kenseth's cars for not adhering to the rules concerning the cars aerodynamics, but did not levy any penalty point against Jeff Gordon in yesterday's 150 when his car did not pass the post race inspection. Having his car 1 inch lower to the ground is also an air situation and it seems he should have had similar point penalties and fines as the other drivers. All he got was being sent to position 42 for Sunday's race.

Your thoughts on this, Please!

Comments comes in as follows

Nana to Seven Cutiepies-

I'm more baffled by the infractions of last Sunday's race with the fuel. I don't exactly understand what they were thinking. The thing I really like about NASCAR is the "good Ole Boy" image, the way they are all a big happy family and how generations are represented in the sport, so when these infractions appear I am baffled. Are they really trying to pull one over on the others or is it an honest misunderstanding of the rules? I can't wait to discuss this with my son since he has a way of explaining it better so this old woman can understand.

He's a big fan only because I never missed a race while he was growning up and it just grew on him.

Sensational Sadie replies-

I guess some of you did not watch the Dual 150s. Jeff Gordon won the 2nd one, but his car did not meet post race inspection because it was too low to the ground by one inch, which is significant. This in my estimation gave him just as much advantage as the holes in the wheel wells of the Everham cars. One team was punished severely while Gordon's team had no points taken away, no fines and no suspensions. As for Michael Waltrip, he suffered VERY big penalties for what happened. He made a profound apology for his racing program, and he raced his way into the 500 on Sunday in a car that had not been on that track. I thought he showed a lot of class in his statement Thursday morning. I saw Jeff Gordon on Speed TV this morning and he was joking about the turn of events concerning his car.

Comes the basher Jimmie-

I keep biting my tongue, trying to avoid flying in the face of the apparant rampant race fan(aticism) here ...but, you keep posting stuff about NASCAR, so here goes. In my opinion, this is the stupidest of all human activites; and to call it a "sport" is ludicrous! It wastes huge amounts of fuel...in the cars that race and all the cars that are driven to these hellacious events. I never cared for racing as it was, but when Dale Ernhardt was killed in a race, and I saw signs in many, many yards around our area lamenting the loss of an "American Hero" I was pushed over the edge. I no longer found racing ridiculous, I found it to be evil. How was a man who chose to drive a car dangerously fast and in a risky situation a "hero"? Sheesh. Just once I'd like to see people post signs mourning the loss of our true heros: the firefighters and policemen who die in the line of duty, and those in the military who put their lives on the line to guarantee our freedom to do stupid, and senseless stuff, like waste the fuel they are fighting so hard to help us have!! Can anyone, really, justify this?

Eyvonne added-

Makes you wonder doesn't it? As far as stupid activities goes...... what about golf??? A game only for the rich.... Nascar is a sport to help people get away from the reality of the daily grind. I could name many sports that are stupid. I think baseball, football,basketball are all kinda lame when you think about how much money these people make playing a game and crying about how they aren't paid enough. But, if you don't want to read an article about it, don't read it. There are those of us who like hearing about the nascar news items being posted because we don't get a chance to watch.

As far as people posting signs mourning the young men and women who are putting thier lives on the line for our country. This is done in many areas. But, people are starting to do this in a more private way due to the psycho's who are showing up at the funerals claiming they deserved to die because they were doing something evil. That is ludicrous!!

If you don't like the articles being posted you do have the FREEDOM of choosing not to read it.

Keep the articles coming Audrey. I for one like reading them because I don't get the chance to watch the races.

Larry -

James Harris. First of all, I would like to thank you for your opinion. I am grateful we live in a country that we can share our feelings and opinions and not persecuted for it. That freedom came with a price. You are correct that young men and women given their lives for that freedom. I don't think if we spent an entire lifetime we could thank them or their families for that sacrifice. With that said, I would imagine that maybe one or two of those brave men and women found something in Dale Sr. that they saw in themselves. Maybe, just maybe, as they were sitting with their families on Sunday afternoon watching all that fuel get wasted, they were inspired by a spirit that would not take NO for an answer. A spirit that that believed that second place is just the first loser. I doubt too many drivers have had an oppurtunity to save a life, but as long as the human spirit is given a chance to express itself there will be people who enjoy watching and dare to be excellent.

So what do you think about Nascar and how the American culture embraces adrenaline induced types of sports?

For Nascar Fans and Nascar Fanatics here are some good sites to go to.

Nascar Fans Wiki - http://nascarfans.wetpaint.com/

Nascar Pictures of amazing crashes - http://www.photosbybill.com/

Nascar Racing home of Nascar - http://www.nascar.com/