What is a sports car?

[Justin]

So what is it then, that qualifies a car as a sports car. Must it be fast? must it be a convertible? rear wheel drive? mid engined?

For example, is the Merc SLK a sports car? Is the BMW M5 a sports car? :confused:

It doesn't really matter, I suppose, but I know that an Alfa 156 1.8 with a sports pack :rolleyes: isn't a sports car to me, so does anyone disagree? have any identifying criteria?

[WhipLash]

Jesus Justin, you're getting a bit too fond of asking difficult questions now aren't you! http://www.eforecourt.com/UBB/evil.gif http://www.eforecourt.com/UBB/clown1.gif OK, so here goes my impression of a sports car, but as always I'm probably talking complete ****e http://www.eforecourt.com/UBB/sick.gif. I suppose it would have to be made with a light body, and definitely be a two seater. Rear wheel drive would help add to the 'sporting' feel, but I'm sure there's a few examples that would dispute this. Also, it would have to be low hung, stiffened suspension and a big set of alloy wheels (17"+ ?). A convertible does add to the look, but I'm not convinced that it’s a necessary element of a sports car, as IMO its cosmetic rather then lending to a sportier ride. A short gearing adds to the feeling, and I suppose it defiantly has to have over 200BHP to be even considered, and maybe a 0-60 of under 6.5 seconds? So if we were to put the BMW M5 up against these credentials, then it’s certainly not one, but simply a very fast (the fastest?) saloon. IMO, a sports car should be at its best on narrow winding roads, hugging the bends nimbly, and not a comfortable cruiser on the likes of a long straight motorway. And BTW, IMO the Alfa 156 1.8 sports doesn’t even come close!

So there we have it. I await the more ‘knowledgeable’ replies that will ridicule and belittle me as usual http://www.eforecourt.com/UBB/disgust.gif

[SpyCamera]

A sports car is a man best friend during the summer months. Pull up out side the beer garden in your freshly washed/ waxed car and you've pulled. http://www.eforecourt.com/UBB/groovy.gif

Oh yeah a small tip to you guys who are going to win the Lotto this week end, make sure you rev the engine a few times as you pull in, just in case the girls were'nt blinded by the shine on your car. :p

Remember lads your sports car is your best friend. http://www.eforecourt.com/UBB/smoke.gif :D

[This message has been edited by SpyCamera (edited 05 April 2000).]

[WhipLash]

So what's your idea of a sports car then Justin (apart from the Boxster, that is ;))?