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Speed is thrilling, but it can also cost you dearly. Many drivers dream of buying a sports car, especially when they have the cash to spend and a need for speed. But not so fast – see what we did there?
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Before you invest in a flashy coupe or muscle car, it’s worth asking: are you really getting your money’s worth? GOBankingRates talks to auto expert Chris Pyle just answerTo highlight which sports cars aren’t worth the price – and why some fast rides may leave you with buyer’s remorse rather than adrenaline.
nissan z
Regarding the Nissan Z, Chris Pyle commented, “All the stopping power but weak brakes.” Its ABS system has serious problems, as he explained, “Often the ABS thinks you are losing control and degrades engine performance.”
Also, he said that the car requires expensive 93 octane fuel. Performance cars are notorious for charging you more at the pump.
Audi r8
- MSRP: $161,395 to $253,290
Audis are sleek and gorgeous – but this special edition could also be a money-spinner. “Cars are not investments, but it’s a madness that they lose 50% of their value over a four- to five-year period,” Pyle said. He pointed out that even basic maintenance is quite expensive and this is before taking into account “expensive loan, insurance and repair costs”.
The Audi R8 is rumored to make a comeback in 2027 (its last redesign was released in 2023), but the price is estimated to be $210,000 to $225,000, which is pretty spicy, no matter what your standards.
Jaguar F-Type
- MSRP: $79,175 to $116,275
There’s no denying that the Jaguar F-Type is a beautiful car, but it can also drain your bank account. According to Pyle, “[It]ticks every box for what you want and like from a car.” But, once the warranty expires, he said “you’ll be at the dealership more often for engine electrical issues.”
toyota supra
Fast & Furious fans, listen up. Pyle advised staying away from the four-cylinder version of the Toyota GR Supra. He compared the two, saying, “The six-cylinder is amazing.” The real problem? “Some of the parts under the hood are not made by Toyota; they are BMW, which makes them difficult to get on time,” he explained.
chevy camaro
Many of us want a piece of Americana – and what’s more American than a Chevy Camaro? There will probably be a hefty bill that comes with owning it. “It has reached end of life. So, parts will become scarce,” Pyle said. He was also not impressed with recent models. “The quality is really affordable inside and out,” he said. For future value? “(It) will just aggregate people who are offering you a lot less value than you think,” he said.
Caitlin Moorehead contributed reporting to this article.