Revving Up Nostalgia: Iconic 80s Sports Cars That Still Turn Heads

The 1980s: an era of bold fashion, groundbreaking music, and undeniably cool cars. When it comes to sports cars, the 80s produced a diverse range of vehicles that captured the spirit of the decade – performance, style, and a touch of rebellion. But what exactly defines an 80s sports car? Let’s clarify. We’re not talking about gas-guzzling muscle cars built for straight-line speed, nor the ultra-exclusive realm of supercars like Ferraris and Lamborghinis. Instead, we’re focusing on true sports cars: vehicles engineered for thrilling drives on winding roads, prioritizing handling and agility over brute force. These are the cars designed for those who crave the open road and the joy of driving.

If you’re drawn to the allure of classic sports cars, you’re in the right place. The 80s offered a golden age of these machines, and they remain captivating today. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a budding enthusiast looking for a project car, or simply someone who appreciates automotive history, the sports cars of the 1980s have something special to offer.

Finding pristine classic cars from this era can be challenging. Many have seen years of wear and tear, or worse, modifications that stray from their original glory. Our insights are compiled from firsthand accounts, meticulous research from dedicated car show attendees, and valuable information gleaned from online communities of passionate owners. So, buckle up and get ready to explore the definitive list of the top 80s Sports Cars.

1. 1985 Honda CRX

The Honda CRX, short for “Civic Renaissance Experimental,” emerged as a front-wheel-drive marvel, celebrated for its razor-sharp handling and spirited acceleration. Born in Japan and produced from 1983 to 1991, the CRX carved a niche for itself before paving the way for its successor, the Honda Del Sol.

Specs and Features

The 1985 Honda CRX Si model truly shone as a standout. Its fuel-injected 1.5-liter engine, delivering 91 horsepower, might seem modest by today’s standards. However, when paired with the car’s featherlight 1,819-pound curb weight, the result was an engaging driving experience. Achieving 0 to 60 mph in just over 9 seconds, the CRX Si, equipped with a sport-tuned suspension, was a joy to drive on twisty roads, proving that fun didn’t always require excessive power. Its affordability also made it accessible to a wider range of enthusiasts, solidifying its place as a beloved 80s sports car.

2. 1989 Toyota Supra MK III

The Toyota Supra, now known as the GR Supra and still bearing the torch as a dynamic sports car from Toyota’s Gazoo Racing (GR) division, boasts a rich heritage. In 1989, the Supra was in its third generation, a pivotal moment where it fully evolved from its Celica roots to establish itself as a distinct and formidable sports car lineage.

Specs and Features

While the base model 1989 Toyota Supra featured a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-six, the turbocharged variant was where the magic happened. This upgrade boosted horsepower from 200 to a robust 235, and torque surged from 196 to an impressive 254 lb-ft. The turbocharged Supra could launch from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.5 seconds, rivaling the performance figures of V-8 powered Corvettes of the same era. This blend of Japanese engineering and exhilarating performance made the 1989 Supra MK III a true icon of 80s sports car design and capability.

3. 1986 Porsche 911 Turbo

The Porsche 911 stands as an enduring symbol of sports car excellence. This rear-engined, German-engineered masterpiece has been in continuous production since 1964, cementing its legacy as one of the most successful competition cars ever created. The 911’s motorsport achievements include victories at legendary endurance races like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and consecutive World Championship for Makes titles from 1976 to 1979.

Specs and Features

Throughout the 1980s, the Porsche 911 maintained its timeless appeal with evolutionary, rather than revolutionary, changes. Initially, Porsche executives were hesitant about the future of the 911, especially in North America. However, the Porsche 911 Turbo became a sensation, capturing the hearts of American enthusiasts. Beneath the rear decklid resided the familiar 3.3-liter flat-six engine, but with the addition of a turbocharger, it unleashed a potent 300 horsepower. This power propelled the 911 Turbo from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.6 seconds, establishing it as a benchmark for 80s performance and solidifying the 911’s legendary status.

4. 1989 BMW Z1

The BMW Z1 is truly unique, most notably for its distinctive disappearing doors. Both doors are engineered to slide vertically down, disappearing into the car’s door sills via electric tracks. The 1989 BMW Z1 also pioneered the use of plastic body panels and was among the first BMW models to incorporate a multi-link rear suspension system. Born as a concept car, the Z1 defied expectations and became a limited-production success, showcasing BMW’s innovative spirit in the late 80s.

Specs and Features

If the 1989 BMW Z1 is new to you, you’re not alone. Originally a concept car, its limited production numbers mean it remains relatively obscure. However, securing a Z1 today means owning a piece of automotive history and one of the most intriguing performance cars of its time. It shared the same 2.5-liter inline-six engine found in other BMW models of the 80s, producing a respectable 168 horsepower. A standout design element was the integrated rear diffuser, cleverly incorporating the muffler and undercarriage into its aerodynamic profile, highlighting the Z1’s blend of innovation and performance.

5. 1985 Mazda RX-7

Mazda harbored ambitious plans for the Wankel rotary engine, and the RX-7 became its most iconic embodiment. Spanning three generations before its discontinuation in 2002, the RX-7 left an indelible mark on the sports car world. Enthusiasts seeking later models should note that RX-7s manufactured after 1995 are restricted in the US due to left-hand drive regulations in Japan for that period.

Specs and Features

Any credible list of top 80s sports cars must include a rotary-powered machine, and the Mazda RX-7 is the prime example. While its unique rotary engine might have seemed unconventional to some, it delivered a distinctive driving experience. For many, the RX-7 was a corner-carving marvel, providing a thrill unlike any other. The rotary engine, rated at 100 horsepower, enabled the RX-7 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 9 seconds. Its lightweight design and balanced chassis made it a favorite among driving purists who valued agility and handling prowess.

6. 1985 Toyota MR2

The mid-engined 1985 Toyota MR2 emerged from Japan as a two-seat sports car designed to deliver economical driving fun. The “Mid-engine, Runabout, 2-seater” (MR2) was marketed globally from 1984 to 2007. The MR2 holds the distinction of being the first Japanese mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe to reach the market, setting a precedent for future Japanese sports car designs.

Specs and Features

The 1985 Toyota MR2 earned accolades, including Motor Trend’s Import Car of the Year and a spot on Car and Driver’s inaugural Top Ten list. This mid-engined, two-seater sports car featured a responsive sixteen-valve, four-cylinder engine paired with a precise five-speed gearbox, producing 112 horsepower. With a top speed of around 120 mph, the MR2 was perfectly suited for spirited drives on scenic backroads, offering an engaging and balanced driving experience that belied its modest power output.

7. 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R

After a hiatus of over a decade since 1973, Nissan resurrected the Skyline nameplate in 1989 with a clear objective: to dominate racing circuits. And dominate it did. The 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R achieved legendary status on the track, earning the moniker “Godzilla” for its sheer dominance, a nickname that has endured to this day.

Specs and Features

While the base model 1989 Nissan Skyline might appear unassuming, the GT-R variant was a different beast entirely. While lesser Skyline models with smaller 1.8-liter engines or even diesel options existed, the 1989 Nissan Skyline GT-R and GTS-R were purpose-built for racing. Produced in limited numbers to meet racing homologation requirements, these GT-R models are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. The “Godzilla” lived up to its name, delivering blistering performance and rewriting the rules for Japanese sports cars on the global stage.

8. 1984 Chevrolet Corvette

The Chevrolet Corvette has graced the North American automotive landscape since 1953. By 1984, the fourth generation, the Corvette C4, was emerging, representing a significant leap forward. In the 80s, sports cars were synonymous with both luxury and performance, and the Corvette excelled at both, becoming an American icon.

Specs and Features

The Chevrolet Corvette’s reputation precedes it. In the 80s and continuing today, the ‘Vette is undeniably “the American Sports Car.” This moniker has been associated with the Corvette for decades, and for good reason. While classified as a sports car, the Corvette also possessed muscle car DNA, capable of challenging traditional muscle cars in quarter-mile sprints. The 1984 Corvette boasted the venerable 350 V8 engine, delivering 205 horsepower and a substantial 290 lb-ft of torque, making it a potent and versatile machine.

9. 1982 Datsun 280 ZX

The 1982 Datsun 280 ZX was conceived as a true sports car, and it delivered on that promise. However, the initial vision for the Z-car under the Nissan brand (as Datsun transitioned to Nissan in the 80s) prioritized comfort alongside performance. This resulted in a sports car that was not only exciting to drive but also refined and comfortable for daily use.

Specs and Features

Often playfully referred to as the “little Corvette,” the Datsun/Nissan 280 ZX was a nimble and engaging sports car weighing in at just under 3,000 pounds. Beneath its elongated hood resided a 2.8-liter inline-six engine, producing around 145 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque in naturally aspirated form. The turbocharged variant elevated performance to 180 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a slick 5-speed manual transmission (a 3-speed automatic was optional), the 280 ZX offered a spirited and well-rounded driving experience that resonated with sports car enthusiasts.

10. 1984 Nissan Pulsar NX

The Nissan Pulsar in its base form might not immediately scream “sports car,” but the Nissan Pulsar NX was a different story. This sporty variant with distinctive T-tops was directly aimed at competing with popular models like the Mazda Miata MX-5 and Toyota MR2. The Pulsar NX was lauded by many as one of the best-handling front-wheel-drive sports cars of its era.

Specs and Features

For those who grew up watching 80s television, the Japanese advertisement for the Nissan Pulsar NX might ring a bell. The ad humorously suggested the car possessed such immense power that it could blow hats off onlookers. In reality, the 1984 Pulsar NX, with its 1.6-liter inline-four producing 113 horsepower, was more about nimble handling than overwhelming power. While capable of 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 8.5 seconds, its true strength lay in its engaging driving dynamics and unique styling, making it a memorable and underrated 80s sports car.

These ten cars represent just a glimpse into the exciting world of 80s sports cars. They showcase the innovation, style, and driving pleasure that defined the decade. Whether you’re drawn to Japanese engineering, German precision, or American flair, the 1980s offered a sports car to ignite every enthusiast’s passion.