Since 1969, restaurant, hotel, travel & other witty reviews by a handpicked, worldwide team of discerning professionals—and your views, too.


Previously Featured Fun-to-Drive Cars

We're all for fuel-efficiency, sensible sedans and budget subcompacts, but when we want to let loose on the open road, we prefer one of these sleek machines. From fast and flashy convertibles to high-performance luxury coupes, our favorite fun-to-drive cars are literally a blast to drive.

Top 10 Fun-to-Drive Cars


CONVERTIBLES

A three-quarter rear view of a 2011 Ferrari California

Ferrari California
As the most affordable model in Ferrari's stable, the California is a more versatile version of the Italian automaker's iconic speed machines. However, with a 453-horsepower V8 that rockets it to a top speed of 193 mph, this stylish hardtop convertible can hardly be called tame.


A three-quarter rear view of a yellow 2013 Volkswagen Beetle TDI Convertible
Volkswagen Beetle TDI Convertible
As one of few diesel drop-tops available in the States, the Volkswagen Beetle TDI Convertible is both fun to drive and fuel-efficient, earning up to 41 mpg highway.

A front view of a 2012 Aston Martin Virage Volante

Aston Martin Virage Volante
Showcasing sleek sheet metal and a hand-built 5.9-liter, 490-horsepower V12 engine, the Aston Martin Virage Volante convertible makes for the perfect summertime ride — that is, if you can afford the $200,000+ point of entry.


A three-quarter rear view of a silver 2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder
Porsche Boxster Spyder
Featuring more horsepower and less weight than previous Boxster models (at 2,811 pounds, the Boxster Spyder is the lightest in the Porsche fleet), this romping roadster offers a pure sports car experience.

A three-quarter rear view of a blue 2011 BMW M3 Convertible

BMW M3 Convertible
Using the already-agile 3 Series convertible as a template, the amped-up M edition comes fitted with a muscular 4.0-liter, 414-horsepower V8 engine that sends the hardtop howling from 0-60 in 4.9 seconds. An advanced braking system and adjustable sport-tuned suspension complete the M3's race track-ready ride.

A three-quarter rear view of a 2010 Maserati GranTurismo Convertible
Maserati GranTurismo Convertible
This drop-top version of the GranTurismo features all of the power and performance of Maserati's distinctive speedster, now with the added attraction of open-air cruising. And with the GranTurismo's roomy interior and full back row seating, feel free to share the high-speed fun with your friends.

A side view of a 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster

Aston Martin V8 Vantage Roadster
Though it may have the same classic lines, this dashing roadster adds a sharper edge to the Aston name through improved performance, special features and a gutsier personality.


A three-quarter rear view of a yellow 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Based off the Z06, this American supercar coupe has a top speed of 205 mph and comes with a formidable 638-horsepower V8 engine, a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, all-wheel ceramic disc brakes, and standard magnetic selective ride control.


A three-quarter rear view of a 2008 BMW 128i Convertible

BMW 128i Convertible
With the option of the sky for a roof, this sporty cabriolet can crank up to 230 horsepower, and reach speeds of 130 mph on the open road. Other features include 28 mpg with extra-urban driving, an interlocking door anchoring system and brake drying.


A three-quarter front view of a red 2006 Mini Cooper S Convertible John Cooper Works

Mini Cooper S Convertible John Cooper Works
Everything about this car screams fun. The unforgettable looks, the nifty convertible top, the go-kart handling and with the special JCW package, 207 horsepower. If you can't have a good time in this Mini, check your pulse.


COUPES

A three-quarter rear view of a Cadillac CTS-V Coupe
Cadillac CTS-V Coupe
With a 556-horsepower V8 under the hood, this Cadillac is a tire-shredding hot rod dressed in neatly creased bodywork.

A three-quarter rear view of a red 2012 Mini Cooper S Coupe
Mini Cooper S Coupe
Showcasing race-inspired looks and a quick, turbocharged inline-4 with direct injection to match, the all-new Mini Cooper S Coupe trades in the English badge's trademark cute and quirky image for a sleek, sexy and — dare we say — dangerous new persona.

A three-quarter rear view of a 2006 Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe

Dodge Viper SRT10 Coupe
This snake packs one vicious bite. Now in its second generation, this American performance icon's gargantuan 8.3-liter V10 engine churns out an internal-organ-squashing 510 horsepower.


A three-quarter front view of a 2008 Audi R8

Audi R8
This is Audi's first entry in the premium sports car category. The 420-horsepower V8 reaches 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and tops out at a governed 187 mph. The mid-engine placement and all-wheel drive makes it a very well-balanced handler.


A three-quarter front view of a red 2007 Porsche Cayman

Porsche Cayman
Although not as powerful as the S model, the regular Cayman is still a lot of fun, with its razor-sharp handling and smooth, efficient "boxer" six-cylinder engine.


HATCHBACKS

A three-quarter front view of a black Fiat 500 Abarth Hatchback
Fiat 500 Abarth
With a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-4 and a tiny footprint, the Fiat 500 Abarth makes for a sporty city car that is both fun to drive and easy to park.

A three-quarter front view of a blue 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX 5-Door
Subaru Impreza WRX 5-Door
Coming standard with a 265-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinders, the Subaru Impreza WRX 5-Door is one fast hatch. And with the addition of symmetrical all-wheel drive and nearly 45 cubic feet of cargo room, the WRX 5-Door makes for a great all-purpose, all-weather vehicle.

SEDANS

A three-quarter front view of a 2012 Dodge Charger SXT Plus

Dodge Charger SXT Plus
Channeling the spirit of the original Dodge Charger, which made its debut as a coupe in the mid-1960's, this updated take on the storied muscle car may have four doors; however, it retains its racer's spirit.


A side view of a Mars Red 2010 Mercedes-Benz C63

Mercedes-Benz C63
This high performance sports sedan, loaded with a hand-built 6.2-liter, naturally aspirated V8 engine, cranks out an astounding (and barely legal) 420 horsepower that is sure to satisfy all of your high-speed Formula 1 fantasies.

A three-quarter rear view of a white 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR
Athletically designed, this swift five-passenger sedan shows off a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a pavement-gripping all-wheel drive and an efficient six-speed Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission.

Top 10 Fun-to-Drive Cars

Read All Car Reviews

PNW043010
URM090314