@@rdiamond655 Yeah. Lotus put out some press cars for initial reviews, but I suspect that after those they are behind in deliveries to actual customers.
Being a former owner of an Elise, a 911, and current owner of a C8 convertible, I’ll say this: The Elise was great for what I bought it for. I wanted an outlandish, purpose built, drivers sports car - and that’s exactly what the Elise was. Fun to drive. People loved talking to me about it. And a truly rare car on American roads. The downside was it was aging and repairs on a foreign 18 yr old sports car were not going to become less frequent or less expensive. Plus, it really was like a skate board with an engine. You feel EVERY crack in the road, every pot hole, and every pebble. My 911 was a manual 996, and I never really bonded with it. Was pretty bland and vanilla. Underpowered. Boring interior, and bland exterior, despite having factory aero kit. But this was a 99, so the newer models are much better. The C8 is a sports car that rides like a luxury sedan but drives like a sports car. Has loads of tech with the 2 LT pkg, has 495 HP, and the hard top convertible retracts with a tough of a button. Amazing looks and a full factory warranty was too much to pass up. People love this car and approach me all the time to talk about it. But these guys are right in that it feels very much like a luxury car when driving it. If there’s one thing I can say for certain, it’s that life is a series of trade offs, and it’s difficult to have everything. Enjoy what you have until it’s time for the next chapter.
Considered any of the newer Lotus’ after the Elise? I think one will be my first purpose built sports car, still really like my Macan for everything else.
@@ChilledNurseyou can absolutely keep sporty alive! The Alfa is a great sedan, embrace the fun and practical life of hot hatches, buy a wagon, or go with the hot SUVs! There’s even some fun to drive electric ones out there. Fun doesn’t have to die at the birth of a kid.
370 hp with a twin turbo?! How is that low of a number even possible. I would have to imagine Porsche is giving fake numbers as people have discovered previously
@@peterjordansonthe2nd731 GT3 and RS are about 500hp, then tbe Turbo models... This is just a 3.0 Turbo flat 6, could make more, with that capacity and price, but Porsches are expensive...
I'm SO glad you guys made this fantastic video. I don't think you guys get the attention you deserve. A fully produced, well thought out, full comparison of modern cars, for FREE on RUclips. Please don't stop making videos for us car people!
@mikeLOL45424 - Idk about you, but I pay $100 a month just for phone and Internet, so I'm not watching this for "FREE". Not to mention the cost of my Dell.
As a 2nd gen BRZ owner, my choice for pure fun would be the Elise. The reason I bought a BRZ instead is the lack of any refinement with the Elise means I wouldn't want to drive it on regular roads, not even to get to the track or to the mountains or even occasionally to work. Maybe that means I'm getting old but having a basic baseline of comfort and refinement is important to me even for a weekend car. So I got the BRZ and am loving it so far. Great balance of lightweight driving enjoyment and refinement. I'd also consider something like a Cayman GTS 4.0 as a more expensive expression of that same concept.
Same for me. Bought a 2nd gen brz 6 speed limited. Was cross shopping 981 caymans, 987 rs. The price factor on new brz with warranty was too huge to pass up. Driving experience is almost as good as cayman base or s.
I'm walking the opposite direction lol. I'm 57 and after years of family/practical cars I dropped coil overs in my Miata (NC with atrocious seats) and I daily drive that with the coil overs set at 8, which is the baseline track setting. My wife really doesn't even like to sit in the car, much less ride in it. I drive the "F" out of it. It's MY "zen" time. On the occasions my wife does ride with me she "gets" why I love it; she just has a bad back and every pebble wears on her after a bit. Me I don't care, I walked for twenty years on a disintegrating hip joint, I can handle a little rough in the ride lol. What I'd really like to have is a "virtually race built but street legal" Fiat X/19 dropped to around 1600 lbs and maybe 225 horsepower. I all I really NEED is heat, AC, lights, Garmin GPS, and necessary gauges. I'd even ditch the AC but it gets really hot and humid here in the Southern Appalachians.
Everyday Driver continues to be the upper crust of car content because you guys do SO well describing the experience of actually driving and living with the cars you have.
@@EverydayDriverI also love the content, but what does this first part mean (5:45) “I’d like to 4250, but as it is with all these cars, I’m happy leaving them perfectly stock exactly where they are at”
I sold my 911 turbo and I now own a GR86. It is the Todd part of my brain. I don't fear bills/tyres/brakes, I don't fear doing a handbrake 180 in the road and I don't have that nagging feeling I'm being a fool with my own money when I do a track day in it.
@@Toolaceno, the gr86 can't fit nearly enough tire to handle 400-500hp. People already spin these cars left and right. You'd need 200tw 245s just to have a chance at handling that power, and most people would rather run regular 300tws or 500tw AS tires. Plus, inline 6s are really, really long. The car would need an even longer wheelbase to fit it, which would kill the car. There's a reason the supra only has 2 seats. The GR86 is far more practical. Imo just a turbo inline 4 like the K20C in the type-R would have sufficed. Or yeah, the GR Corolla motor. If we really want to stay NA, making the car a bit wider and putting a toyota V6 in would have made more sense. Those make 311hp and sound great. Plus they're dead reliable. But NA V6s are dead everywhere else in the world because of displacement taxes.
I love that you guys have put some emphasis on price and how a high price tag can take away from the fun of driving and owning it. It’s the reason why I’ve had my 2009 cayman for 10 years now. I absolutely ring its neck on track, take it on skiing holidays and summer trips all over Europe. I don’t worry about depreciation or wether I can afford to bin it hehe
Todd is 100% on point on the Elise. Pure driving enjoyment and nothing else. What I would love to see is him being able to drive a S1 Elise since they’re old enough to legally import in the US and do a comparison with his US spec S2!
Thanks guys. No one does car comparisons like you do. You make it fun, and real, and really fun! I think my two favs are the 86 and the 911. Keep ‘em coming, guys.
I've driven my buddies 991 Carrera T and it is so much fun. He also had it on a dyno last year and it made 407hp at the wheels, despite Porsche stating it makes "370hp". It may be the perfect blend of usable power and handling for nice mountain pass blasts imo.
I’m a work truck guy, I tow, I haul, construction sites, recycling centers, etc. but I want to buy the GR86 because the experience must be outstanding for the price.
Being a Lotus Elise 250 Cup owner I can only say that the comments Todd and Paul make about the Elise are all precisely spot on! Love the videos and the reviews ❤❤
Great video as always! I have a Kona N, a compromised thing, but for the price it was the most fun i could have with a hatch and ground clearance. Fun is important!
Well guys, another fantastic comparison! I have been asking myself this question since 1990. In 1994 I sold my TR6 and, for the first time, broke my string of British sports cars. I bought a Miata. I drove that car for 4 years and loved every minute of it (including all the road trips)! Life then happened and I drove a series of cars that could do family duty but might be a little fun. In 2010 I was back in the market for a car and I found a 1994 Miata in the spec I would have bought in 94 if I could have afforded it. It is British Racing Green with a tan top and interior and it has all the options! It has been my spring, summer, and fall commuter as well as auto cross and road trip car. It is in fantastic original condition and I still love it! I have driven lots of other sports cars and enjoyed most of them but I always come back to the NA Miata. No other car I have driven is as much fun as that slow, little, corner carver!
Todd and Paul, You do a great job showing cars for what they are. People looking for a fun to drive car can use the information you provide to choose the one that is best for them. As I watch this, it is clear to me which is the best car for me and I can see how others can come to different conclusions based on what they value. I bought the BRZ, in part, based on your comparison of the BRZ to the GR86 in another video. You said the GR86 was the better car but you provided the information that allowed me to see why you though it was better for you but how the BRZ was better for what I was looking for in a sports car. People will complain about cars missing from the comparison. They are right. A complete comparison to cover everyone's needs would include a dozen or more cars and take 5 hours and be impossible to produce.
I own a 2011 Lamborghini Gallardo and a 1993 Corvette. I love them both for different reasons but driving the corvette with no worries is a lot of fun. My mom constantly reminds me I talk about the Vette more than the lambo. Great vid. Great cars guys !
If fun is what you are looking may I suggest a Miata. My nb1 cost me under 5k and already had a hard dog roll bar, lsd, great manual transmission, excellent hydraulic steering and only weighs 2,299lbs. It is fun at any speed and it didn’t break the bank.
I had doubts about this video due to the length, but it was worth the time. I want a 991 911, but I'm with Todd on affordable fun. The most fun car I've owned was a 2002 Audi TT convertible. Small, manual transmission, go-kart handling, and while it wasn't fast by any measure, the torque made it feel faster than it was. Put the top down, find a twisty road, and I was happy. Out the door price was $25k. Drove it until it died.
To say the lotus is older and still giving smiles per miles says to me technology separates, old school mechanics gives fun and engagement. Thanks for sharing 👍
I go through cars. Currently enjoying a 2019 GT3RS. But one I will never get rid of is my 2006 Exige, which I bought new. Can't recommend it to very many people, but when somebody expresses an interest in the fun of driving, and they already have something else to daily, the Lotus gets my nod. I try to let other people drive it, if they're interested, to spread the joy.
Some of the most fun I’ve had: ‘09 STi tuned, e46 M3, GR86, ‘19 SS1LE, F80 M3 manual, integra type S and c8 Z06. Some great cars but less fun than expected: 718 GT4, 718 Boxster S, ‘16 M6 gran coupe, F80 M3 DCT, G80 M3CS
I have no bias against any of the cars you chose. I chose my 2022 gr86 and 2020 c8 ( now 2023 z06). Knowing each car is great from what I do have gives me great respect to all sports cars and supercars. All unique. All fun.
Great video, and something definitely to talk about. We all dream for the hyper/super cars, but at the end it is all about big smile. I have owned GR86, Miata, Porsche 911. I would go with GR86 any day!
I owned a GR86 and it was excellent but I actually prefer my Miata since it weighs 500lbs less and has actual feedback from the hydraulic rack. (Nb1) Side note I raced a 981 GTS PDK on track and while it’s out of my budget it was damn near perfection.
@@CruiseControl1Miata's are great for sure, I loved it. The only reason I sold her was, I am not into convertible. But it is light and nimble (sometimes too nimble).
@@TheJumboJetDriver I have always preferred a coupe to a convertible, my first car was a 79 280z. However when I drove the nb1 with a hard dog roll bar it blew my mind and I have yet to drive something that puts more smiles on my face at such low speeds. I get what you are saying though with the nimble aspect, I choose to keep the power low and the tires cheep so the breakaway is linear and predictable.
@@CruiseControl1 I had a AE NB too. Was neat, I had the roll over bars and 5point harness and all. But something was missing for me. But again great fun, 50 felt like you were doing 100 already!
Great video! I would likely choose the Elise. I’ve never owned one even though it was my dream car for years. It never seemed practical and I had kids and such to haul around. I have owned some really nice fast cars that were relatively fun. I shudder when I think of all the money I’ve spent over the last couple of decades looking for a car that I really enjoy. While on vacation with the family last summer I saw a Mazda Miata RF in a grocery store parking lot. I had never even considered a Miata. So I went and drove one and bought it on the spot. I’ve really enjoyed driving it since. It’s not really fast but it is super engaging. I do find myself laughing out loud occasionally.
I own a 911T near same spec as the one in the video, and I can’t wait to also get a new 86. They punch way out of their class. Just because you may have the “dream car” doesn’t mean you also don’t list after “cheaper” options
Awesome to see these cars compared just for raw enjoyment! I feel like my perspective aligns with Todd more but I love the balance Paul provides as someone less concerned with price and maybe more interested in speed
I own an Elise, an Alfa Romeo 4C and I did own an Evora. I've driven many other cars but at the end of the day, nothing beats the Elise. It's an absolute scalpel and proper weapon on a tight mountain road.
I own a supercharged Elise with about 310 HP at the crank. It’s so fun. The handling is unbelievable and the supercharger makes it as quick as you would want it to be for anything other than a drag race. I’ve never driven anything that compares to the feeling of driving it
There are so many things that go into the most fun car. I owned an Elise and it was the most car I've ever driven. Second to me would be the first generation MR2, which isn't surprising because MR2 fans call the Elise a 4th gen MR2. But getting in and out of the Elise while commuting to work then again to go out to lunch then again to commute home, well, watch Jeremy Clarkson's review and see how he gets out. To that end, the GR86/BRZ/FRS is much easier to get in and out and could indeed be left in the Stop & Shop parking, with the radio on. The Porsche would worry me because Porsche haters WILL key your car left in a Wal Mart parking lot for 20 minutes. The McLaren, boy, I'd be afraid of things going wrong which defines McLarens. And hybrid? I have watched all of Freddy's videos on the P1 rebuild and I would have zero faith in the electric part. The Corvette is indeed a bargain supercar. I just wish 2 things. First, that they add a proper manual transmission. I mean....did the Chevy bean counters not notice that a manual Lamborghini Merci costs now double what an e gear one does? And second, I wish it were 3/4 the size. It is ginormous. Maybe 7/8th size.
I think that what really limits the McLaren when they become somewhat attainable is the maintenance of the electronics which would be horrific and frustrating.
I've had two 1st gen MR2's and it was such a blast. The clutch take up was soo wide n' easy and the manual was snick snick fun. And the steering wheel was soo stiff to turn. Felt like a slot car.
I came across this video and love it. Thank you both. I am an original owner a 2006 Elise as a fun car for the weekend rides. And, wow, it is the best car I ever owned! I have been shopping for my dream car: a 911, C8, a Ferrari, and even a MCL. Test drove them all, and, suddenly I realized that I already have my dream car in my garage! Thank you for reinforced my conviction! Lotus Elise is it!
Excellent piece, I was looking forward to watching all week and enjoyed on the big screen as you recommended last night. The highlight for me was the overhead still shot of the quarter mile performance, such a creative way to demonstrate and “feed” that audience. Keep up the passionate work, thank you for all the content you guys put out and rejuvenating my desire and interests in all things with four wheels.
Wow! This episode will definitely explode❤, and from my experience is more Money can’t get you more fun. I’m definitely having more fun in my EVO than any pure sports/super car I rented in the past (911, 987 Cayman R, Alfa 4C, also the R35 GTR)
Very enjoyable review to watch. Thank you! For most of us in everyday driving - safety is a part of the picture. I really loved the C5 Z06. But I never felt safe on the road in it. Same with most cars that weigh close to or less than 3,000 lbs. And in my opinion many cars that cost more than about $70K are boring on the street for everyday driving unless you can get the road closed and ignore speed limits. So really they are good for the track only - if you can afford to risk the money on track and the car can hold up to track use. To me anything with an automatic is not even worth looking at. The cars you selected really reflect how personal this is. I do agree the GR86 is great. I really liked mine. The rest of the cars are too capable for the street or somewhat unsafe in heavy traffic in my opinion. Not that good for everyday driving.
Had the new GR86 in auto, regretted transmission choice at times but truly enjoyed it. Took to track and had for about a year and 10k miles. Traded for a WRX that was a lemon, which was a heartbreaking shame. Actually waited months on a wait list for another GR86 with a stick, but due to Toyotas allocation system with my dealer, it wasn’t going to happen. Now custom ordered a new Mustang GT. What I think should be said about these cars is the special feeling for the individual, for the new experiences. With not being pressured from others or yourself to get a specific version that doesn’t fit your life style. Just try to appreciate the cars for what they are despite the flaws as long as it makes you (the individual) excited/happy. Some cars like the 86 (if it’s small size and loud interior works for you) are just unbeatable values where I see more value of having that plus a Prius (~60k in total) than one compromised luxury sports sedan for that price.
I have a '23 BRZ, '23 Type R, and '15 EVO X. Type R is the most capable and focused, and very fun to drive. BRZ is a great drivers car and great learning tool. EVO is a rental car but a riot on twisty roads and the track. Thanks so much for this comparison I will continue to enjoy and keep my BRZ!
@mophoplz I daresay, its the BRZ. Nothing beats lightweight and a low center of gravity. I been driving the snot out of my cars lately too, including the racetracks.
Great video guys!! You guys have convinced me to add a new Emira to the garage. However, I need to give up my ND2 to make room. I’m not convinced I’m not making a mistake. Congratulations on a great piece of content!!
Love that you guys come to different conclusions on the rank order of the cars. It just confirms that you can disagree with your car buddy and still have a great time.
I am an owner of a GT86 for about 4 years now. All I can say is it's such a bang for your buck! I bought it used for around 15k USD which was a bargain. With a Milltek exhaust on it sounds amazing and catches some eyes if you're into that. Also it's probably the best daily driver from all of these cars. I went to IKEA with it, went snowboarding and squeezed 4 people in it. It works just fine. I love this car so much.
Awesome vid guys, great idea, great cars, great comparo! As a first gen BRZ driver who has "fixed" its short comings (torque dip 😉), I often "worry" about my next car because I worry I won't find something as magical. I one day will be writing my own car debate to the podcast 😎. Thanks again for the amazing video
I had a flashed Brz and it really helped the dip. The new one is way better with the torque. Displacement was the fix here. It also sounds better (after you disconnect the fake engine noise).
Gr corolla hatch 39k, AMAZING daily driver. Ariel atom 500, 55k, go cart with nuclear bomb in back. Aptera, 48k (lol you say?) 0-60, 3.5s, never needs fuel; ever! Put down my deposit last month after getting rid of model s. Ford gt, 95k, cheap only because of 2008 recession. Ducati 1198, 12k, my favorite. Way cheaper than their list, and i get to keep all of them.
The C8 needs a manual - period. Imagine how epic the C8 Z06 would be rowing the gears with that screaming FPC engine! Even Ferrari didn’t give us that! Love this comparison! The Lotus is timeless! Todd (with a baby in his arms): 2006 is not that long ago (hands keys to his now 18yo) 😂
Great video Paul, Todd and your crew! Tons of great info for us to think about when selecting a car purchase! Also @ 36:00 I love the Ferris Bueller quote Todd says; "if you have the means..." 😅 Also thanks to the car owners that lent EverydayDriver their rides to make this video! Cheers! 😎
These cars are all fun to drive and I would say sport cars in the past 20 are fast but drivability and exclusivity is what makes the more expensive cars better 😊. I have a audi tt mk2 manual transmission and it’s vr6 engine is a joy to drive and it hit all the points of what a sport car should be looks good sounds great handles really good and its fast up top for its time period but not so fast that it’s out of control 😊
I echo Todd's sentiment about his Lotus, the motto of "simplify, and add lightness" really does go a long way. Part of that is sacrificing creature comforts, which in some ways I would argue makes a car feel more focused, and therefore special. Not comfortable necessarily, but special. My AW11 MR2 fits into that category. It doesn't have air conditioning, the stereo system is miserably worn out and things are constantly wearing out due to age or neglect that I wind up fixing. But nothing, absolutely nothing drives like it and makes the sounds that it does with a 20-valve blacktop. You'd have to go well into the $40k range to get that, and even if I threw a whole new coat of paint at it (on top of mods/repairs) I wouldn't even have spent half of that.
Having driven four out of five on the track (have not had a chance to drive the McLaren), all are great cars. Toyota is the most practical daily driver. Porsche has the best combination of daily drivability, performance, and fun. Chevy has the most performance for the track, and is daily usable. Lotus is the most fun (it feels like a go-cart in a good way). If I was to choose one (price independent) it would have to be Porsche. My price dependant choice for a daily driver fun car (fun per dollar) is Toyota. If we take daily drivability out of the equation, my top choice for canyon carving or around the track is Lotus all day.
@@ThePikmin18 I never said the Elise was bad in anyway, for me it’s not worth the cost, a McLaren f1, LFA, 918, all these cars might be great. For me I’m good with my Miata.
You need a "cost per fun" stat. Take the costs, and divide that by your average fun ratings. Done that way, One fun in the GR86 only costs $8,559.73, vs the McLaren where one fun costs a whopping $77,113.33. Heck, at that price, you could take several years off work and have 4 fun in a GR86 for the cost of the same amount of fun in the McLaren, but where you'd still have to trudge to work every day for several years. I know which I'd prefer. :)
a hypermiling simplified prius type car focused on effiency with some momentum preservation tricks and the baility to switch off power steering, would be the best balance.
What an awesome premise and a fantastic array of cars! As always you guys nailed it with the insight and the nuances that must really make this a great day for you both. Here's the question: How would your respective top three fair against an early edition Miata (NA, NB or NC)? Something that is cheaper still and still makes people laugh in the corners...just a thought.
The premise of my curiosity comes from something that Todd said during their Cheap Sports Car Challenge while on The Million Dollar Highway. It was something like buy a cheap sports car and have as much fun as someone who spent $30k, $80k or $200k...sure my recollection on the numbers might be off but the basis is the same. Also, Paul said during the review of the NB Miata that you're having 82% more fun than everyone else on the road, not 83% because it's empirical data that he collected. I'd love for those notions to be tested, not that the Miata will do as well in any of the categories but will the Miata be less fun?
I have quite the fun on a 2008 Subaru legacy sedan 3.0 flat 6 manual that i got for 5k spent 2k making it perfect. Sounds bananas and its a car you guys have to try with some other sedans for a budget sporty sedan lineup . Always great vids
I had an FRS and now have a 991.2 Carrera T. Both are great. I had a lot of reliability issues with the FRS, limp mode at track days, but I loved it. The 911.2 has had zero issues. Also, a $1000 tune gets you 100 hp+ which add another level of fun.
Recently took my C8 HTC Z51 3LT on a 1,000 mile road trip to Western North Carolina around Asheville, Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, Crowder's Mountain. It was fantastic on the highway and a blast on the twisty smoky mountain roads. Picked it over an AMG GT-C Roadster and Lexus LC 500. I put miles on my cars.
Well done Gents. I know with these group tests there are always some cars missing from the line up. Imho, apart from the Elise, the car that you should have picked for being the most enjoyable, visceral car is a Caterham. Maybe next time….BTW many McLaren engineers are ex Lotus.
Really great video once again! Maybe the last model MR2 (also one time winner in the Cheap Sports Car Video) is a good compromise between the GR86 and the Elise. Drive it on a mountain pass and it 'll give you plenty of smiles per gallon and per turn😁. Keep up the good work guys and already looking forward to the next video👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Before you actually fight me, both are incredibly fun to drive cars that I enjoy spending time in, you literally can't make a bad decision between the two.
I’m not here to fight and I owned a 22 gr86 and loved it. I now own an nb1 Miata that I enjoy much more. 500lbs lighter, feedback from the hydraulic rack, excellent manual and it’s more fun at all speeds in my opinion. Like you said though both are great cars!
@@CruiseControl1 Fair! I much prefer the suspension tuning on the 86 out of the box and real gauges for track use, but I prefer the engines in the ND and I'm bummed at the lack of gauges in the Mazda for track/autox use. Different things appeal to different people and I'm glad you found a car that fits you better!
@@Dirtsmith My Miata is older as it’s an nb1 (99 model year). I actually prefer the suspension of the older Miata vs the newer ND. As for gauges mine are old school analog and work great. In the looks department I preferred my GR86 in beautiful Neptune blue. My least favorite thing about my gr86 was the lack of feedback in the steering. Both are awesome and I like going on drives through Colorado mtn roads with Miata drivers and GR86/BRZ twins.
@@CruiseControl1 I get my feedback through my body so steering feedback is more annoying than anything for me because it creates hand and wrist fatigue over time but I still find the feedback in the 86 to be fine at the limit. By gauges I mean various types of temp gauges and oil pressure, oddly missing from the Miata and not easy to add after the fact.
What an awesome video guys. Loved every minute of it. I also feel like you guys nailed it. I myself am trying to get into more faster/special cars. Went from ND2 to Lotus Elise and wanting a Porsche but i feel the higher the price the more worried i get driving it. The Mazda ND2 was the most fun car i owned. Just top down and not stressing and enjoying life. This is the video i needed and i will get myself a ND2 again someday 😊
@@N3rdburgring It's more about the functionality. It's easier to daily drive the miata and the roads in Belgium s*ck bigtime so comfort is needed here ^^ The Elise is better on track, and for a "Canyon" drive i need to take the car on a road trip for 2 days. Now i just need to work out how to keep the elise and buy the miata as a 3rd car -.-
C8 wins hands down! Looks exotic but can be daily driven, mid engine, 500hp, 0-60 3 secs, lots of storage in trunk and frunk, msrp of 68.3 for 2024, cant and wont beat that C8 wins!
I'll stick with my stickshift 2017 Corvette C7. The C7 is quick enough 0-60 in 3.8 seconds with stickshift and a removeable roof and loud exhaust, that I'd rather have fun. If I were ever to upgrade to another sports car, I'd be willing to give up the removable roof for these cars: - Lotus Emira - Alpine A110
Thanks for the video, guys; had a blast watching it. I can really relate to some of Todd's thoughts about how weight affects your enjoyment of a car. I have a heavier car now as a fun car and am thinking about going back to a MX-5 (or possibly a GR86) simply because, while slower, I really find myself missing the lighter weight and the feeling through the chassis. When I had my previous MX-5, and before that a 2018 BRZ, they were so much fun to drive, and so engaging, even if they weren't the fastest things on the road. They were enjoyable at any speed, whereas now I feel like I have to really push my car to make it come alive.
@@CruiseControl1 My current fun car is a 2022 Camaro 2SS 1LE. It is hugely capable, and a lot of fun to drive. But you feel the weight, and you feel the size, and the limits are so high that there's no way I can even come close on public roads. Most of the time I feel like the car is bored. The MX-5 I had prior (and the BRZ I had a car or two before that) weren't even close if you go by numbers, but they were more fun, more of the time, because the limits were so approachable and their light weight made the cars feel more alive even at lower speeds.
@@CruiseControl1 This is my first American V8. I wanted to try one before they were all gone, and I'd always been intrigued by the 6th gen Camaro. Really happy to have gotten a chance to experience it, but I'm really thinking about going back to a lightweight sports car. As you said, a different experience.
@@saviordream The alpha platform is amazing and an unpopular opinion I preferred the v6 1le to the v8 1le both are track focused and handle brilliant though. What are you thinking of getting now?
Its amazing how timeless the elise looks. It really doesn't look like its any older of a design than when it was new.
The Emira would have been an interesting car to add to this mix. But I imagine that after the initial release tests, that car is unobtainium.
@@jimiverson3085 I think it was simply about availability, and the Emira just isn't yet.
@@rdiamond655
Yeah. Lotus put out some press cars for initial reviews, but I suspect that after those they are behind in deliveries to actual customers.
it makes me want to yell "Pikachu"!
Can you believe the first S2s are over 20 years old now? I still find myself stopping and staring at my 111R in the garage.
Being a former owner of an Elise, a 911, and current owner of a C8 convertible, I’ll say this:
The Elise was great for what I bought it for. I wanted an outlandish, purpose built, drivers sports car - and that’s exactly what the Elise was. Fun to drive. People loved talking to me about it. And a truly rare car on American roads. The downside was it was aging and repairs on a foreign 18 yr old sports car were not going to become less frequent or less expensive. Plus, it really was like a skate board with an engine. You feel EVERY crack in the road, every pot hole, and every pebble.
My 911 was a manual 996, and I never really bonded with it. Was pretty bland and vanilla. Underpowered. Boring interior, and bland exterior, despite having factory aero kit. But this was a 99, so the newer models are much better.
The C8 is a sports car that rides like a luxury sedan but drives like a sports car. Has loads of tech with the 2 LT pkg, has 495 HP, and the hard top convertible retracts with a tough of a button. Amazing looks and a full factory warranty was too much to pass up. People love this car and approach me all the time to talk about it. But these guys are right in that it feels very much like a luxury car when driving it.
If there’s one thing I can say for certain, it’s that life is a series of trade offs, and it’s difficult to have everything. Enjoy what you have until it’s time for the next chapter.
Considered any of the newer Lotus’ after the Elise? I think one will be my first purpose built sports car, still really like my Macan for everything else.
Sounds like you need an 86 next!
Just had my first baby, safe to say my Giulia will be the end of the sporty car chapter. Next chapter is SUVs and Minivans 🥺
@@ChilledNurseyou can absolutely keep sporty alive! The Alfa is a great sedan, embrace the fun and practical life of hot hatches, buy a wagon, or go with the hot SUVs! There’s even some fun to drive electric ones out there. Fun doesn’t have to die at the birth of a kid.
who ARE youuu?
Quote of a lifetime "I hate being susceptible to expensive things"
370 hp with a twin turbo?! How is that low of a number even possible. I would have to imagine Porsche is giving fake numbers as people have discovered previously
@@peterjordansonthe2nd731 GT3 and RS are about 500hp, then tbe Turbo models...
This is just a 3.0 Turbo flat 6, could make more, with that capacity and price, but Porsches are expensive...
Fancy seeing you here. I used my crypto earnings to get a C8 lol
I like "Zero to 60 in under 3 seconds... does that mean I'm having more fun?"
(Yes, yes it does!)
I like to look at my car in the garage. C8 all the way. Lotus is ugly as hell. GR86 is a fart can. Porsche is a rear engine nightmare.
I'm SO glad you guys made this fantastic video. I don't think you guys get the attention you deserve. A fully produced, well thought out, full comparison of modern cars, for FREE on RUclips. Please don't stop making videos for us car people!
Thank you for watching! We're glad you recognize the effort we put into our work. Glad to have you with us!
Great format. Unlike a certain silly goose channel where they focus on those daily track days that we all have the time and sponsor for 😂
@mikeLOL45424 - Idk about you, but I pay $100 a month just for phone and Internet, so I'm not watching this for "FREE". Not to mention the cost of my Dell.
I can't take their comments seriously. Its not for me I guess, especially when they say paying 80k for a C8 and it drives for you.
As a 2nd gen BRZ owner, my choice for pure fun would be the Elise. The reason I bought a BRZ instead is the lack of any refinement with the Elise means I wouldn't want to drive it on regular roads, not even to get to the track or to the mountains or even occasionally to work. Maybe that means I'm getting old but having a basic baseline of comfort and refinement is important to me even for a weekend car. So I got the BRZ and am loving it so far. Great balance of lightweight driving enjoyment and refinement. I'd also consider something like a Cayman GTS 4.0 as a more expensive expression of that same concept.
2nd gen BRZ is a great choice, well done.
Same for me. Bought a 2nd gen brz 6 speed limited. Was cross shopping 981 caymans, 987 rs. The price factor on new brz with warranty was too huge to pass up. Driving experience is almost as good as cayman base or s.
I'm walking the opposite direction lol. I'm 57 and after years of family/practical cars I dropped coil overs in my Miata (NC with atrocious seats) and I daily drive that with the coil overs set at 8, which is the baseline track setting. My wife really doesn't even like to sit in the car, much less ride in it.
I drive the "F" out of it. It's MY "zen" time. On the occasions my wife does ride with me she "gets" why I love it; she just has a bad back and every pebble wears on her after a bit. Me I don't care, I walked for twenty years on a disintegrating hip joint, I can handle a little rough in the ride lol.
What I'd really like to have is a "virtually race built but street legal" Fiat X/19 dropped to around 1600 lbs and maybe 225 horsepower. I all I really NEED is heat, AC, lights, Garmin GPS, and necessary gauges. I'd even ditch the AC but it gets really hot and humid here in the Southern Appalachians.
@@waynepurcell6058 The car goes faster without extra weight. You are doing the right thing. (Don't tell your wife I said this)
Everyday Driver continues to be the upper crust of car content because you guys do SO well describing the experience of actually driving and living with the cars you have.
Thank you! This is what we strive for and you’ve paid us a huge compliment! Glad to have you watching!
@@EverydayDriverI also love the content, but what does this first part mean (5:45) “I’d like to 4250, but as it is with all these cars, I’m happy leaving them perfectly stock exactly where they are at”
Own a 911 and it is still not enough to force me to sell my Gr86.
That's awesome to hear. I have a mr2 & zd8 brz... But want a porsche. Maybe I really don't need one?
@@T_3rR4hyou do! I just love looking at my GTS when I’m not driving it.
The only 911 I would sell my GR86 for is this 911 T.
You own a 991 or 992?, cause frankly, the 997 is close enough in size and weight that it ticks that box, but with much higher levels of performance.
I sold my 911 turbo and I now own a GR86. It is the Todd part of my brain. I don't fear bills/tyres/brakes, I don't fear doing a handbrake 180 in the road and I don't have that nagging feeling I'm being a fool with my own money when I do a track day in it.
the fact that the GR86 is even in this list should tell you all about the car
Same time makes me think Toyota should have given more engine options. It would be Porsche grade quite easily.
@@MrRaitziimagine if they gave it the Supra/BMW inline 6 Turbo 😳
@@Toolaceor the 3 cylinder gr carolla engine 🤞
No its because they own it.
@@Toolaceno, the gr86 can't fit nearly enough tire to handle 400-500hp. People already spin these cars left and right. You'd need 200tw 245s just to have a chance at handling that power, and most people would rather run regular 300tws or 500tw AS tires.
Plus, inline 6s are really, really long. The car would need an even longer wheelbase to fit it, which would kill the car. There's a reason the supra only has 2 seats. The GR86 is far more practical.
Imo just a turbo inline 4 like the K20C in the type-R would have sufficed. Or yeah, the GR Corolla motor. If we really want to stay NA, making the car a bit wider and putting a toyota V6 in would have made more sense. Those make 311hp and sound great. Plus they're dead reliable. But NA V6s are dead everywhere else in the world because of displacement taxes.
The paint on that artura is stunning.
I love that you guys have put some emphasis on price and how a high price tag can take away from the fun of driving and owning it.
It’s the reason why I’ve had my 2009 cayman for 10 years now. I absolutely ring its neck on track, take it on skiing holidays and summer trips all over Europe. I don’t worry about depreciation or wether I can afford to bin it hehe
Glad this resonated with you. Thanks for watching!
No risk of bore scoring?
@@ArkadiosTheodulus Nope. Not on the .2 version :)
Todd is 100% on point on the Elise. Pure driving enjoyment and nothing else. What I would love to see is him being able to drive a S1 Elise since they’re old enough to legally import in the US and do a comparison with his US spec S2!
I have an S1 they are the purest
S1 in 160 hp form is the ultimate drivers car- so much more agile than S2.
Thanks guys. No one does car comparisons like you do. You make it fun, and real, and really fun! I think my two favs are the 86 and the 911. Keep ‘em coming, guys.
I've driven my buddies 991 Carrera T and it is so much fun. He also had it on a dyno last year and it made 407hp at the wheels, despite Porsche stating it makes "370hp". It may be the perfect blend of usable power and handling for nice mountain pass blasts imo.
I’m a work truck guy, I tow, I haul, construction sites, recycling centers, etc. but I want to buy the GR86 because the experience must be outstanding for the price.
I don't know why these guys don't have 1 million+ subscribers.. arguably the best in what they do and what WE want!
Thank you for watching!
His hair?
Being a Lotus Elise 250 Cup owner I can only say that the comments Todd and Paul make about the Elise are all precisely spot on! Love the videos and the reviews ❤❤
I've always loved the Elise! I'm having some fun with a 2019 Nismo 370Z but I think the Elise is next. I've always loved the black on black
Great video guys! 40 years of reading car magazines/videos etc, what a fresh take on auto journalism. Well done!
Balancing price, fun, and every day use, the GR86 wins for me.
Thanks for including behind the scenes footage at the end, appreciate it!
Great video as always! I have a Kona N, a compromised thing, but for the price it was the most fun i could have with a hatch and ground clearance. Fun is important!
Thank you for watching and enjoying what we do!
Well guys, another fantastic comparison! I have been asking myself this question since 1990. In 1994 I sold my TR6 and, for the first time, broke my string of British sports cars. I bought a Miata. I drove that car for 4 years and loved every minute of it (including all the road trips)! Life then happened and I drove a series of cars that could do family duty but might be a little fun. In 2010 I was back in the market for a car and I found a 1994 Miata in the spec I would have bought in 94 if I could have afforded it. It is British Racing Green with a tan top and interior and it has all the options! It has been my spring, summer, and fall commuter as well as auto cross and road trip car. It is in fantastic original condition and I still love it! I have driven lots of other sports cars and enjoyed most of them but I always come back to the NA Miata. No other car I have driven is as much fun as that slow, little, corner carver!
Todd and Paul, You do a great job showing cars for what they are. People looking for a fun to drive car can use the information you provide to choose the one that is best for them. As I watch this, it is clear to me which is the best car for me and I can see how others can come to different conclusions based on what they value. I bought the BRZ, in part, based on your comparison of the BRZ to the GR86 in another video. You said the GR86 was the better car but you provided the information that allowed me to see why you though it was better for you but how the BRZ was better for what I was looking for in a sports car.
People will complain about cars missing from the comparison. They are right. A complete comparison to cover everyone's needs would include a dozen or more cars and take 5 hours and be impossible to produce.
Thank you for connecting with this film as intended. We appreciate you watching and taking that time to comment. And congrats on your BRZ!
Owner of a GR86 in Quebec, roads are full of snow and I can confirm that its crazy fun.
I own a 2011 Lamborghini Gallardo and a 1993 Corvette. I love them both for different reasons but driving the corvette with no worries is a lot of fun. My mom constantly reminds me I talk about the Vette more than the lambo. Great vid. Great cars guys !
If fun is what you are looking may I suggest a Miata. My nb1 cost me under 5k and already had a hard dog roll bar, lsd, great manual transmission, excellent hydraulic steering and only weighs 2,299lbs. It is fun at any speed and it didn’t break the bank.
I had doubts about this video due to the length, but it was worth the time. I want a 991 911, but I'm with Todd on affordable fun. The most fun car I've owned was a 2002 Audi TT convertible. Small, manual transmission, go-kart handling, and while it wasn't fast by any measure, the torque made it feel faster than it was. Put the top down, find a twisty road, and I was happy. Out the door price was $25k. Drove it until it died.
Congratulations for both the concept and execution on this one guys
To say the lotus is older and still giving smiles per miles says to me technology separates, old school mechanics gives fun and engagement. Thanks for sharing 👍
I go through cars. Currently enjoying a 2019 GT3RS. But one I will never get rid of is my 2006 Exige, which I bought new. Can't recommend it to very many people, but when somebody expresses an interest in the fun of driving, and they already have something else to daily, the Lotus gets my nod. I try to let other people drive it, if they're interested, to spread the joy.
What do you do for a living?
@@Zach-td5mb I help industrial businessmen achieve their growth goals.
GR86- what a machine...well done Toyota and Subaru
Some of the most fun I’ve had: ‘09 STi tuned, e46 M3, GR86, ‘19 SS1LE, F80 M3 manual, integra type S and c8 Z06. Some great cars but less fun than expected: 718 GT4, 718 Boxster S, ‘16 M6 gran coupe, F80 M3 DCT, G80 M3CS
The b roll is professional grade guys, good job.
I have no bias against any of the cars you chose. I chose my 2022 gr86 and 2020 c8 ( now 2023 z06). Knowing each car is great from what I do have gives me great respect to all sports cars and supercars. All unique. All fun.
Great video, and something definitely to talk about. We all dream for the hyper/super cars, but at the end it is all about big smile. I have owned GR86, Miata, Porsche 911. I would go with GR86 any day!
I owned a GR86 and it was excellent but I actually prefer my Miata since it weighs 500lbs less and has actual feedback from the hydraulic rack. (Nb1)
Side note I raced a 981 GTS PDK on track and while it’s out of my budget it was damn near perfection.
@@CruiseControl1Miata's are great for sure, I loved it. The only reason I sold her was, I am not into convertible. But it is light and nimble (sometimes too nimble).
@@TheJumboJetDriver I have always preferred a coupe to a convertible, my first car was a 79 280z. However when I drove the nb1 with a hard dog roll bar it blew my mind and I have yet to drive something that puts more smiles on my face at such low speeds.
I get what you are saying though with the nimble aspect, I choose to keep the power low and the tires cheep so the breakaway is linear and predictable.
I totally agree, I've been able to drive a few Porsche's on their Utah Adventure, the GR86 is just as much fun for a third the price.
@@CruiseControl1 I had a AE NB too. Was neat, I had the roll over bars and 5point harness and all. But something was missing for me. But again great fun, 50 felt like you were doing 100 already!
Great video! I would likely choose the Elise. I’ve never owned one even though it was my dream car for years. It never seemed practical and I had kids and such to haul around. I have owned some really nice fast cars that were relatively fun. I shudder when I think of all the money I’ve spent over the last couple of decades looking for a car that I really enjoy. While on vacation with the family last summer I saw a Mazda Miata RF in a grocery store parking lot. I had never even considered a Miata. So I went and drove one and bought it on the spot. I’ve really enjoyed driving it since. It’s not really fast but it is super engaging. I do find myself laughing out loud occasionally.
The Miata RF is a great car with a timeless design. Congrats on a great car!
I own a 911T near same spec as the one in the video, and I can’t wait to also get a new 86. They punch way out of their class. Just because you may have the “dream car” doesn’t mean you also don’t list after “cheaper” options
What an epic line up guys. Thanks for including the Lotus!
I’ll watch it on a big screen when I get home!
We hope you enjoy!
Genuinely one of your more interesting videos. Keep up the good work!
Glad you enjoyed. Thanks for watching!
Awesome to see these cars compared just for raw enjoyment! I feel like my perspective aligns with Todd more but I love the balance Paul provides as someone less concerned with price and maybe more interested in speed
Watching this on multiple accounts for the algorithm!
I own an Elise, an Alfa Romeo 4C and I did own an Evora. I've driven many other cars but at the end of the day, nothing beats the Elise. It's an absolute scalpel and proper weapon on a tight mountain road.
I own a supercharged Elise with about 310 HP at the crank. It’s so fun. The handling is unbelievable and the supercharger makes it as quick as you would want it to be for anything other than a drag race. I’ve never driven anything that compares to the feeling of driving it
That sounds like an amazing FUN thing.
It’s the lotus for me, the way it wants to lift the inside rear tyre when you run hot into a corner, pure fun
There are so many things that go into the most fun car. I owned an Elise and it was the most car I've ever driven. Second to me would be the first generation MR2, which isn't surprising because MR2 fans call the Elise a 4th gen MR2. But getting in and out of the Elise while commuting to work then again to go out to lunch then again to commute home, well, watch Jeremy Clarkson's review and see how he gets out. To that end, the GR86/BRZ/FRS is much easier to get in and out and could indeed be left in the Stop & Shop parking, with the radio on. The Porsche would worry me because Porsche haters WILL key your car left in a Wal Mart parking lot for 20 minutes. The McLaren, boy, I'd be afraid of things going wrong which defines McLarens. And hybrid? I have watched all of Freddy's videos on the P1 rebuild and I would have zero faith in the electric part. The Corvette is indeed a bargain supercar. I just wish 2 things. First, that they add a proper manual transmission. I mean....did the Chevy bean counters not notice that a manual Lamborghini Merci costs now double what an e gear one does? And second, I wish it were 3/4 the size. It is ginormous. Maybe 7/8th size.
I think that what really limits the McLaren when they become somewhat attainable is the maintenance of the electronics which would be horrific and frustrating.
I've had two 1st gen MR2's and it was such a blast. The clutch take up was soo wide n' easy and the manual was snick snick fun. And the steering wheel was soo stiff to turn. Felt like a slot car.
I recently purchased a GR86 in part because of this video. If you are looking for a "bang for your buck" sports car, this is it.
Glad you enjoyed watching this and it was helpful to you. Congrats on a great car!!
I came across this video and love it. Thank you both. I am an original owner a 2006 Elise as a fun car for the weekend rides. And, wow, it is the best car I ever owned! I have been shopping for my dream car: a 911, C8, a Ferrari, and even a MCL. Test drove them all, and, suddenly I realized that I already have my dream car in my garage! Thank you for reinforced my conviction! Lotus Elise is it!
Excellent piece, I was looking forward to watching all week and enjoyed on the big screen as you recommended last night. The highlight for me was the overhead still shot of the quarter mile performance, such a creative way to demonstrate and “feed” that audience. Keep up the passionate work, thank you for all the content you guys put out and rejuvenating my desire and interests in all things with four wheels.
Thank you for taking the time to watch and enjoy!
Wow! This episode will definitely explode❤, and from my experience is more Money can’t get you more fun. I’m definitely having more fun in my EVO than any pure sports/super car I rented in the past (911, 987 Cayman R, Alfa 4C, also the R35 GTR)
i love my ZD8 BRZ so much. it’s so talkative and chattery. even when i’m just running errands it puts a smile on my face
Bingo. First people to say if straight line speed is all that matters then your better off buying a EV. Excellent production quality.
Very enjoyable review to watch. Thank you! For most of us in everyday driving - safety is a part of the picture. I really loved the C5 Z06. But I never felt safe on the road in it. Same with most cars that weigh close to or less than 3,000 lbs. And in my opinion many cars that cost more than about $70K are boring on the street for everyday driving unless you can get the road closed and ignore speed limits. So really they are good for the track only - if you can afford to risk the money on track and the car can hold up to track use. To me anything with an automatic is not even worth looking at.
The cars you selected really reflect how personal this is. I do agree the GR86 is great. I really liked mine. The rest of the cars are too capable for the street or somewhat unsafe in heavy traffic in my opinion. Not that good for everyday driving.
Had the new GR86 in auto, regretted transmission choice at times but truly enjoyed it. Took to track and had for about a year and 10k miles. Traded for a WRX that was a lemon, which was a heartbreaking shame. Actually waited months on a wait list for another GR86 with a stick, but due to Toyotas allocation system with my dealer, it wasn’t going to happen. Now custom ordered a new Mustang GT.
What I think should be said about these cars is the special feeling for the individual, for the new experiences. With not being pressured from others or yourself to get a specific version that doesn’t fit your life style. Just try to appreciate the cars for what they are despite the flaws as long as it makes you (the individual) excited/happy. Some cars like the 86 (if it’s small size and loud interior works for you) are just unbeatable values where I see more value of having that plus a Prius (~60k in total) than one compromised luxury sports sedan for that price.
I have a '23 BRZ, '23 Type R, and '15 EVO X. Type R is the most capable and focused, and very fun to drive. BRZ is a great drivers car and great learning tool. EVO is a rental car but a riot on twisty roads and the track. Thanks so much for this comparison I will continue to enjoy and keep my BRZ!
@mophoplz I daresay, its the BRZ. Nothing beats lightweight and a low center of gravity. I been driving the snot out of my cars lately too, including the racetracks.
Great video guys!! You guys have convinced me to add a new Emira to the garage. However, I need to give up my ND2 to make room. I’m not convinced I’m not making a mistake. Congratulations on a great piece of content!!
Love that you guys come to different conclusions on the rank order of the cars. It just confirms that you can disagree with your car buddy and still have a great time.
Thank you for watching and connecting with what we do!
I bought a blue GR86 like this one, absolutely a fantastic car!
I am an owner of a GT86 for about 4 years now. All I can say is it's such a bang for your buck! I bought it used for around 15k USD which was a bargain. With a Milltek exhaust on it sounds amazing and catches some eyes if you're into that. Also it's probably the best daily driver from all of these cars. I went to IKEA with it, went snowboarding and squeezed 4 people in it. It works just fine. I love this car so much.
Great movie guys. Very fun to watch you both in such awesome cars. I've got '18 Cayman GTS and if I had to trade down I would get the GR86 for sure.
Gosh, I like this show so much. Amazing chosen theme and execution.
Awesome vid guys, great idea, great cars, great comparo! As a first gen BRZ driver who has "fixed" its short comings (torque dip 😉), I often "worry" about my next car because I worry I won't find something as magical. I one day will be writing my own car debate to the podcast 😎. Thanks again for the amazing video
How’d you “fix” the torque dip?
I had a flashed Brz and it really helped the dip. The new one is way better with the torque. Displacement was the fix here. It also sounds better (after you disconnect the fake engine noise).
@@tedbahas awesome to hear!
Gr corolla hatch 39k, AMAZING daily driver. Ariel atom 500, 55k, go cart with nuclear bomb in back. Aptera, 48k (lol you say?) 0-60, 3.5s, never needs fuel; ever! Put down my deposit last month after getting rid of model s. Ford gt, 95k, cheap only because of 2008 recession. Ducati 1198, 12k, my favorite. Way cheaper than their list, and i get to keep all of them.
What do you do for a living?
Great video guys! I took my $25K 987.1 Cayman out today with the fall leaves swirling up behind me. Fantastic day for less than $10 of 93 octane.
As someone who just got out of his 987.1 Cayman S a few minutes before watching this video I approve your message!
Thanks for the end clip, it adds more smiles and acknowledgments. Well done!
Corvette and Elise are my favorites!🔥
The C8 needs a manual - period. Imagine how epic the C8 Z06 would be rowing the gears with that screaming FPC engine! Even Ferrari didn’t give us that!
Love this comparison! The Lotus is timeless! Todd (with a baby in his arms): 2006 is not that long ago (hands keys to his now 18yo) 😂
I needed this video, thanks for the original content and reminding us why we like to drive in the first place- fun.
This is THE best channel for driving enthusiasts
Thrilled to hear you enjoy what we do, and you’ve paid us a huge compliment! Thank you for watching!
Great video Paul, Todd and your crew! Tons of great info for us to think about when selecting a car purchase! Also @ 36:00 I love the Ferris Bueller quote Todd says; "if you have the means..." 😅 Also thanks to the car owners that lent EverydayDriver their rides to make this video! Cheers! 😎
Thank YOU for noting the Ferris Bueller reference!! Glad to have you watching as always!
One hour! This would make a 90 minute show on TV with all the holiday and big pharma ads
These cars are all fun to drive and I would say sport cars in the past 20 are fast but drivability and exclusivity is what makes the more expensive cars better 😊. I have a audi tt mk2 manual transmission and it’s vr6 engine is a joy to drive and it hit all the points of what a sport car should be looks good sounds great handles really good and its fast up top for its time period but not so fast that it’s out of control 😊
Epic!! The point of this video is spot on. The audience can feel your passion and enthusiasm for driving these cars. Well done!
I echo Todd's sentiment about his Lotus, the motto of "simplify, and add lightness" really does go a long way. Part of that is sacrificing creature comforts, which in some ways I would argue makes a car feel more focused, and therefore special. Not comfortable necessarily, but special.
My AW11 MR2 fits into that category. It doesn't have air conditioning, the stereo system is miserably worn out and things are constantly wearing out due to age or neglect that I wind up fixing. But nothing, absolutely nothing drives like it and makes the sounds that it does with a 20-valve blacktop. You'd have to go well into the $40k range to get that, and even if I threw a whole new coat of paint at it (on top of mods/repairs) I wouldn't even have spent half of that.
Still the best motring review show on youtube, superb as always.
We take that as a huge compliment, thank you! We're glad to have you watching!
Having driven four out of five on the track (have not had a chance to drive the McLaren), all are great cars. Toyota is the most practical daily driver. Porsche has the best combination of daily drivability, performance, and fun. Chevy has the most performance for the track, and is daily usable. Lotus is the most fun (it feels like a go-cart in a good way). If I was to choose one (price independent) it would have to be Porsche. My price dependant choice for a daily driver fun car (fun per dollar) is Toyota. If we take daily drivability out of the equation, my top choice for canyon carving or around the track is Lotus all day.
Excellent show! Faster is not always more fun. A sport car with more driver's involvement is more fun👍
MY LOTUS ELISE TURBO SCREAMS FUN!
The Elise is an 'affordable' supercar...i agree with Todd,it's pure driving engagement
I would love an Elsie however it’s 7 times more expensive than my nb1 Miata and it’s not 7 times better.
@@CruiseControl1 Just say you can't afford it...
@@al4079 Just say you’re an a$$__le
@@CruiseControl1drive one before you say that. I drove a Miata, it’s nowhere near an Elise lol it’s doo doo compared to it
@@ThePikmin18 I never said the Elise was bad in anyway, for me it’s not worth the cost, a McLaren f1, LFA, 918, all these cars might be great. For me I’m good with my Miata.
That orange 911... wow! I love your films. And the landscapes.. Amazing!
You need a "cost per fun" stat.
Take the costs, and divide that by your average fun ratings. Done that way, One fun in the GR86 only costs $8,559.73, vs the McLaren where one fun costs a whopping $77,113.33. Heck, at that price, you could take several years off work and have 4 fun in a GR86 for the cost of the same amount of fun in the McLaren, but where you'd still have to trudge to work every day for several years. I know which I'd prefer. :)
That's an awesome stat! Price divided by fun rating, solves Paul's quantification effort.
a hypermiling simplified prius type car focused on effiency with some momentum preservation tricks and the baility to switch off power steering, would be the best balance.
That's a great stat. As a Lotus owner I'd think the Elise would be at the top. Loud, light, fast in the turns, rough but gentle.
Thanks!
What an awesome premise and a fantastic array of cars! As always you guys nailed it with the insight and the nuances that must really make this a great day for you both. Here's the question: How would your respective top three fair against an early edition Miata (NA, NB or NC)? Something that is cheaper still and still makes people laugh in the corners...just a thought.
On the roads they used, a Miata would probably just feel loud and slow. I love a Miata but it's not at its best on interstates.
The premise of my curiosity comes from something that Todd said during their Cheap Sports Car Challenge while on The Million Dollar Highway. It was something like buy a cheap sports car and have as much fun as someone who spent $30k, $80k or $200k...sure my recollection on the numbers might be off but the basis is the same. Also, Paul said during the review of the NB Miata that you're having 82% more fun than everyone else on the road, not 83% because it's empirical data that he collected. I'd love for those notions to be tested, not that the Miata will do as well in any of the categories but will the Miata be less fun?
Thanks guys, been waiting for this one. Here to help engagement and get this the views it deserves.
Thank you for watching!
I have quite the fun on a 2008 Subaru legacy sedan 3.0 flat 6 manual that i got for 5k spent 2k making it perfect. Sounds bananas and its a car you guys have to try with some other sedans for a budget sporty sedan lineup . Always great vids
I have a 2002 wrx that I still love and just can't force myself to move beyond....
Awesome vid guy, well done.
Been waiting all day tor this one!
I had an FRS and now have a 991.2 Carrera T. Both are great. I had a lot of reliability issues with the FRS, limp mode at track days, but I loved it. The 911.2 has had zero issues. Also, a $1000 tune gets you 100 hp+ which add another level of fun.
I put some lowered springs and an induction kit on my old Honda CRZ and it turned it into a super fun car to drive. Totally underrated car!
Recently took my C8 HTC Z51 3LT on a 1,000 mile road trip to Western North Carolina around Asheville, Lake Lure, Chimney Rock, Crowder's Mountain. It was fantastic on the highway and a blast on the twisty smoky mountain roads. Picked it over an AMG GT-C Roadster and Lexus LC 500. I put miles on my cars.
Well done Gents. I know with these group tests there are always some cars missing from the line up. Imho, apart from the Elise, the car that you should have picked for being the most enjoyable, visceral car is a Caterham. Maybe next time….BTW many McLaren engineers are ex Lotus.
What a great video again. I enjoyed every second of it. This is not a RUclips video, it should be broadcast in cinemas!
Glad you enjoyed it so much! Thank you for watching!
Really great video once again! Maybe the last model MR2 (also one time winner in the Cheap Sports Car Video) is a good compromise between the GR86 and the Elise.
Drive it on a mountain pass and it 'll give you plenty of smiles per gallon and per turn😁.
Keep up the good work guys and already looking forward to the next video👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Amazing production here!!
Great episode guys! I loved it!
Before you actually fight me, both are incredibly fun to drive cars that I enjoy spending time in, you literally can't make a bad decision between the two.
I’m not here to fight and I owned a 22 gr86 and loved it. I now own an nb1 Miata that I enjoy much more. 500lbs lighter, feedback from the hydraulic rack, excellent manual and it’s more fun at all speeds in my opinion. Like you said though both are great cars!
@@CruiseControl1 Fair! I much prefer the suspension tuning on the 86 out of the box and real gauges for track use, but I prefer the engines in the ND and I'm bummed at the lack of gauges in the Mazda for track/autox use. Different things appeal to different people and I'm glad you found a car that fits you better!
@@Dirtsmith My Miata is older as it’s an nb1 (99 model year). I actually prefer the suspension of the older Miata vs the newer ND. As for gauges mine are old school analog and work great. In the looks department I preferred my GR86 in beautiful Neptune blue. My least favorite thing about my gr86 was the lack of feedback in the steering. Both are awesome and I like going on drives through Colorado mtn roads with Miata drivers and GR86/BRZ twins.
@@CruiseControl1 I get my feedback through my body so steering feedback is more annoying than anything for me because it creates hand and wrist fatigue over time but I still find the feedback in the 86 to be fine at the limit. By gauges I mean various types of temp gauges and oil pressure, oddly missing from the Miata and not easy to add after the fact.
I just bought a new GR86 manual today… this car is going to stay with me for a while. That car is definitely worth the price
What an awesome video guys. Loved every minute of it. I also feel like you guys nailed it. I myself am trying to get into more faster/special cars. Went from ND2 to Lotus Elise and wanting a Porsche but i feel the higher the price the more worried i get driving it. The Mazda ND2 was the most fun car i owned. Just top down and not stressing and enjoying life. This is the video i needed and i will get myself a ND2 again someday 😊
From the ND to the Elise you still missed the Miata? Glad to hear it hahaha
@@N3rdburgring It's more about the functionality. It's easier to daily drive the miata and the roads in Belgium s*ck bigtime so comfort is needed here ^^ The Elise is better on track, and for a "Canyon" drive i need to take the car on a road trip for 2 days. Now i just need to work out how to keep the elise and buy the miata as a 3rd car -.-
C8 wins hands down! Looks exotic but can be daily driven, mid engine, 500hp, 0-60 3 secs, lots of storage in trunk and frunk, msrp of 68.3 for 2024, cant and wont beat that
C8 wins!
But is it fun? Is it connected or is it all about the metrics?
Miata Is Always The Answer...... awesome video regardless!
Nb1 owner agrees!
I'll stick with my stickshift 2017 Corvette C7.
The C7 is quick enough 0-60 in 3.8 seconds with stickshift and a removeable roof and loud exhaust, that I'd rather have fun.
If I were ever to upgrade to another sports car, I'd be willing to give up the removable roof for these cars:
- Lotus Emira
- Alpine A110
Thanks for the video, guys; had a blast watching it. I can really relate to some of Todd's thoughts about how weight affects your enjoyment of a car. I have a heavier car now as a fun car and am thinking about going back to a MX-5 (or possibly a GR86) simply because, while slower, I really find myself missing the lighter weight and the feeling through the chassis. When I had my previous MX-5, and before that a 2018 BRZ, they were so much fun to drive, and so engaging, even if they weren't the fastest things on the road. They were enjoyable at any speed, whereas now I feel like I have to really push my car to make it come alive.
I owned a gr86 and sold it, now I have an NB1 Miata and love it.
@@CruiseControl1 My current fun car is a 2022 Camaro 2SS 1LE. It is hugely capable, and a lot of fun to drive. But you feel the weight, and you feel the size, and the limits are so high that there's no way I can even come close on public roads. Most of the time I feel like the car is bored. The MX-5 I had prior (and the BRZ I had a car or two before that) weren't even close if you go by numbers, but they were more fun, more of the time, because the limits were so approachable and their light weight made the cars feel more alive even at lower speeds.
@@saviordream Absolutely agree, I have owned 3 v8 American muscle cars and they are fun but different than in something lightweight
@@CruiseControl1 This is my first American V8. I wanted to try one before they were all gone, and I'd always been intrigued by the 6th gen Camaro. Really happy to have gotten a chance to experience it, but I'm really thinking about going back to a lightweight sports car. As you said, a different experience.
@@saviordream The alpha platform is amazing and an unpopular opinion I preferred the v6 1le to the v8 1le both are track focused and handle brilliant though. What are you thinking of getting now?
1hr long thank you so much for this treat.
Used Miata with tweaked engine. That's it. Best 6k pounds ever spent.
I own an nb1 so agreed!