Honda Sports Cars – If there’s one thing you can count on when it comes to Honda, it’s their ability to make fun, reliable, and affordable sports cars. Whether you’re a die-hard enthusiast or someone looking for a car that offers the best of both worlds—everyday usability and thrilling performance—Honda’s sports car lineup has you covered. Over the years, Honda has consistently produced some of the most iconic cars in the sports car world, and today, I’m sharing the top 5 Honda sports cars that you definitely need to know about.
So, let’s take a spin through Honda’s legendary sports car history, shall we?
Top 5 Honda Sports Cars You Need to Know About
1. Honda Civic Type R
Ah, the Civic Type R. This one’s a legend. Every time I see a Civic Type R on the road, I get a little jealous. It’s hard not to. Since it first hit the streets, this hatchback has been a symbol of Honda’s motorsport pedigree. The current model, the 2023 Type R, comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that pushes out a solid 306 horsepower. And let me tell you, this thing is fast—0-60 mph in under 6 seconds.
What I love about the Civic Type R is the raw, almost visceral driving experience it provides. The steering is tight, the suspension is firm but not punishing, and it just feels planted in corners. Plus, the 6-speed manual transmission is such a joy to shift. If you’re the type who loves to take control and enjoy the ride, the Type R delivers. The car is equally comfortable as a daily driver, though you might feel a bit like you’re in a racing cockpit thanks to the aggressive seats and bold interior styling. But that’s part of the charm.
One downside? It’s a bit pricier than the standard Civic. But for what you get, it’s a steal in the world of hot hatches.
2. Honda NSX (Acura NSX in the U.S.)
Now, this is where Honda takes it up a notch. The NSX—originally introduced in 1990—is a supercar that, for a time, could hang with the best of them. I’ll never forget the first time I heard that the NSX was coming back in 2016 as a hybrid. The 2017 version was packed with technology—a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine paired with three electric motors, producing 537 horsepower. It wasn’t just about power, though; it was the balance. The NSX handles like a dream, thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and superb chassis tuning.
Driving the NSX is an experience unlike any other. It’s fast, refined, and surprisingly comfortable for a supercar. Honestly, I’ve had the pleasure of riding in one, and I can tell you it’s a jaw-dropping experience. The technology is cutting-edge, and the torque-vectoring hybrid system gives you a feeling of total control. However, the price tag is hefty. Expect to drop around $150,000 for a new one.
But if you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to own a Honda supercar, the NSX is the one that’ll make you feel like you’ve made it.
3. Honda S2000
If the NSX is a supercar, the S2000 is a true driver’s car. This small, lightweight roadster has been the darling of enthusiasts for years. Released in 1999 and produced until 2009, the S2000 remains one of Honda’s most beloved models. It’s a car that you can tell was designed with one purpose: to put a smile on your face every time you drive it.
The S2000 comes with a 2.0-liter or 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine (depending on the year), which, while not packing huge horsepower numbers—around 240 hp—feels quick thanks to its lightweight build and high-revving nature. The 9,000 rpm redline is the stuff of legends. And that handling? It’s razor-sharp, with a rear-wheel-drive layout that makes it a dream on twisty back roads.
But let’s be real—this car isn’t for everyone. The ride is stiff, the roadster layout means limited trunk space, and the engine demands high RPMs to really shine. But if you’re into pure driving experiences, the S2000 is pure magic. Plus, they’ve started to become more collectible, so if you find one in good condition, it’s worth snapping up before the prices start skyrocketing.
4. Honda Prelude
The Prelude might not get as much love as some of Honda’s other sports cars, but it’s still an icon in its own right. Produced from 1978 until 2001, the Prelude was a sports coupe that combined Honda’s reliability with a fun-to-drive spirit. I remember driving my friend’s 1997 Prelude with the VTEC engine, and I still remember how smooth the engine revved and how responsive the steering felt.
The Prelude wasn’t as raw as the S2000, but it was a fantastic car for someone looking for a blend of performance and comfort. The 4th-generation Prelude (produced in the ’90s) especially stood out with its 2.2-liter DOHC VTEC engine, making around 190 horsepower. It wasn’t a powerhouse, but it offered a smooth, engaging drive with great handling, especially for a front-wheel-drive car. It was also fairly affordable compared to some of the other performance-oriented cars at the time.
Unfortunately, Honda discontinued the Prelude in 2001, but it remains a classic choice for enthusiasts who appreciate a sporty coupe with a bit of finesse.
5. Honda Fit Sport
Okay, hear me out. The Honda Fit Sport might not be your typical “sports car,” but it’s surprisingly fun to drive for a subcompact. When you drive a Fit Sport, it’s like you’ve unlocked a hidden gem in Honda’s lineup. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine doesn’t offer a ton of horsepower—around 130 hp—but the way the car handles is downright impressive for its size.
What makes the Fit Sport stand out is its agility. It’s a car that you can toss into corners without feeling like you’re going to lose control. And it’s practical too—super spacious inside, with Honda’s famous Magic Seat that lets you configure the rear seats in multiple ways. Sure, it doesn’t have the raw power of a Type R or an NSX, but the driving experience is far more engaging than you might expect from a small, affordable hatchback.
Plus, the Fit Sport is an awesome city car, combining sporty handling with excellent fuel efficiency. It’s a perfect entry-level car for someone who wants a taste of fun without breaking the bank.
Wrapping It Up
Honda has built some of the most exciting and accessible sports cars over the years. From the wild NSX to the more affordable but still thrilling Civic Type R, Honda has offered a variety of cars that can satisfy just about any driving enthusiast. The S2000, Prelude, and even the humble Fit Sport all bring something special to the table. Whether you’re after performance, fun handling, or just a car that makes you smile, there’s a Honda sports car for you.
My personal favorite? It’s hard to choose, but there’s something about the S2000 that just speaks to me. What about you? Do you have a favorite Honda sports car? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
