Home Cars 15 Forgotten Sports Cars That Deserve a Second Chance at Greatness

Cars

15 Forgotten Sports Cars That Deserve a Second Chance at Greatness

Cameron Eittreim June 5, 2025

Sports cars embody excitement, freedom, and the sheer joy of driving.
Their sleek lines, roaring engines, and sheer thrill on open roads have captured enthusiasts worldwide.
Yet, amidst the icons we regularly celebrate, many remarkable models have quietly slipped into the shadows of automotive history.
These underrated classics, overshadowed by flashier siblings or victims of poor marketing and timing, linger in obscurity despite their impressive design and engineering.
Join us on a nostalgic journey as we rediscover 15 forgotten sports cars that truly deserve another chance to shine—and perhaps reclaim their rightful place in automotive greatness.

NEXT >>

1. Toyota MR2

The Toyota MR2, affectionately known as the “baby Ferrari,” brought mid-engine sports car dynamics within reach of the everyday enthusiast.
With its nimble handling, lightweight chassis, and agile performance, it delivered a driving experience typically reserved for pricier European exotics.
Its accessible price point made the MR2 a practical choice for drivers seeking thrilling performance without breaking the bank.
Sadly, overshadowed by more prominent competitors and market shifts toward larger, more powerful vehicles, this gem quietly faded away.
Today, with the automotive world craving affordable, driver-focused sports cars once again, the MR2 deserves renewed appreciation and perhaps even a modern revival.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

2. Mitsubishi 3000GT

In the 1990s, the Mitsubishi 3000GT arrived as a technological marvel, packed with features that rivaled—and often surpassed—its contemporaries.
Equipped with an advanced all-wheel-drive system, active aerodynamics, electronically controlled suspension, and potent twin-turbocharged engines, the 3000GT offered exhilarating performance and cutting-edge innovation.
Despite its impressive capabilities, fierce competition from iconic rivals like the Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX, and Mazda RX-7 overshadowed Mitsubishi’s ambitious sports car.
Today, enthusiasts rediscovering 1990s performance icons should look beyond the usual suspects, as the sophisticated and powerful 3000GT undoubtedly deserves recognition and appreciation as a true classic.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

3. Saab Sonett III

The Saab Sonett III stands out as a quirky, stylish offering from Sweden’s innovative automotive heritage.
Introduced in the early 1970s, this distinctive sports car featured a lightweight fiberglass body, front-wheel drive, and an aerodynamic shape that set it apart from mainstream competitors.
Its compact size and nimble handling made it enjoyable to drive, while its bold, unconventional aesthetics captured the essence of Scandinavian design.
However, limited production numbers and modest performance figures caused it to remain relatively unknown outside enthusiast circles.
Today, the rare and charming Saab Sonett III deserves renewed appreciation from collectors and classic car aficionados alike.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

4. Nissan Pulsar NX

The Nissan Pulsar NX, introduced in the late 1980s, captivated car enthusiasts with its innovative modular design and quirky styling.
Its standout feature was a versatile, interchangeable body configuration, allowing owners to switch between coupe, hatchback, and even open-top arrangements.
Under its unconventional exterior, the Pulsar NX boasted responsive handling and spirited performance from its lightweight chassis and peppy four-cylinder engines.
Despite its forward-thinking design, the Pulsar NX never gained widespread acclaim, overshadowed by more conventional competitors.
Today, its unique character and creative engineering deserve renewed appreciation, making it an intriguing choice for collectors seeking something truly different.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

5. Isuzu Impulse

Designed by legendary Italian stylist Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Isuzu Impulse showcased sleek lines and European-inspired aesthetics rarely seen in affordable Japanese sports cars of the 1980s.
Beyond its sophisticated exterior, the Impulse offered lively performance, particularly in turbocharged variants that delivered exhilarating acceleration and tight handling.
Despite these appealing traits, Isuzu’s limited brand recognition, combined with fierce competition from established rivals, left the Impulse largely overlooked by sports car enthusiasts.
Today, with its timeless design and spirited performance, the Isuzu Impulse represents an underrated collectible that merits rediscovery by those seeking a unique and stylish automotive gem.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

6. Subaru SVX

In the early 1990s, Subaru boldly stepped beyond its comfort zone with the futuristic SVX coupe, a car far ahead of its time.
Penned by renowned Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, the SVX featured a distinctive “window-within-a-window” design that turned heads and set it apart from its contemporaries.
Underneath its stylish exterior, the SVX boasted Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive system, a potent flat-six engine, and advanced technology, offering a compelling blend of luxury and performance.
Despite its ambitious concept, high pricing and limited marketing prevented widespread success.
Today, the unique and innovative Subaru SVX deserves renewed attention from enthusiasts and collectors alike.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

7. Renault Alpine GTA

The Renault Alpine GTA, produced during the 1980s, stands as a testament to French automotive flair and engineering excellence.
With its streamlined fiberglass body, rear-engine layout, and agile handling, the GTA offered a driving experience that rivaled more famous European sports cars.
Its turbocharged V6 engine delivered spirited acceleration, perfectly complementing its balanced dynamics and elegant proportions.
Yet, despite its impressive capabilities, the Alpine GTA remained relatively unknown outside Europe, overshadowed by more widely marketed rivals.
Today, enthusiasts searching for a distinctive, sophisticated classic should rediscover the Renault Alpine GTA as a delightful alternative to mainstream sports coupes.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

8. Mazda MX-3

Launched in the early 1990s, the Mazda MX-3 distinguished itself with a compact and sporty design perfect for spirited driving.
Its standout feature was undoubtedly its rare and distinctive 1.8-liter V6 engine—the smallest displacement V6 ever fitted to a production car—delivering smooth power and a uniquely engaging driving experience.
Combined with its lightweight chassis and precise handling, the MX-3 provided drivers with an agile, responsive feel typically reserved for pricier sports coupes.
Though often overshadowed by Mazda’s more famous MX-5 Miata, the MX-3 deserves recognition as a charming, affordable sports coupe with a personality all its own.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

9. Alfa Romeo GTV6

The Alfa Romeo GTV6 embodies everything enthusiasts adore about classic Italian sports cars: passion, style, and an exhilarating driving experience.
Powered by a charismatic 2.5-liter V6 engine emitting an unmistakable exhaust note, the GTV6 excelled in spirited driving thanks to its responsive chassis, balanced weight distribution, and precise steering feedback.
Its motorsport pedigree, proven through victories in touring car championships and rally competitions, further established its performance credibility.
Despite its engaging dynamics and rich heritage, the GTV6 often remains overshadowed by more prominent classics.
Today, enthusiasts seeking genuine Italian flair should rediscover Alfa Romeo’s charismatic yet underrated sporting coupe.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

10. Pontiac Fiero

7043667 1984 Pontiac Fiero Std — Pontiac Fiero: 1980s mid-engine innovation blending lightweight engineering with American sports car ambition. Wikipedia

Introduced in the 1980s, the Pontiac Fiero represented General Motors’ ambitious attempt to create an affordable, mid-engine American sports car.
With its innovative space-frame chassis and plastic composite body panels, the Fiero offered a unique platform that was both lightweight and versatile.
However, early models suffered from reliability issues and modest performance, hindering its reputation and market success.
Improved later versions addressed many shortcomings, showcasing the true potential of its balanced handling and sporty character.
Today, the Pontiac Fiero holds genuine collector appeal, as enthusiasts appreciate its forward-thinking design, American ingenuity, and distinctive place in automotive history.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

11. Jensen-Healey

Jensen-Healey - Sunbeam Alpine — Jensen-Healey: A 1970s British roadster blending Lotus performance with distinctive, minimalist design.

The Jensen-Healey emerged in the early 1970s as an intriguing collaboration between British craftsmanship and Lotus engineering.
Under its sleek, minimalist bodywork lay an advanced and spirited twin-cam Lotus engine, providing lively acceleration and agile handling.
While its contemporary rivals received broader recognition, the Jensen-Healey offered a compelling blend of British roadster charm and genuine performance pedigree.
Though plagued initially by build-quality issues and overshadowed by more established sports cars, enthusiasts today appreciate the Jensen-Healey’s unique character and rarity.
As classic British sports cars gain prominence among collectors, the Jensen-Healey stands poised for rediscovery and newfound appreciation.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

12. Fiat X1/9

Fiat 124 Spider, 1,4 L, Bj. 1970 (2016 07 02 Sp) — Google Creative Commons

The Fiat X1/9, introduced in the early 1970s, brought mid-engine thrills to drivers without the premium price tag associated with exotic sports cars.
Engineered by Bertone, its compact, wedge-shaped design and balanced weight distribution offered sharp, agile handling reminiscent of pricier European counterparts.
Its small yet spirited engine, combined with lightweight construction, resulted in a genuinely engaging driving experience, perfect for winding back roads.
Though overshadowed by more powerful and prestigious models, the X1/9’s approachable price and accessible fun made it a hidden gem.
Today, budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking classic mid-engine excitement should give this charming Italian sports car serious consideration.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

13. Lotus Elan M100

Launched in the late 1980s, the Lotus Elan M100 represented a bold departure for the iconic British sports car brand, adopting an unconventional front-wheel-drive layout.
Despite initial skepticism among Lotus purists, the Elan M100 quickly proved its worth with exceptional handling, precise steering, and remarkable grip, showcasing Lotus’ renowned chassis expertise.
Its turbocharged engine provided spirited performance, complementing its agile dynamics perfectly.
Unfortunately, its front-wheel-drive configuration caused the Elan M100 to be unfairly overlooked by traditional enthusiasts.
Today, this underrated Lotus stands as an accessible and rewarding sports car deserving renewed appreciation from those seeking a spirited driving experience.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

14. BMW Z1

Unveiled in the late 1980s, the BMW Z1 captivated enthusiasts with its unconventional styling and innovative features, most notably its unique sliding doors that retracted downward into the sills.
Beyond its quirky design, the Z1 offered precise, agile handling and a balanced chassis, making it genuinely engaging to drive.
Produced in limited quantities, this roadster remains a rare sight today, often overshadowed by BMW’s more mainstream Z models.
However, its distinctiveness, coupled with BMW’s engineering excellence, positions the Z1 as a collectible gem.
Enthusiasts seeking a rare, conversation-starting sports car should give the BMW Z1 renewed consideration.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

15. Chrysler Conquest TSi

1988 Chrysler Conquest 1551804629a42a7ce40810exterior Front 3 — Wikimedia

Emerging during the turbocharged craze of the 1980s, the Chrysler Conquest TSi offered aggressive styling, muscular proportions, and thrilling performance from its potent turbocharged powerplant.
A rebadged version of the Mitsubishi Starion, the Conquest TSi featured sharp handling, wide stance, and impressive acceleration, making it a formidable competitor to more renowned sports coupes of the era.
Despite its capabilities, this dynamic coupe faded into obscurity, overshadowed by dominant performance icons from Europe and Japan.
Today, the Chrysler Conquest TSi remains an intriguing, often overlooked sports car, deserving renewed recognition for its exciting driving experience and bold presence.

<< Previous

NEXT >>

Conclusion

Rediscovering these forgotten sports cars reminds us of the diverse engineering, innovative designs, and passionate automotive spirit that defined their eras.
While these models may have been overshadowed in their time, they offer today’s enthusiasts and collectors unique opportunities to own compelling pieces of automotive history.
As appreciation for classic and distinctive vehicles continues to grow, many of these underrated gems are poised for a well-deserved resurgence.
Whether you’re seeking performance, rarity, or simply a captivating story, giving these forgotten sports cars a second look can reward you with a driving experience—and an emotional connection—that newer vehicles rarely replicate.

.article-content-img img { width: 100% }

<< Previous

15 Forgotten Sports Cars That Deserve a Second Chance at Greatness

1. Toyota MR2

2. Mitsubishi 3000GT

3. Saab Sonett III

4. Nissan Pulsar NX

5. Isuzu Impulse

6. Subaru SVX

7. Renault Alpine GTA

8. Mazda MX-3

9. Alfa Romeo GTV6

10. Pontiac Fiero

11. Jensen-Healey

12. Fiat X1/9

13. Lotus Elan M100

14. BMW Z1

15. Chrysler Conquest TSi

Conclusion

POPULAR