8. Mazda MX-5 Miata (Older Models)
The Mazda MX-5 Miata has long been celebrated as an icon of affordable sports-car driving, praised universally for its nimble handling, balanced chassis, and pure driving experience.
Yet, enthusiasts who’ve driven earlier generations know that straight-line speed was never the Miata’s strong suit.
With older models producing around 116 to 140 horsepower, acceleration from zero to 60 mph often hovered near the nine-second mark.
This modest performance means that, despite its classic roadster charm and sporty appeal, older Miatas can easily be outpaced by modern minivans, vehicles few would suspect of having quicker acceleration than an iconic sports car.