9. Toyota MR2
Back in the mid-80s, Toyota shocked the automotive world by introducing the MR2. It was a small mid-engined sports car with great performance and superb road holding at an affordable price. However, in those days, as well as today, people think of Toyota as a dull manufacturer of economy models without any interesting cars. But the MR2 changed all that since it was different from other Toyotas, appealing to fans of spirited driving and dynamic handling. They debuted the first generation MR2s in 1984. They featured a 1.5-liter or 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine they mounted centrally behind the driver, between the cabin and the rear axle.
That’s what gave this little car fantastic handling. The second generation lasted into the ‘90s and was more modern-looking and with better technology and sharper handling. But the version you should look for is the 1.6-liter supercharged model they named the SC for supercharger delivering 145 HP and 140 lb-ft of torque. Although those power output figures don’t sound earth-shattering today, the MR2 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just seven seconds, which is quite respectable.