Top 10 Sports Cars 2000 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Honda S2000 (AP1)

The Honda S2000 ranks first because its 9,000-rpm F20C engine and telepathic steering define the purest sports-car experience of 2000. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder produces 240 horsepower, or 120 hp per liter, propelling the 2,778-lb roadster to 60 mph in about 5.9 seconds. The near-perfect weight balance and short-throw 6-speed manual deliver a connection to the road that no rival matched.

The S2000 is for the enthusiast who prioritizes revs and steering feel over outright torque and comfort. It trades away a spartan cabin, a busy ride, and early-AP1 handling that can bite at the limit. Compared to the Corvette C5 below, it offers far less straight-line pace but a more intimate, engaging drive. This is the connoisseur's pick for those who value the journey over the destination.

2. Chevrolet Corvette C5

The Corvette C5 ranks second as the best value of 2000 because its 345-hp LS1 V8 delivers supercar performance for a fraction of the price. Its 5.7-liter engine rockets the coupe to 60 mph in about 4.8 seconds and through the quarter mile in the low 13s. The rear-mounted transaxle provides near-50/50 weight distribution, making it a genuine driver's car. At $38,705, it embarrassed European exotics costing twice as much.

The C5 is for the buyer who wants maximum speed and usability per dollar, with a comfortable ride and a practical hatch. It trades away the steering delicacy of the S2000 above and its interior plastics feel cut-price. However, its indestructible LS1 and vast aftermarket make it a tuner's dream. It remains the performance bargain of the era, with clean examples still affordable today.

3. Porsche Boxster S (986)

The Porsche Boxster S ranks third because its mid-engine chassis and steering feel are among the best ever fitted to an affordable Porsche. New for 2000, its 3.2-liter flat-six produces 250 horsepower, with a 6-speed manual and bigger brakes. The 0-60 sprint takes about 5.7 seconds, but the magic is in the balance and open-top rigidity. This model saved Porsche financially and shares much hardware with the 996 911.

The Boxster S is for the purist who wants a badge and sublime handling without needing a 911's power. It trades away the Corvette's raw acceleration and the S2000's high-revving thrill, but offers a more refined, composed drive. Compared to the Corvette above, it is less powerful but more involving on a twisty road. Its values have bottomed, making it a strong entry-level Porsche buy, though the IMS bearing concern demands inspection.

4. BMW M5 (E39)

The BMW M5 ranks fourth because it combines supercar pace with four-door practicality, a feat no other 2000 sports car matched. Its hand-assembled 4.9-liter V8 with individual throttle bodies produces 400 horsepower, driving the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual. It sprints to 60 mph in about 4.8 seconds while seating a family in leather-lined comfort. This restraint and sledgehammer mid-range made it the benchmark super-sedan.

The M5 is for the enthusiast who needs four doors but refuses to compromise on driving excitement. It trades away the open-air feel of the Boxster above and its weight is higher, but it offers genuine sports-car dynamics in a discreet body. Compared to the Boxster S, it is more practical and powerful, but less balanced and engaging on a back road.

5. Dodge Viper GTS

The Dodge Viper GTS ranks fifth because its 8.0-liter V10 delivers raw, analog fury that nothing else in 2000 could match. Its 450 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque launch the coupe to 60 mph in roughly 4.1 seconds through a 6-speed manual. There are no driver aids, so it demands total respect and skill behind the wheel. Known for side-exit exhausts and a double-bubble roof, it is a brawler with race-bred bones.

The Viper GTS is for the brave driver who wants a pure, unfiltered supercar experience without electronic safety nets. It trades away the M5's everyday usability and comfort, with punishing cabin heat and a tricky limit. Compared to the M5 above, it is far more extreme and less practical, but offers a more visceral thrill. As one of the last truly analog supercars, it has strong collector interest, with clean examples now in six-figure territory.

6. Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R

The Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R ranks sixth because it is the rarest and most hardcore factory Mustang of the era, built in a run of just 300 units. Its naturally aspirated 5.4-liter DOHC V8 produces 385 horsepower and 385 lb-ft, fed through a Tremec 6-speed manual. It runs 0-60 in about 4.4 seconds and is stripped for road racing, with Recaro buckets and no air conditioning or stereo.

The Cobra R is for the collector who values rarity and track focus over daily comfort. It trades away the Viper's massive torque and the M5's luxury, offering a stripped, stiffened, lowered chassis instead. Compared to the Viper above, it is less powerful but more rare and purpose-built for racing. Low-mile examples command strong premiums at auction, making it a solid investment for Mustang enthusiasts.

7. Acura Integra Type R (DC2)

The Acura Integra Type R ranks seventh because it proves that front-wheel drive can deliver world-class handling and driver engagement. Its high-revving 1.8-liter B18C5 engine produces 195 horsepower at 8,000 rpm, driving the front wheels through a 5-speed manual and helical limited-slip differential. Stripped of sound deadening and fitted with lighter glass, it corners with a precision that humbles far pricier machinery. It is the finest front-drive car of its generation.

The Type R is for the purist who values handling over horsepower and enjoys the thrill of a screaming VTEC engine. It trades away the Cobra R's straight-line speed and the Viper's torque, but offers a more balanced and communicative chassis. Compared to the Cobra R above, it is less rare but more affordable and practical for daily use. Clean, unmodified examples have rocketed in value, making it a blue-chip collector car.

8. Audi TT quattro (8N)

The Audi TT quattro ranks eighth because its Bauhaus-inspired design captures the Y2K moment like no other car of 2000. Its 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 225 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed manual and all-wheel drive. It runs 0-60 in about 6.3 seconds with confident all-weather traction. The TT is more a stylish grand-touring coupe than a razor's-edge sports car, prioritizing usability and looks.

The TT is for the design lover who wants all-weather grip and a style statement, not the sharpest handling. It trades away the Integra Type R's precision and the Miata's purity for quattro stability and a landmark interior. Compared to the Type R above, it is less engaging but more practical and visually striking. Early 225 quattro coupes are now appreciating as design icons, though values remain accessible.

9. Toyota MR2 Spyder

The Toyota MR2 Spyder ranks ninth because it delivers genuine mid-engine balance and steering feel at an entry-level price. Its 1.8-liter four-cylinder produces a modest 138 horsepower, but at under 2,200 lbs, the car is light, tossable, and supremely communicative. Drive goes to the rear wheels through a crisp 5-speed manual, offering handling delicacy that belies its cost. It is reliable in true Toyota fashion, making ownership painless.

The MR2 Spyder is for the budget purist who wants mid-engine motoring for Miata money. It trades away the Audi TT's power and style, but offers a more focused and engaging driving experience. Compared to the TT above, it is less powerful and comfortable, but lighter and more agile. Clean Spyders remain an affordable and increasingly appreciated way into mid-engine sports cars, though the early SMT automated manual is best avoided.

10. Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB)

The Mazda MX-5 Miata ranks tenth because it offers the most fun per dollar of any 2000 sports car, full stop. Its 1.8-liter four-cylinder produces a friendly 140 horsepower, sent to the rear wheels through one of the best manual gearboxes ever made. It is not about outright speed, but the perfect, accessible joy of a lightweight rear-drive roadster.

The NB Miata is for the buyer who wants pure driving joy at legal speeds, with a vast community and endless aftermarket support. It trades away the MR2 Spyder's mid-engine balance and the TT's power, but offers a more direct and playful experience. Compared to the MR2 above, it is less exotic but more fun and easier to live with daily. Values stay friendly, making it the easiest entry point into the sports car world.

How we ranked these

We ranked each 2000 sports car against a fixed scorecard. Driving fun and handling received 30% weight, performance 20%, value in period 15%, reliability 15%, legacy 10%, and current collectibility 10%. Sources included period road tests from Car and Driver and Motor Trend, Hagerty valuation data, Bring a Trailer auction results, and manufacturer archives. All prices are period U.S. dollars.

We deliberately ignored modern-day nostalgia and speculative future appreciation. We also excluded subjective styling preferences and brand prestige unless they directly influenced legacy or collectibility scores. Our focus remained on the car as it was in 2000, not as a future investment. This kept the ranking grounded in the era's actual driving experience and practical ownership considerations.

What to look for

When choosing between these, prioritize documented maintenance history over low mileage. A well-serviced 60,000-mile car with receipts is a better bet than a 20,000-mile garage queen needing seals and fluids. For the S2000, verify valve adjustments; for the Boxster, budget for the IMS bearing; for the M5, check cooling and VANOS. Original, unmodified cars command the highest value now.

The biggest mistake buyers make is chasing the cheapest example without a pre-purchase inspection. Rust, crash damage, and neglected maintenance can turn a bargain into a money pit. Also, don't overpay for ultra-low mileage—a car that's been driven and maintained is often more reliable than a museum piece. Focus on condition and provenance, not just the odometer.

Related questions

What makes the Honda S2000's engine so special?

The F20C is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder producing 240 horsepower at 8,300 rpm and a 9,000-rpm redline. This translates to 120 horsepower per liter, an extraordinary figure for the era. Its VTEC system creates a dramatic power surge, and the engine is known for its durability and willingness to rev, making it a modern classic.

How does the Corvette C5 compare to European sports cars of 2000?

The C5 offers comparable acceleration to cars costing twice as much, with a 0-60 time of 4.8 seconds. Its LS1 V8 is robust and tunable, and the rear-mounted transaxle provides near-perfect weight distribution. While interior quality lags behind European rivals, its performance-per-dollar is unmatched, making it a compelling value proposition.

What should I look for when buying a used Porsche Boxster S (986)?

The most critical item is the IMS bearing, which can fail and destroy the engine. Check service records for replacement. Also inspect the cooling system, including the water pump and expansion tank. Look for a well-documented history and a pre-purchase inspection by a Porsche specialist to avoid costly surprises.

Is the BMW M5 E39 a good daily driver?

Yes, the E39 M5 combines supercar performance with four-door practicality. It seats five comfortably, has a large trunk, and is comfortable for daily commuting. However, maintenance costs are high, especially for the V8's cooling system and VANOS. A well-maintained example can be reliable, but budget for repairs.

Why is the Dodge Viper GTS so hard to drive?

The Viper GTS has no traction or stability control, a massive 8.0-liter V10 with 490 lb-ft of torque, and a chassis that demands respect. Its handling is raw and unforgiving, with a tendency to snap oversteer if pushed beyond limits. It rewards skilled drivers but punishes mistakes, making it a true analog supercar.

What makes the Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R so rare?

Ford built only 300 units of the 2000 Cobra R. It was a purpose-built track car with a 385-hp 5.4-liter V8, a Tremec 6-speed manual, and a stripped interior with Recaro seats. Its rarity, combined with its race-ready specification, makes it a highly sought-after collector's item today.

Is the Acura Integra Type R worth the high price?

For enthusiasts, yes. The DC2 Type R is considered the finest front-drive car of its generation, with a high-revving 195-hp engine and a chassis that offers exceptional precision. Its rarity and unmodified examples have driven values up significantly, making it a blue-chip collectible that rewards driving engagement.

How practical is the Audi TT as a daily driver?

The Audi TT is quite practical for a sports coupe. It has a usable hatchback, comfortable seats, and all-wheel-drive quattro for all-weather confidence. The 1.8T engine is reliable and tunable. While rear seats are small, it works well for one or two people with occasional cargo needs, making it a stylish and usable GT.

FAQ

What was the best overall sports car of 2000?

The Honda S2000 (AP1) won best overall for its 9,000-rpm engine, telepathic steering, balanced chassis, and Honda reliability. It offered a pure, engaging driving experience that no other car of the year matched, and it has since become a highly sought-after modern classic.

What was the best-value sports car of 2000?

The Chevrolet Corvette C5 was the best value, delivering 345 horsepower and 0-60 in about 4.8 seconds for a 2000 MSRP of $38,705. It undercut European rivals by tens of thousands of dollars while offering supercar-level performance and everyday usability.

Which 2000 sports car is the best collector buy today?

The Honda S2000 and Acura Integra Type R have appreciated strongly and lead the affordable-modern-classic surge. The Dodge Viper GTS and Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R command true premiums due to rarity. The S2000 offers a balance of driving fun and investment potential.

How fast was the 2000 Honda S2000?

The S2000 accelerated from 0-60 mph in about 5.9 seconds and had a top speed of approximately 160 mph. Its 2.0-liter F20C engine produced 240 horsepower at 8,300 rpm, with a stratospheric 9,000-rpm redline that defined the high-revving naturally aspirated era.

Was the Audi TT a real sports car or just a style icon?

The Audi TT was both, but with an emphasis on style. Its Y2K-defining design was the headline, and the 225-hp quattro version added all-wheel-drive grip and a 0-60 time of 6.3 seconds. However, it leaned more toward stylish grand touring than razor-edged sport, prioritizing usability and looks.

Which 2000 sports car is cheapest to own today?

The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB) is the cheapest to own. It has a low purchase price, excellent reliability, cheap parts, and a massive community and aftermarket support. Running costs are minimal, making it an accessible entry point into rear-drive sports car ownership.

What are common problems with the 2000 Corvette C5?

Common issues include the electronic column lock, fuel pump failures, and the notorious 'battery drain' from the computer. The LS1 engine is generally robust, but the plastic radiator end tanks can crack. Check for these issues and ensure the car has been well-maintained.

Is the Toyota MR2 Spyder a good first sports car?

Yes, the MR2 Spyder is an excellent first sports car. Its mid-engine layout provides balanced handling and sharp steering, and it's reliable and affordable. However, its modest 138 horsepower means it's not fast in a straight line, but it's forgiving and fun to learn on.

How reliable is the BMW M5 E39?

The E39 M5 is generally reliable if well-maintained, but it has known issues. The cooling system, including the water pump and expansion tank, is a weak point. VANOS units can fail, and the clutch and flywheel are expensive to replace. Regular maintenance is key to longevity.

What is the IMS bearing issue on the Porsche Boxster?

The IMS (intermediate shaft) bearing is a known weak point on the 986 Boxster. If it fails, it can cause catastrophic engine damage. Many owners replace it with an upgraded bearing as a preventative measure. A pre-purchase inspection should include checking for IMS bearing replacement records.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15107988/2000-honda-s2000-road-test-review/
• https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2000-chevrolet-corvette-c5-road-test/
• https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying-and-selling/the-honda-s2000-is-a-modern-classic/
• https://bringatrailer.com/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_S2000
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevrolet_Corvette_(C5)
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_Boxster_(986)
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_M5_(E39)
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dodge_Viper
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Mustang_SVT_Cobra

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