Top 5 Fun Cars to Drive

An unparalleled driving experience

In a world where SUVs are a common sight, it can be a refreshing change to get behind the wheel of a well-sorted coupé that has been designed with the driving experience in mind.

Despite the transition to larger and more family orientated vehicles, a number of manufacturers have released some sensational cars in recent years. As a result, there is a variety for prospective buyers to browse from.

Ranging from everyday sports coupés all the way through to elegant weekend getaway cars, we have highlighted five of the best vehicles for keen drivers.

• BMW M2
• Porsche Cayman
• Jaguar F-TYPE
• Porsche 911
• Aston Martin Vantage

BMW M2

The BMW M2 can be argued as one of the best BMW M cars. The standard 2 Series was already an exceptional vehicle, but the M2 benefitted from bigger wheels and tyres, a wider stance, larger brakes, and an upgraded suspension set-up that is the hallmark of the M division. The end result is a car that is immensely good fun to drive, but also remarkably capable.

Part of the M2's ability to devour tarmac comes courtesy of the standout 3.0-litre, 6-cylinder engine.

The latest engine produces 454bhp and 405lb ft of torque, taking the BMW M2 from 0 to 62mph in as little as 4.1 seconds with the 8-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission and 4.3 seconds with the manual transmission.

Porsche Cayman

The Porsche Cayman is a thrilling sports car that has garnered a reputation for delivering an exhilarating driving experience. From its striking design to its exceptional performance capabilities, the Cayman is renowned for the sheer enjoyment it offers behind the wheel.

The handling and precise steering enhances the driving dynamics, offering a textbook sports car package. The 0 to 62mph sprint can be done in as little as 3.4 seconds, depending on the engine choice.

Opting for a manual gearbox over automatic will give you one of the purist sports car experiences available.

And whilst it is not what you would typically be looking for in a fun sports car, the Porsche Cayman also offers 405 litres of boot space split between the boot and frunk, which can come in very handy for carrying a lot of luggage.

Jaguar F-TYPE

If there is one thing Brits should be proud of, it is the breathtaking designs that our native car companies can produce. One such example of that is the Jaguar F-TYPE you see here, which is a two-seater sports car that looks utterly magnificent.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the F-TYPE is more than just a pretty face. The low-slung nature of its design combines effortlessly with the potent range of engines, which translates to a memorable driving experience. Rear-wheel drive models are the most rewarding in terms of engagement, but the all-wheel drive models offer incredible levels of grip.

Powering the F-TYPE are a variety of petrol engines, all of which have their own unique character. The large V8 is full of drama, and will never be short of entertainment. Although, the entry-level models with 296bhp offer a great blend of performance and balance, meaning it simply boils down to your preference.

Porsche 911

It was only a matter of time before the Porsche 911 made a guest appearance. And quite rightfully so, given its rich heritage and uncanny ability to deliver maximum driving pleasure. Any generation of 911 is worthy of a place in this article, but we are going to focus on the latest model.

Engineered to thrill and entertain, the suspension of the 911 has been honed over numerous generations. Each component of the car is tailored to the specification you go for, meaning features such as the brakes, gearbox, and engine all work in perfect harmony with each other. Translated, the driving experience is exceptional each and every time.

There are a variety of engines to choose from, ranging from a not-so-entry-level 380bhp Carrera through to the spine-tingling Turbo S, which produces 641bhp. Chassis systems to look out for include Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which enhance an already sensational driver's car.

Aston Martin Vantage

There is a compelling case to feature the Aston Martin DBS Superleggera here as opposed to the Vantage, what with its totally unique 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 petrol engine. However, the Vantage weighs approximately 200kg less than the DBS Superleggera, which certainly pays dividends.

Thanks to its lower kerb weight, the Vantage feels more agile and responsive to steering inputs. In addition, the beautifully-balanced chassis and powerful brakes - examples with carbon ceramic brakes do exist - allows you to make the most of the 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine that lives beneath the bonnet.

Courtesy of two turbochargers and a slick 8-speed automatic gearbox (manuals are available), the Vantage is able to deploy its 503bhp with ease. As a result, the 0 to 62mph sprint will take just 3.6 seconds and the Vantage will keep on accelerating all the way to 195mph.

Discover your next car through Stratstone

The great thing about the vehicles above is that they each offer their own unique take on what a driver-focused, fun car should be. For example, the BMW M2 is the obtainable sports car that can be used on a daily basis, whereas the Aston Martin Vantage is ideal for those wanting something for the weekend.

Regardless of which you choose, you will not be short of driving thrills. For more driving tips and car buying advice, feel free to browse through our blog section, which is regularly updated with fresh content.