Since sports cars have started out as racing machines, they are catered to the driver, and that's the part of their appeal. Besides, there is always a powerful engine stashed beneath the glamorous hood, which is also a part of what the whole thing is about. The engine is often accompanied by an exhaust system that acts as a megaphone. Why would anyone need to broadcast the engine's roar? Because no one knows you're driving a mighty car without hearing it.
One of the unfortunate rules of the automotive industry is that no matter how hard you try, a good car doesn't mean it will sell. Nowadays, vehicles are an accessory, and people are looking for more things than a powerful engine and mileage. This led to a number of amazing sports cars being made and quickly disregarded for no reason. These are excellent sports cars nobody wants to buy.
15 Acura NSX
When it comes to the Acura NSX, the price is the main issue. Still, those who can afford a ridiculously expensive car also ignore it. This underrated model features exotic looks and the twin-turbocharged V6 engine that delivers 573 horsepower and pushes the car to 60 mph in 3 seconds.
14 BMW 2 Series
Of course, you can spend lots of money on the hardcore M2, but if you don't have that much cash, the 2 Series will be the next best option. However, the company sold less than 30,000 units in 2017. Sounds good, right? Not really. The same year, the X5 SUV sold nearly 55,000 models.
13 Cadillac ATS
The ATS is one of the best things that have happened to the brand in a long time. Cadillac managed to produce a capable sports machine that challenges BMW. However, customers in the US don't see it that way. The ATS falls victim to Cadillac's reputation and most buyers don't even look at it.
12 Nissan 370Z
Perhaps, you've seen the Nissan 370Z in video games. The thing is, the real-life version is just as good. The V6 engine delivers 350 hp and you can choose between a manual and automatic transmission. The price is quite affordable, but Nissan couldn't even sell 5.000 models in 2018.
11 Nissan GT-R
The GT-R is faster than Porsche and has a top speed of 200 mph thanks to a turbocharged V6. It comes with advanced gadgets and driver-assistance features. However, it is a victim of bad marketing. It was featured in movies and video games but the company could only sell 600 models in 2017.
10 Subaru BRZ
The BRZ is the only Subaru without all-wheel-drive, and it can give you thrills. However, Subaru customers don't care about that because they're not in the market for a sports car. They want something like the Forester. Over 175.000 Foresters were sold in 2017. In comparison to the Forester, only 4,131 BRZs were sold.
9 BMW Z4
The BMW Z4 has been featured in TV shows and movies. It continues the company's legacy of performance automobiles. Under the hood sits a 3.3L L6 engine that delivers 330 horsepower. Some models can deliver even more. Unfortunately, the BMW Z4 couldn't find the audience and has been long forgotten.
8 Lotus Evora
The Lotus Evora was used in several James Bond movies but failed to attract the audience. The Evora features sleek curves and hides a mighty 3.5L V6 engine that delivers 410 horsepower. With a top speed of 186 mph, it hits 60 mph in 4.1 seconds. Still, something threw people off.
7 Chevrolet SS
The Chevrolet SS is a sports sedan that generates 416 horsepower and hits 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. Some people love the SS for its luxurious interior and sexy exterior design. However, the SS was a flop and the company had to offer a $10,000 cashback to boost sales.
6 Porsche Cayman
The Porsche Cayman was declared "Motor Trend's 2nd best Drivers car in 2017" and praised for its throttle response and handling. The company tried to push its timeless design a bit further and the result was superb. Yet, other Porsches sold much better. The mid-engined model was overshadowed by the 911.
5 Mercedes-AMG GT
The Mercedes-AMG GT is a demonstration of what Mercedes can do. Less than 2.000 examples were sold in the US in 2017. Those numbers are nothing compared to other Mercedes vehicles, such as the GLC crossover. Truth be told, the company has never relied on the GT to make a buck.
4 Jaguar F-Type
The Jaguar F-Type is fun to drive, fast, and capable of a mighty engine noise. However, this is not enough. The sales speak for themselves: the company barely sold 4.000 units in 2017. Jaguar has already unveiled the 2021 F-type with a redesigned exterior, so hopefully, it will achieve better sales.
3 Fiat 124 Spider
When it comes to sports cars, Fiat has a hit-and-miss record. The Spider, however, is an exotic ride that mixes Japanese tradition with an Italian vibe. The turbocharged L4 engine packs a great punch that's complemented by superb handling. Even the fact that the car is affordable can't fix sales problems.
2 Lexus LFA
With a limited production run between 2010 and 2012, the Lexus LFA was one of those engineering marvels we get to see once every decade. It offered a powerful V10 and lots of carbon fiber parts. However, it was a complete flop. There are still lots of LFAs for sale and no one wants them.
1 Alfa Romeo 4C
Even though the Alfa Romeo 4C was a limited production model from the very beginning, the sales were dwindling. In 2017, only 406 units were sold. The car is worth your attention, though, with its turbocharged engine producing 237 hp paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. It offers superb steering feedback.