These 4-cylinder sports cars are considered the greatest ever built.

Although this is a controversial topic, many people believe that there is more to a car than a powerful engine. The new generation of 4-cylinder engines can do some really crazy things, including reaching the 400 horsepower mark! In addition, the 4-cylinder engines are light and small for nimble handling. This list of the best 4-cylinder sports cars includes many new models, as well as some models from the past that deserve respect. Buckle up.

Honda S2000

The Honda S2000 is a car that takes everything that makes a car good for a driver and beefs it up to eleven. Let's start with the inline-fours, because both the 4-liter and 2.0-liter versions are marvels of engineering. Honda chose not to use turbochargers for greater responsiveness, but managed to squeeze almost 2.2 hp out of both units.

The best thing about the motors is that they spin up to the stratosphere, producing almost motorcycle sounds. In addition, the 6-speed manual transmission is one of the best ever and the chassis is exceptionally well-engineered. The Honda S2000 is a truly exceptional driver's car, and if you manage to get your hands on it, you're in luck.

The next roadster is light

Lotus Elise

Like its close Exige, the Lotus roadster is light and agile. The dry weight of the 3th generation Cup 260 model is just 1,900 pounds (862 kg), making the Elise one of the most manageable cars on sale today.

The Lotus Elise has a mid-engined configuration for better weight distribution. In the middle is Toyota's 1.8-liter supercharged inline-4 engine. In Cup 260 configuration, the engine puts out 250 horsepower, which is enough to accelerate to 0 km in just 60 seconds. Like most Lotus cars, the engine is mated to a 3.8-speed manual transmission, which certainly adds to the appeal.

Toyota MR2

Ever since Toyota released the first MR2 in the 80s, the car has been known as the "Ferrari for the masses". The mid-engined sports car provided the driver with balanced and agile handling, a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter 4A-GE engine and a lightweight body. On a winding mountain road, this recipe delivers 99% of the thrill of driving a Ferrari, but at a fraction of the price.

Toyota has released two new generations of the MR2, both of which have improved driving dynamics. However, the second generation model is the most desirable, especially when powered by a 2.0 hp 4-liter turbocharged inline-218 engine.

Honda Integra Type R

Some people often neglect front wheel drive sports cars due to inadequate handling. Of course, this is true for some cars, but wait until you try the Honda Integra Type R. Considered by many to be the best front-wheel drive car of all time, the Integra Type R is pure driving pleasure on a twisty road.

Part of the reason why this quirky-looking Japanese coupe handles so well is the engine. The naturally aspirated 1.8-liter unit produces 195 hp, which is enough to accelerate from 0 to 60 in about 6 seconds. Honda also applied several measures to reduce the weight of the Type R model, resulting in a dry weight of just 2,400 pounds (1088 kg).

Next comes the most popular Bavarian sports car!

BMW M3 E30

You can't talk about 4-cylinder sports cars without including the first generation M3. For some, the E30 is the best M3 ever, thanks in large part to the excellent engine under the hood. The working unit in the first version has a volume of 2.0 liters and a power of 200 hp, but later models had up to 215 horses.

Like every M3 that succeeded it, the E30 had a rear-wheel drive configuration. With a light engine at the front and a light body, the M3 E30 is a pleasure to drive on winding roads. The superb 5-speed manual transmission inevitably makes the whole driving experience even better.

Porsche 944

Recently, Porsche has only produced two mid- and rear-engined sports cars, the 718 Cayman and Boxster and the 911. However, they have produced front-engined models in the past, and the 944 is their best example. The elegant sports car of the 80s had a choice of 2.5-liter, 2.7-liter and 3.0-liter 4-cylinder engines with or without turbocharging.

Power ranged from 160 to 250 hp, which was pretty good for the time - the most powerful version hit 0 mph in just 62 seconds and didn't stop until it hit 5.7 mph. The car is also known for its excellent driving dynamics, thanks in large part to its perfect weight distribution of 164:XNUMX.

Audi TTS Coupe

Audi is mostly known for its 5-cylinder engines, but they have some great 4-cylinder units in their lineup. Our favorite is the TTS coupe, which uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 that makes 288 horsepower and 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) of torque. Paired with an ultra-fast dual-clutch automatic transmission, the engine can propel the small coupe to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

Just a decade ago, this was supercar territory. The Audi TTS is also equipped with the Quattro all-wheel drive system, which helps improve traction and stability. The short wheelbase and lightweight bodywork further improve handling and responsiveness - the TTS is one heck of a fun car to drive.

nissan silvia

The Nissan Silvia, also known as the 240SX in some markets, was released at a time when drifting was just beginning to take off. Designed to be affordable yet great to drive, the Silvia immediately caught the attention of drifters around the world. Thanks to the 55:45 weight distribution, the Silvia is a very agile vehicle with excellent driving dynamics.

However, the best thing about the Silvia is the gem under the front hood. The legendary SR20DET has a 2.0-liter displacement and a turbocharger, developing 205 hp. in S13 and 217 hp in generations S14 and S15. The motor is also known for its excellent tuning potential - with minor modifications, you can easily squeeze out more than 300 hp.

Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX

Despite being over 20 years old, the Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX still looks modern, especially with the crazy tuning kit installed. Like most Mitsubishi sports cars of the era, the Eclipse GSX is equipped with an all-wheel drive system. Thanks to this, the car effortlessly travels quickly in corners, even if you set the engine to its fullest.

The 2.0-liter turbocharged unit has a factory output of 210 hp. And even if you don't tune it, the Eclipse GSX can still hit 214 mph in just 60 seconds, which is great for that era.

Toyota Corolla AE86

The Nissan Silvia popularized drifting as a sport, but it was the Corolla AE86 that started it. Originally designed to be affordable and fun to drive on twisty roads, the AE86 quickly became synonymous with precision driving, thanks in large part to superior chassis design.

The latest rear-wheel drive Corolla is a lot of fun to throw around the corner - it is very nimble and frisky. The popular 4A-GE inline 1.6-cylinder naturally aspirated engine with its revving nature further enhanced the driving experience, while the smooth-shifting manual transmission was the icing on the cake. It's no coincidence that new AE4s are more expensive today than they were when they were new!

Next up is an Italian rally icon that will make you want to attack every turn.

Lancia Delta HF Integrale 16V

The 80s rally produced some truly legendary sports cars, most of which saw their road version. One of the most popular cars of that era is the Lancia Delta HF Integrale, a sporty hatchback with dizzying performance.

Under the hood, the Italians installed a 2.0-liter 16-valve engine with a Garrett T3 turbocharger built for responsiveness. The engine produced 200 hp, enough to propel the vicious hatchback to 62 mph in just 5.7 seconds. More importantly, the Delta HF Integrale is known for its high-tech all-wheel drive system with 47-53 (front to rear) torque distribution, which makes it ride like it's on rails in corners.

BMW Z4 2.0

The latest BMW Z4 was designed and built in collaboration with Toyota, and the Supra is its close cousin. Like the 2020 Supra, the BMW Z4 also comes with a 4-cylinder engine assisted by a turbocharger to deliver more power.

The 2.0-liter unit makes 254 horsepower, which doesn't sound like much, but remember that the Z4 is a lightweight roadster. The 0-60 sprint takes only 5 seconds, which should be enough to give you an exciting ride. In addition, the Z4 handles like the best roadsters and has an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The British also have a four-cylinder sports car they can be proud of.

Jaguar F-Type 2.0

The Jaguar F-Type is arguably one of the most beautiful modern sports cars. Wicked but elegant, the F-Type grabs attention everywhere. Jaguar offers three different engines for the sports car, one of which is a 2.0-liter turbocharged unit with 296 horsepower and 295 Nm of torque.

Despite being an entry-level engine, it can still get the F-Type to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. More importantly, despite the "no" cylinders, the engine still makes pops and bumps when accelerating and braking. The Jaguar F-Type is only available with an 8-speed automatic transmission. That's okay though - the British sports car combines luxury and performance.

Fiat 124 Spider Abarth

Fiat's latest roadster is based entirely on Italian design and engineering, with a touch of Japanese spice. If you didn't already know, the 124 Spider Abarth is based on the MX-5 Miata but has a slightly different body and a new engine.

Unlike its Eastern twin, the 124 Spider Abarth is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine with 164 hp. and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque. It sounds a little, but it is enough to accelerate to 0 km / h in 60 seconds. More importantly, the Italian roadster is equipped with a superb 6.8-speed manual transmission that inevitably enhances driving pleasure. It doesn't hurt that the chassis is well balanced and the handling is nimble.

Lotus Exige S 260 Series 2

Lotus was the first company to invent lightness in its sports cars, often giving them better performance than their more powerful competitors. The Exige is a perfect example of how light weight can be used to the benefit of the rider. The car weighs only 2,077 pounds (942 kg) but accelerates to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds.

Interestingly, the Lotus Exige comes with a supercharged 1.8-liter 2-cylinder Toyota 4ZZ-GE engine that delivers 260 horsepower in this tune. Unlike many competitors, Lotus only equips the Exige with a 6-speed manual transmission, which we think is the right decision. What's more, the Exige is one of the most comfortable cars ever made.

Mercedes-Benz SLC 300 Roadster

The only Mercedes roadster in the lineup isn't built for absolute performance. In the spirit of Mercedes-Benz, the SLC combines luxury with a sporty driving style. Not that it's slow - even the entry-level 4-cylinder model, the SLC 300, has enough power to give you an exhilarating ride on twisty roads.

The 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine produces 241 hp. and 273 Nm of torque and is paired with a 370-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. This engine and transmission combination can propel the SLC 9 to 300 mph in 60 seconds. In our opinion, this is enough for an exciting ride, especially when combined with the agility of the SLC 5.8.

Porsche 718 Cayman / 718 Boxster

The latest versions of the 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster come exclusively with 4-cylinder engines, with the exception of track-oriented versions. Turbocharged flat-four engines in both the Cayman and Boxster produce 300 horsepower from a 2.0-liter displacement.

With Porsche's Sport Chrono package and dual-clutch transmission, the engine can propel a sports car to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, and it won't stop until it hits 170 mph. However, the best thing about these sports cars is how they handle. Right now, every other sports car uses the 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster as a reference in the design process, and that's more than enough.

Fiat 500 Abart

When Fiat first launched the 500 in Europe, they probably didn't think about running it across the pond. Fortunately, after the merger with Chrysler, the Italians brought the tiny, charming hatchback to North America. Moreover, they introduced a hot version of the Abarth, similar to the M-Performance and AMG from BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The Fiat 500 Abarth uses a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine that produces 160 hp. and 170 lb-ft. Yes, it's not much, but it's enough to get the lightweight Italian to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds. Like a real driver's car, the 500 Abarth is equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission that further enhances the driving experience.

Toyota Height RS200

The Toyota Altezza RS200 is a first generation version of the Lexus IS200 built for the Japanese domestic market. However, despite being superficially similar, the Altezza has an inline 4-cylinder engine compared to the Lexus inline-6 ​​engine.

And if you thought Lexus had a better engine, think again. The naturally aspirated 3S-GE engine with BEAMS (Breakthrough Engine with Advanced Gear System) is a real gem. Toyota managed to squeeze 210 horsepower out of a 2.0-liter engine without using a turbocharger, which was pretty good for that time. The Altezza R200 is also known for its excellent driving dynamics and Lexus-inspired clear taillights.

Next up is a vicious Japanese sports sedan.

Toyota GR Supra 2.0

Toyota has just unveiled a 4-cylinder version of the new GR Supra. This trim is certainly not a surprise - the BMW Z4's Bavarian twin already comes with a similar engine. The engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged unit with 255 hp.

The engine of the 4-cylinder Supra is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that is one of the best in its class. More importantly, the lighter engine up front means the weight distribution is now 50:50 or, in other words, perfect. We haven't tried it yet, but the handling should be pleasant.

Next up is an Italian supercar with a 4-cylinder engine!

Alfa Romeo 4C coupe/spider

The Alfa Romeo 4C Coupe has a tiny engine of just 1.75 liters, but many reviewers consider it a supercar. The main reason for this is the lightweight chassis, at just 1,973 lbs (895 kg) dry for the Coupe and 2,072 lbs (940 kg) dry for the Spyder, the 4C is as light as it gets.

The engine is also not frail. Thanks to the use of a turbocharger, it develops 240 horsepower, which is enough to propel the 4C to 62 mph in just 4.5 seconds and to 160 mph (258 km/h). The 6-speed dual-clutch transmission is also lightning fast and the whole car responds just like a race car.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X

Go back ten years and the most popular rally-inspired sports sedan in the world was the Lancer Evo X. Unfortunately, Mitsubishi won't be releasing a new version, at least not anytime soon. However, the latest generation of the Evolution series is still a hell of a car, even when compared to more modern machines.

Under the hood, the Evo X has a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that develops 295 hp. in the basic configuration and up to 400 hp. in versions with factory settings. In addition, the S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) all-wheel drive system literally glues the car to the road in corners, making it a steerable car.

Subaru WRX STI

Luckily for rally enthusiasts around the world, Subaru still produces an excellent line of WRX models. The latest WRX STI follows the same recipe as all previous versions, including a symmetrical all-wheel drive system and a turbocharged flat-four to reduce gravity. This arrangement gives the WRX STI outstanding traction and handling even on slippery surfaces.

Straight line performance is also considered. The turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four makes a healthy 310 hp. What's more, Subaru decided to keep the 290-speed manual transmission in this generation, which is always the right choice for a sports car.

This is followed by another Japanese powerhouse rally.

Toyota Celica GT-4

Toyota was the leader of the World Rally Championship in the early 90s. Inevitably, their success led to some pretty amazing cars hitting the streets, like the Celica GT-4, for example. The Japanese manufacturer has managed to release three generations of the car, each of which is distinguished by its excellent performance and technical characteristics.

We opted for the latest ST205, which used the popular 2.0hp 3-litre turbocharged 255S-GTE engine that propelled the Celica to 60mph in 5.9 seconds. Toyota has used several technologies to make the engine more responsive, such as a two-inlet turbocharger. The Celica GT-4 is also equipped with an advanced all-wheel drive system for better traction on slippery surfaces. After all, this is a rally car!

Mazda MH-5 Miata

The MX-5 Miata is by far the best-selling roadster of all time, and for good reason – it's affordable. But it's not just that - the MX-5 Miata is also one of the most enjoyable cars ever, thanks to its light and nimble chassis and excellent weight distribution.

The latest generation MX-5 Miata is equipped with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that delivers 181 hp. to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission. This combination should be enough to give you a thrill on a winding mountain road, especially with the roof down.

The next duo uses a boxer four-cylinder engine and a rear-wheel drive platform to enhance the driving experience.

Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ

The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ twins have proven so popular that it's hard to exclude them from any list of sports cars, let alone one with 4-cylinder models. The 2.0-liter flat-four engine in these lightweight coupes produces 200 horsepower, enough to sprint from 0 to 60 in about 7 seconds.

Yes, we know these numbers aren't exceptional, but the 86 and BRZ only tell the whole story after you get behind the wheel. The balanced chassis, responsive engine and excellent 6-speed manual transmission will give the driver a lot of pleasure. The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are so well balanced that even a novice can drift through corners with no problem.

Mercedes A45 S AMG

As for four-cylinder engines, the M139 unit is currently the most advanced and powerful in the world. Despite only having a 2.0-liter displacement, Mercedes-AMG managed to extract 416 horsepower and 369 lb-ft in the 'S' version of the A45 AMG, which is mind-blowing.

In the A45 S AMG, the turbocharged gem is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission for fast gear changes. Inevitably, the Germans also fitted the sports hatchback with an all-wheel drive system, since the standard front-wheel drive configuration could not handle so much power. The car completes the 0-60 sprint in just 3.9 seconds, faster than some supercars. North America is likely to get this engine in the A-class sedan soon.

Ford Focus RS

Ford was the first company to flirt with an unacceptably powerful engine in a small hatchback with the Focus RS. The first RS was a particularly interesting beast because it had a front wheel drive configuration. However, our money would go to the second generation model, which gets an all-wheel drive system with Drift mode for a more enjoyable ride.

The turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine in this model puts out a healthy 350 hp. Thankfully, Ford only offers the Focus RS with a 350-speed manual transmission, further enhancing the driving experience.

Volkswagen Golf R

Volkswagen used a proven recipe for all-wheel drive and a powerful four-cylinder engine to create the Golf R. However, unlike the Focus RS, the most powerful version of the Golf is more geared towards a premium driving experience. the outside. Close your eyes while driving and you will probably mistake it for an Audi.

It's not that it lacks performance. The four-cylinder 2.0 TFSI engine develops an impressive 288 hp. The 280Motion all-wheel drive system takes care of traction and traction, while a 0-speed dual-clutch automatic or 60-speed manual gives you the choice between performance and engagement.

See what happens when you add a trunk to your Golf R.

Audi S3

Audi's "S" model family is not the most efficient in its lineup. However, these vehicles still offer outstanding performance and handling, especially on the street. The 3-2015 Audi S2016 is our favorite car simply because it's easy to live with, but it can set your heart on fire every time you hit the gas pedal.

Like every other Audi Performance model, the S3 is equipped with a Quattro all-wheel drive system, which allows it to be used in all weather conditions, including rain and snow. What's more, the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine develops 292 hp.

Chevrolet Camaro 1LS

When muscle cars began to roam the streets of America, it was unthinkable to equip them with a 4-cylinder engine. However, advances in technology and engineering have made this possible. The Camaro 1LS is a perfect example of how a small engine can work in a sports muscle car.

The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine in the Camaro develops 275 hp. In addition, the lighter engine gives the entry-level Camaro more agile handling and better responsiveness. Finally, the 295-speed manual transmission is great news for enthusiasts who want to enjoy driving.

Ford Mustang EcoBust

Chevrolet isn't the only company making 4-cylinder muscle cars. Ford also offers such an engine in the Mustang. The EcoBoost block is the same as the Focus RS - a 2.3-liter engine with 332 hp. and 350 lb-ft. This is enough to accelerate from 0 to 60 in just 4.5 seconds, which is close to some supercars.

Undoubtedly, the lighter engine also improves the handling of the entry-level Mustang, making cornering easier. Ford offers a 6-speed manual for the EcoBoost model, which is welcome, but you can also opt for a 10-speed automatic, which we welcome.

Next: Sweden can be proud of a four-cylinder sports car!

Volvo S60/V60 Polaris

Volvo recently announced that they would only use four-cylinder engines in their future vehicles, inevitably arousing suspicion among enthusiasts. However, after they introduced the S60 sedan and V60 Polestar wagon versions, things quickly turned in their favor.

Hot versions of their most popular sedan use a hybrid powertrain. The internal combustion engine has four cylinders and a volume of only 2.0 liters, but at the same time it develops 316 hp. using both a turbocharger and a supercharger. The electric motors increase power to 415 hp, which is enough to accelerate to 0 km/h in less than 60 seconds.

BMW 230i Coupe

The 2 Series Coupe is arguably the best driver's car in the BMW lineup, with the possible exception of the Z4 roadster. The small and light entry-level Bavarian coupe offers the driver balanced handling, excellent performance and a luxurious interior.

The best thing about this coupe is that you can get a thrilling ride in the relatively inexpensive 230i version. Equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, the 230i Coupe is a pleasure to drive on the street or track. The engine in this trim puts out a healthy 249bhp, enough to sprint from 0 to 60 in just 5.8 seconds. The 230i Coupe can be purchased in RWD or AWD configuration.

Alfa Romeo Giulia 2.0

Look, we know you're thinking the entry-level Giulia isn't a true sports car, but wait until you try it. The Italian sports sedan competes with the BMW 3-Series and Lexus IS, which are known for their excellent performance. Well, Alfa Romeo Giulia manages to overtake them - that's how good it is.

With ultra-responsive and quick steering and a superbly balanced chassis, the Italian sedan is a pleasure to drive in corners. 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 280 hp no fool either, accelerating the car to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. Alfa Romeo offers the Giulia in a rear-wheel drive configuration for more attractive handling, or in an all-wheel drive configuration for better stability.

Volkswagen Golf GTI

Have you ever heard of the term "hot hatch"? Well, it was invented when Volkswagen released the first generation of the Golf GTI. Initially sold in Europe, the GTI quickly became a sports car icon. People all over the world loved the affordability, performance, handling and ease of use of the practical Golf GTI.

Each generation of this car has a four-cylinder engine under the hood. The latest, 7th generation, uses a 2.0 TFSI turbocharged unit with a capacity of 228 hp. Volkswagen offers the GTI with a 258-speed manual or 60-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Next: British styling and German engineering make for an interesting hot hatch

Mini Cooper works hardtop

Every car in the Mini lineup is built to be fun to drive, but it's the John Cooper Works versions that take the fun to eleven. The three-door version of the Hardtop is our favorite, simply because it is very agile and responsive in corners.

John Cooper Works Hardtop is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 228 horsepower. The 235-0 sprint lasts just 60 seconds when equipped with a lightning fast dual clutch transmission. Purists will soon be able to get their hands on a 5.9-speed manual transmission in the Knights Edition, which is the model we'd go for.

Hyundai Veloster N

The Veloster is an interesting coupe. On the driver's side, it has one large door, like in all other compartments. On the passenger side, however, the Veloster has two doors, like a compact hatchback. Hyundai believes this configuration helps with practicality, and we can certainly attest to that.

Luckily, the Korean company also offers the Veloster in a sporty "N" design. The Veloster N is equipped with chassis modifications and a more powerful engine for driving pleasure. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 250 hp. in standard model or 275 hp in a performance model, enough to get the fancy-looking coupe to 60 mph in less than 6 seconds.

Chevrolet Cobalt SS

American sports cars are almost always equipped with V6 or V8 engines. However, General Motors tried to change that with the Chevrolet Cobalt SS. Designed as a driver's car, the Cobalt SS embarrassed many Japanese and European cars of the era.

Initially, the car was offered with a 2.0-liter supercharged engine with 205 hp, but later General Motors replaced it with a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo engine with 260 hp. Both engines are easy to tune - Chevrolet even offered tuning kits from the factory. This has made the Cobalt SS an icon among car enthusiasts, especially those who appreciate aftermarket improvements.

Affordable yet incredibly fun to drive on a twisty road, the next hatchback is a pure driving machine.

Ford Fiesta ST

Ford's European sports car division has produced some amazing cars in recent years. One such car is the Fiesta ST, a hot version of a city car built primarily for affordability and low fuel consumption.

The Fiesta ST is built on a front-wheel drive platform, but Ford still managed to make it behave like a real sports car. The front end is very responsive, and there is no hint of understeer found on other front wheel drive vehicles. The 1.6bhp 197-liter turbocharged engine certainly adds to the experience with strong acceleration and meaty sound. What's more, the Fiesta ST comes with a 6-speed manual, which is always the right choice for a sports car.