13 Lightweight Sports Cars That Crush Horsepower Charts
Lightweight Sports Cars That Deliver Big on Performance
Manufacturers have continually pushed the boundaries of speed and power in their pursuit of record-breaking top speeds. While large, powerful engines have been the go-to solution for achieving these feats, the rise of electrified powertrains has changed the game. Today’s top sports cars often boast horsepower figures that reach into the high triple digits. However, it's not just about raw power—lightweight design also plays a crucial role in delivering an exhilarating driving experience.
Some of the most thrilling sports cars on the market today are small, lightweight models that manage to match or even surpass the performance of heavier, more powerful vehicles. These cars leverage their low weight to compensate for their relatively modest power output, making the thrill of driving more accessible to enthusiasts.
Here are 13 standout examples of lightweight sports cars that deliver exceptional performance through clever engineering and strategic weight reduction.
2025 Mazda MX-5
The JDM sports cars of the 1980s and 1990s helped put Japan on the global automotive map. Even though the scene isn't as competitive today, the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata remains one of the best value-for-money options for drivers seeking a real driving experience. With a starting price of $29,530 for the soft-top model and $37,550 for the RF variant, the MX-5 is powered by a 2.0L DOHC four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque.
Despite its modest power numbers, the MX-5’s lightweight construction—weighing just 2,366 pounds for the standard model and 2,469 pounds for the RF—gives it a solid power-to-weight ratio of 0.076 hp/lb. The car uses aluminum for the engine block and cylinder head, along with a monocoque chassis and monotube shocks in the suspension, contributing to its engaging driving dynamics.
2022 Audi TT-RS
Although the Audi TT was discontinued in 2023, the 2022 TT-RS still offers impressive performance. Powered by a turbocharged 2.5L five-cylinder engine, the TT-RS produces 394 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Weighing 3,296 pounds, it achieves a power-to-weight ratio of 0.120 hp/lb. The quattro all-wheel drive system allows it to go from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph.
2025 Lotus Emira
The Lotus Emira, introduced in 2021, continues to showcase the brand’s expertise in performance engineering. Available in two versions—the First Edition and the V6—the Emira First Edition delivers 395 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It weighs 3,279 pounds, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 0.120 hp/lb. Priced at $99,900, the Emira combines top-tier aerodynamics with raw performance.
2025 Hyundai Elantra N
Hyundai’s N line has gained recognition for its performance-oriented models. The 2025 Elantra N features a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. With a curb weight of 3,186 pounds, it has a power-to-weight ratio of 0.087 hp/lb. The sedan offers sharp handling and punchy acceleration, going from 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
2020 Nissan 370Z NISMO
Nissan’s Z line has stood the test of time, and the 2020 370Z NISMO is a prime example. The NISMO version increases power to 350 horsepower and 276 pound-feet of torque, while weighing 3,457 pounds. This results in a power-to-weight ratio of 0.1 hp/lb, offering strong performance despite its weight.
2025 Toyota GR86
The 2025 Toyota GR86 shares a platform with the Subaru BRZ, but it edges out the BRZ slightly in terms of power-to-weight ratio. Powered by a naturally aspirated 2.4L flat-four engine, the GR86 delivers 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. With a curb weight of 2,811 pounds, it has a ratio of 0.08 hp/lb, making it a well-balanced sports car.
2022 Donkervoort F22
The Donkervoort F22 is one of the most extreme street-legal sports cars available. Weighing just 1,102 pounds, it houses a 2.5L turbocharged inline-five engine producing 500 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. This gives it a power-to-weight ratio of 0.4 hp/lb, allowing it to accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 2.5 seconds.
2020 Alfa Romeo 4C
The Alfa Romeo 4C, although discontinued in 2020, offered a unique blend of Italian flair and performance. Powered by a 1.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, it produced 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Its carbon fiber monocoque chassis helped keep its weight down to 2,487 pounds, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 0.095 hp/lb.
2025 Porsche 718
Porsche’s 718 Cayman and Boxster remain popular choices for compact sports cars. The 2025 718 features a turbocharged 2.0L flat-four engine producing 300 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. Weighing 3,040 pounds, it has a power-to-weight ratio of 0.098 hp/lb, making it a well-rounded performer.
2026 Toyota GR Supra
The 2026 Toyota GR Supra continues the legacy of the iconic JDM model. Equipped with a turbocharged 3.0L six-cylinder engine, it delivers 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. Weighing 3,400 pounds, it has a power-to-weight ratio of 0.112 hp/lb, making it a competitive option in its class.
2019 BAC Mono R
The BAC Mono R is one of the closest things to a Formula 1 car on the road. Powered by a 2.5L four-cylinder engine, it produces 338 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. Weighing just 1,224 pounds, it has a power-to-weight ratio of 0.276 hp/lb, making it one of the fastest cars in its category.
2025 Honda Civic Type R
The 2025 Honda Civic Type R transforms a practical hatchback into a high-performance machine. Featuring a turbocharged 2.0L inline-four engine, it produces 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Weighing 3,188 pounds, it has a power-to-weight ratio of 0.098 hp/lb, making it a versatile daily driver.
2018 Ariel Atom 4
The Ariel Atom 4 is a stripped-back, lightweight sports car that offers an unmatched driving experience. Powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, it weighs just 1,312 pounds. This gives it a power-to-weight ratio of 0.24 hp/lb, making it one of the most extreme road cars available.