When talking about sports cars, the Italian sports cars are the first thing to pop into anyone’s mind. It is a fact that nobody can deny. Whether you are a Japanese car brand lover or an American car brand enthusiast, you can never overlook the reputation that Italian car brands have created for themselves.
Italian cars are known worldwide for their class and strength. It may sound biased, but no one makes the sports cars roar like the famous Italian automobile brands. So, if you are an Italian supercar enthusiast who can not get enough of them, this Italian sports cars list is for you.
We will explore the top 16 sporty and fun cars that these popular European car brands have for the world. Let us get started and see what top automotive Italian car brands have in 2023.
16 Best Italian Sports Cars That Are Superior To Their Counterparts In Every Roar
Italian sports cars brands hold the biggest share of the Italian automobile industry. They have made Italy more than a country of love and religion. If you ever want to have the taste of speed, chase, & thrill and wish to go all fast & furious, all you need are the best Italian sports cars.
Speed and style are the base of any sporty ride. Since they arrived in the automotive world, they have been deemed as the rides for speed racing, like what people used to think about concept muscle cars.
However, with their brilliance, Italians have shown the world that sports cars can be a perfect ride for daily commutes as well.
Italians have shown the world the real potential of supercars. In this section, we have a list of Italian sports cars that roar super in every manner.
Their high-end mechanical parts, tech features, style, and design make them one of a kind & worth crushing on. So, whether you want to know about classic Italian sports cars or new ones, we have covered them all just for you.
But please remember that a few of the mentioned models are not in production anymore. Thus, you can find them only in the used car market.
1. Lamborghini Murcielago
If you are looking for sports cars that start with m, the Lamborghini Murcielago is for you. The Lamborghini Murcielago is one of the best luxury sports that you can consider buying in 2023.
2010 was the last production year for the model. So, you can get your hands on it only if you find a reliable seller in the second-hand market.
Even if you buy the second-hand version, you will still get to taste the powerful 6.5 liter V12 engine that is capable of channeling up to 661 horsepower.
The V12 engine comes paired with either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual transmission, giving you a maximum driving speed of 214 mph.
Also, this Italian car can speed up from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 3.5 to 3.8 seconds. Lastly, this vehicle will cost you around $450,000 for both coupe & convertible body styles.
Key Features Murcielago
- MSRP: $450,000
- Horsepower: 632 to 661 hp
- Engine: 6.5 L V12
- MPG: Up to 9 city / 14 highway
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic, 6-speed manual
- Top Speed: 214 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 3.5 to 3.8 seconds
- Dimensions: 182-185″ L x 81″ W x 45″ H
2. Pagani Huayra
The Pagani Huayra is a mid-engine sports car manufactured by the famous Italian sports car brand Pagani. Huayra model is the second offering by the company after their successful first launch, Zonda.
This Italian car made an official debut in 2011 and hit the dealerships in the model year 2012. This sports car comes in a 2-door coupe & roadster body style with Gull-wing & swan door styles.
With a 6.0 liter twin-turbocharged Mercedes-AMG M158 V12 engine under its hood mated with a seven-speed automatic transmission, it can produce a jaw-dropping 764 hp. You can attain a top speed of 238 mph with the brilliant Pagani Huayra and sprint from zero to 60 mph in under 3.3 seconds.
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Key Features Huayra
- MSRP: $354,000
- Horsepower: 764 hp
- Engine: 6.0 L twin-turbocharged Mercedes-AMG M158 V12
- MPG: Up to 11 city / 17 highway
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 238 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 3.3 seconds
- Dimensions: 182.1″ L x 80.2″ W x 46″ H
3. Alfa Romeo 4C Spider
The 4C Spider is one of the best Italian Sports cars Alfa Romeo made. This model from the automaker is something you should definitely check out.
2020 was the last model year of production for the 4C Spider. You can buy this sporty ride with the help of the best car lease deals for as low as $68,745. Alfa Romeo 4C Spider is indeed one of the most affordable Italian sports cars you can park in your garage in 2023.
The compact 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission gives you 237 hp. It might not be much, but for the offered price, these are pretty good numbers.
Key Features 4C Spider
- MSRP: $68,745
- Horsepower: 237 hp
- Engine: 1.7 L 4-cylinder
- MPG: 24 city / 34 highway
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 160 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 5.3 seconds
- Dimensions: 157″ L x 74″ W x 47″ H
4. Ferrari F12 TdF
The 2017 Ferrari F12 TdF is a luxurious Italian sports car well known for its hardcore track-ready variant. This two-door Italian car is powered by a 6.3-liter V12 front engine that can scream 770 horsepower while mated with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
If speed is what you crave, then this 2017 sports car will quench your thirst for sure. F12 can reach a top speed of 211 miles per hour plus gain an acceleration of 60 miles per hour in an astonishing 2.9 seconds is not a joke. This sturdy ride can be yours for a whopping amount of $621,600.
Key Features F12 TdF
- MSRP: $621,600
- Horsepower: 770 hp
- Engine: 6.3L V12 Gas
- MPG: Up to 11 city / 15 highway
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 211 mph
- Acceleration (0-60mph): 2.9 seconds
- Dimensions: 183″ L x 77″ W x 50″ H
5. Lamborghini Centenario
The next sporty ride in this Italian sports car name list is the Lamborghini Centenario. It is one of the top cars that start with c. Lamborghini holds a perfect synonym value with the word luxury. And it continues this legacy with its Centenario model.
Centenario is a limited-edition Italian sports car that was introduced by Lamborghini in 2016. This Italian car is powered by a 6.5 L L539 V12 engine paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drivetrain, roaring 770 hp.
With so much power, this ride can gain a top speed of 217 miles per hour. Furthermore, Centenario can accelerate to 60 mph in merely 2.9 seconds. The car comes in a two-door coupe & roadster body style, along with scissor doors. Only 40 cars were produced and were sold for a cost of $2.2 million each.
If you wish to keep such an expensive ride, we suggest you go for the best auto insurance to keep yourself safe from any sudden car expenses.
Key Features Centenario
- MSRP: $2.2 million
- Horsepower: 770 hp
- Engine: 6.5 L L539 V12
- MPG: Up to 11 city / 15 highway
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 217 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 2.9 seconds
- Dimensions: 193.9″ L x 81.2″ W x 45″ H
6. Lamborghini Diablo
Another Italian sports car that you should check out in 2023 is the Lamborghini Diablo. The Lamborghini Diablo was manufactured by the company from 1990 to 2001. It comes with a powerful 6-liter V12 engine paired up with a 5-speed manual transmission.
Diablo can produce 550 horsepower, which helps it gain a top speed of 202 miles per hour. If you are a fan of pop-up headlights or suicide doors, then this Italian car is going to make you happy for sure. The vehicle cost $268,630. You can negotiate your way to own this at any car sale you find it.
Key Features Diablo
- MSRP: $268,630
- Horsepower: 550 hp
- Engine: 6.0 L V12
- MPG: Up to 11 city / 17 highway
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 202 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 3.4 seconds
- Dimensions: 193.9″ L x 81.2″ W x 45″ H
7. Pininfarina Battista
A sports car that fits well in the description of the affordable Italian sports cars in 2023 is none other than the Pininfarina Battista. Pininfarina Battista is an electric sports car that made its debut in 2019, making it a fresh choice for 2023.
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This electric ride holds an all-electric powertrain that can make jaw-dropping 1900 horsepower and attain a top speed of 217 miles per hour. Also, with this Italian sports car, you can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in mere 2.4 seconds.
If you expect good gas mileage but in terms of electric range, Pininfarina Battista gives you 280 miles. Lastly, the two-door body style makes this coupe completely irresistible.
Key Features Battista
- MSRP: $274,900
- Horsepower: 550 hp
- Engine: 6.0 L V12
- MPG: 12.55 Combined
- Top Speed: 217 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 2.4 seconds
- Dimensions: 187” L x 78.2” W x 47.6” H
8. Ferrari Testarossa
If you are fond of classic Italian sports cars, then the Ferrari Testarossa is surely going to put a smile on your face. The 2 door Berlinetta body style, aide louvers, and pop-up headlights made this classic model a big hit of the 80s.
Testarossa came with a rear mid-engine paired up with a rear-wheel drivetrain and a 5-speed manual transmission. This Italian sports car grand tourer can speed up to a maximum of 180 miles per hour with an acceleration of 60 mph in 5.2 seconds.
If you buy it and wish to keep it for a long time, learn about its basic maintenance, like how often to replace tires, when to change the oil filter and more.
Key Features Testarossa
- MSRP: $181,000
- Horsepower: 385 hp
- Engine: Ferrari flat-12 engine
- MPG: Up to 9 city / 14 highway
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Top Speed: 180 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 5.2 seconds
- Dimensions: 176.6″ L x 77.8″ W x 44.5″ H
9. Lamborghini Aventador SVJ
Buying used cars is not the only way to get Italian sports car luxury. If you can splurge, then you can go for the recent launches like the 2022 Lamborghini Aventador SVJ. This recently launched luxury model is a legend despite being among the new Italian cars.
The car comes with a hefty 6.5 liter 12 cylinder engine mated with a seven-speed automatic transmission, producing about 759 horsepower.
This is no sleeper car, as it can take you as fast as 217.5 mph and accelerate from absolute zero to 60 mph in a meager 2.5 seconds. You can own this extravagant car brand and step out of the house in style for $515,000.
Key Features Aventador SVJ
- MSRP: $515,000
- Horsepower: 759 hp
- Engine: 6.5 L V12
- MPG: 9 city / 15 highway
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 217.5 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 2.7 seconds
- Dimensions: 195″ L x 83″ W x 45″ H
10. Pagani Zonda R
One of the upcoming Italian car brands is Pagani. The brand holds an unshakable reputation in the track racing world and has made it to the real world of racing with the launch of its sports car, Zonda R.
Zonda debuted in 2007 and comes in 2 doors Berlinetta, roadster, and Barchetta body styles. The model holds a carbon fiber body, high-end interior, and robust AMG V-12 engine paired with rear-wheel drive and 6-speed automatic transmission.
This splendid sports car produces an impressive 740 hp, which gives it a top speed of 233 mph and an acceleration time of just 2.7 seconds.
Key Features Zonda
- MSRP: $1,800,000
- Horsepower: 740 hp
- Engine: 6.0 L Mercedes-Benz M120 V12
- MPG: 14.7 Combined
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 233 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 2.7 seconds
- Dimensions: 192.4″ L x 79.3″ W x 44.9″ H
11. Ferrari LaFerrari
Want to own Italian cars that start with l, there is no better choice than the Ferrari LaFerrari. This Italian sports car is capable of producing up to 949 hp to its rear wheels, all thanks to its robust 6.3 liter 12 cylinder hybrid engine.
The rear-wheel drive gives you a better grip on the vehicle. You can smoothly go as fast as 218 mph and accelerate from zero to 60 mph in only 2.4 seconds. LaFerrari comes in coupe and aperta body styles. The coupe features butterfly doors, whereas aperta is all about swan doors.
You can make this ride yours for $1,416,362. But if buying is expensive, look for a car rental and rent it out for a time acceptable to you.
Key Features LaFerrari
- MSRP: $1,416,362
- Horsepower: 949 hp
- Engine: 6.3 L V12 Hybrid
- MPG: 12 city / 16 highway
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 218 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 2.4 seconds
- Dimensions: 185″ L x 78″ W x 44″ H
12. Lamborghini Miura
We know what you are thinking, but hear me out. We are talking about popular Italian cars, so how can I leave out the famous Miura. Lamborghini Miura is a prominent Italian sports car that was produced between 1966 and 1973. Sure, the model is no longer active, but we cannot deny its existence.
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Miura was the first hypercar that came with a rear mid-engine with a two-seat layout. When released, this Lamborghini was the fastest production road car.
Paired with rear-wheel drive & 5-speed manual transmission, this ride can attain a top speed of 170 mph with achieving an acceleration of 60 mph in 6.7 seconds.
Key Features Miura
- MSRP: $1,576,428
- Horsepower: 430 hp
- Engine: 3.9 L V12
- MPG: 17 city / 19 highway
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Top Speed: 170 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 6.7 seconds
- Dimensions: 172″ L x 70″ W x 42″ H
13. Ferrari 288 GTO
Another classic of the Italian sports car brands that is known for its strength and speed is the Ferrari 288 GTO. The model debuted in 1984, and only 272 models were made. GTO had a 2.9 L (2,855 ccs) F114 B 000 twin-turbo V8 engine with a power output of 395 hp.
This exotic homologation of the Ferrari 308 GTB was discontinued in 1987. However, it remains one of the most talked about sports rides.
The vehicle initially cost $83,400. But in a recent auction, it was sold at a whopping sum of $3,409,583, increasing the used model’s value way past the brand-new one.
Key Features Ferrari 288 GTO
- MSRP: $3,409,583
- Horsepower: 400 hp
- Engine: 2.9 L (2,855 cc) F114 B 000 twin turbo V8
- MPG: 11City / 23 Highway
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Top Speed: 189 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 5 seconds
- Dimensions: 168″ L x 75.2″ W x 44.2″ H
14. Lamborghini Veneno
Veneno is a limited-production, high-performing Italian sports car manufactured by famous Italian automaker Lamborghini. A total of 14 units were produced. Five were coupes, while the nine were roadsters.
The Lamborghini Veneno Roadster is the most expensive model in Lamborghini’s extensive history. When introduced, it had a price of $4 million. However, currently, it is worth $10 million.
Lamborghini Veneno has a 6.5 L L539 V12 engine accompanied by a 7-speed ISR automated manual transmission strong enough to produce 750 horsepower.
This sports car does not have a panoramic sunroof. Its roadster variant is much better as it is practically a two-seater version of a convertible. Enjoy your road trips by going at a top speed of 221 mph and acceleration of 60 mph under 2.9 seconds.
Key Features Veneno
- MSRP: $10 million
- Horsepower: 740 hp
- Engine: 6.5 L L539 V12
- MPG: 20.5 Combined
- Transmission: 7-speed ISR automated manual
- Top Speed: 221 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 2.9 seconds
- Dimensions: 197.6″ L x 81.7″ W x 45.9″ H
15. DeTomaso Pantera
Pantera is a mid-engine Italian sports car manufactured from 1971 to 1992 by Italian automaker DeTomaso. The vehicle was powered by various Ford engines with standard 345 horsepower. It is the most affordable Italian sports car ever produced.
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DeTomaso Pantera had an original sticker price of $10,000, which was affordable to most people at that time. However, in 2023, this vehicle is nothing but a classic collectible. Its prices currently start from around $50,000 and can easily go up to $250,000 for a model well kept.
Key Features Pantera
- MSRP: $50,000
- Horsepower: 345 hp
- Engine: 4.9 L (302 cu in) Ford 302 V8 (Pantera SI), 5.8 L (351 cu in) Ford Cleveland V8, 5.8 L (351 cu in) Ford Windsor V8 (1988-1990)
- MPG: 13.1 Combined
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Top Speed: 140 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 6.8 seconds
- Dimensions: 168.1″ L x 74.8″ W x 43.3″ H
16. Ferrari 458 Speciale
The 458 Speciale is a powerful sports car produced by none other than the famous Ferrari between 2010 and 2015. This prudent model was available in Berlinetta and retractable hard-top convertible body styles.
The Speciale was showcased to the world in 2009 and was introduced as the successor of the Ferrari F430. It came powered with a 4.5 L V8 engine paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, producing 597 hp. You can attain a top speed of 199 mph and sprint from zero to 60 mph in only 3.3 seconds.
Key Features 458 Speciale
- MSRP: $291,744
- Horsepower: 597 hp
- Engine: 4.5 L V8
- MPG: 13 city / 17 highway
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 199 mph
- Acceleration (0-60 mph): 3.3 seconds
- Dimensions: 180″ L x 77″ W x 47″ H
8 Best Classic Italian Sports Cars That Aren’t Ferrari or Lamborghini
Now that you are familiar with the best Italian sports cars, you might have noticed how most vehicles on our list were Lamborghini or Ferrari.
However, the truth is they are not the only sports car brands in Italy. They sure are the best, but not the only ones. Below, we have listed the 8 best Italian sports cars that are not either Ferrari or Lamborghini, and we hope you like them.
- Bizzarini 5300 GT Strada
- Alfa Romeo 8C 2300 Mille Miglia
- Pininfarina Battista
- Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale
- IsoGrifo
- Maserati MC12
- Alfa Romeo 1750 Spider Veloce
- Lancia Delta Integrale
Top FAQs About Affordable Italian Sports Cars
Are there any Italian sports cars with American engines?
An automobile company using another automotive company’s constructed parts is highly common.
Italian sports cars are the epitome of speed, thrill, and class, served with elegance. Most Italian cars are purely Italian-made.
However, there are a few models that have a few parts fitted in them from other automotive industries.
Many world-renowned Italian sporty cars come powered by American engines.
If you wish to own a car that has the Italian class & style but also the American trust, go for the rides mentioned below:
- De Tomaso Pantera
- Iso Grifo
- Bizzarrini Strada
- Scaglietti Corvette
- LaForza
- Zagato Alfa Romeo TZ3
- Qvale Mangusta
Why are Italian cars so good?
Italians are way too invested in what they do, and vehicles seem to be part of their culture. They seem to value that their products should showcase what they believe & desire.
Italian love for sounds, lines, and feel is what makes a hypercar worth buying. This is the reason why Italian automobiles are so good.
Furthermore, the Italian automobile industry has a long history in racing, especially in Formula 1, which is why all their supercars are track-ready.
What are the top Italian car brands?
In the world automotive industry, no one can do what Italians are doing. Italian cars are synonymous with luxury, class and style.
So, if you wish to own one, first learn about the most popular can makers from Italy.
The top 5 Italian car brands are:
- Ferrari
- Lamborghini
- Maserati
- Fiat
- Alfa Romeo
What is the most popular sports car in Italy?
Italy is the home of sports cars, and natives tend to have different preferences than the rest of the world. Some of the most popular sports cars of all time in Italy are:
- Lancia Stratos
- Maserati Ghibli Spyder
- Lamborghini Miura
- Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale
- Ferrari 250 GTO
- Ferrari 250 TestaRossa
Why are Italian cars so expensive?
Producing high-end sports cars that are made up of exclusive parts and are limited editions cost a lot of money.
Despite being limited in number, companies have to store the required parts in numbers, which causes extra expense.
Thus, the vehicles are priced high, keeping all the expenses in mind.
Are German or Italian cars better?
German cars are known for their reliability and efficiency. However, they lack personality.
On the contrary, the Italian cars are not only efficient but hold a tag for being the most stylish automobiles out on the road.
They are like the style icon of the automobile industry and are loaded with the best features that only speak power.
Are Italian cars unreliable?
No. Italian cars are not unreliable. Most of them turned out to be like this because of the problems caused by the owners.
If owners do not take care of their ride as instructed by the maker, the vehicle is sure to end up with problems.
It does not matter if you own highly reliable Japanese car brands or any other one. Poor maintenance will cause problems no matter what.
What is the rarest car?
The Ferrari 250 Grand TurismoOmologato is the rarest car in the world. The model was designed by none other than the legend Enzo Ferrari.
In 2018, this 1964 Ferrari was sold for $70 million, making it the most expensive car in history.
Conclusion
Italian cars are hailed across the globe not only for their style but the power and reliability they offer. This article covers the 16 best Italian sports cars that you should know about in 2023.
You can try to get your hands on them, but you are most likely to get them in the second-hand market. But the prices are so high that their older brand-new launches will get all shy.
