Porsche Boxster and Cayman
Base prices range: $52,396-$74,495 Boxster, $53,595-$76,195 Cayman

The base Cayman’s 2.7 has 275-horsepower, and the 3.4-liter in its S and GTS models rates 325 and 340, respectively. The GTS versions of both cars have different front and rear fascias from the other models and a GTS-specific interior package. Acceleration is all it needs to be, with base models around 5.5 seconds 0-60 mph. The Boxster GTS does it in 4.8 and reaches 178 mph, while the Cayman GTS with the PDK and standard launch control does it in 4.5. But it’s the way these cars attack a twisting two-lane that inspires. Impeccable steering, balance and grip create an intoxicating connection between driver, car and road. That these are beautifully designed and built creations, to boot, makes them easy first-ballot Best Sports Cars.