Drive in Style
Wouldn't it be nice if every good-looking car out there performed as well as it looked? Alas, most of the time you get one or the other: a handsome ride that's equipped with a less-than-exciting engine, or an unassuming chassis that packs a surprising punch. It just goes to show that not every head-turning model will actually take your breath away, and that you shouldn't judge a car by its exterior. Here are 10 cars that drive better than they look, and 10 that look better than they drive.
Alexandre Prévot from Nancy, France on Wikimedia
1. Honda Civic Type R
The Civic Type R has never been particularly subtle, and some generations have worn enough questionable vents, wings, and aggressive trim to divide opinion. Get behind the wheel, though, and it's a world of difference. It's one of those front-wheel-drive performance cars you won't get tired of driving.
2. Toyota GR Corolla
At first glance, the GR Corolla doesn't really stand out among the crowd. That is, until its turbocharged three-cylinder engine, all-wheel-drive system, and manual transmission quickly reveal that there's more oomph happening underneath its unassuming exterior. A compact performance car that still feels energetic and responsive—what more could you ask for?
3. Volkswagen Golf GTI
The old-timey styling of the Golf GTI (at least the older models) probably wouldn't make anyone bat an eye, but the chassis is sure to give you a memorable ride. Add strong acceleration and everyday comfort, and you get a car that's far more enjoyable than you'd expect.
4. Chevrolet SS
Complete with a powerful V8, rear-wheel drive, surprisingly capable handling, and a manual transmission option, the Chevrolet SS is a reminder that you should never judge a book by its cover. That combination also gives drivers something rare: serious performance without the aggressive styling.
5. Ford Fiesta ST
Despite the Fiesta's basic proportions, the ST version's sharper suspension and turbocharged engine are sure to reward adventurous drivers. Though not extraordinarily powerful, its light weight and responsive controls will give drivers a run for their money.
6. Hyundai Elantra N
The unusual front end and angular detailing of the Elantra N certainly won't appeal to everyone, but Hyundai has completely transformed the standard sedan into a performance car, complete with precise handling and a beastly engine. Thankfully, comfort remains a plus, meaning it makes a great daily driver as well.
7. Subaru WRX
Aside from the fact that the WRX has spent much of its run wearing controversial designs, its enduring appeal comes from its performance, all-wheel-drive traction, and reassuring sense of control. The styling may still attract heated debates, of course, but its ability to handle difficult roads and poor weather has always played a key part in attracting drivers.
8. Mazda3
Though a regular Mazda3 doesn't technically come with a performance badge, it more than makes up for it: its steering, body control, and carefully tuned controls make it incredibly engaging to drive compared to other compact cars. If you value handling and responsiveness, this car gives you just that.
9. Volvo 850 R
Don't overlook the Volvo 850 R, even if it looks like any other regular family car from the '90s. If you do, you'll end up missing its turbocharged five-cylinder engine and sportier suspension. The wagon version is even more memorable, as it packs speed while retaining the cargo space and usability that made the regular 850 so practical.
10. Saab 9-3 Viggen
Sure, the Saab 9-3 Viggen doesn't have much visual drama beyond some modest sporty details. Underneath it all, though, is an engine primed for performance, giving the car a much stronger personality. Although torque steer could demand your attention, that slightly unruly character is also part of what made the Viggen so memorable to drive.
And yet, for all the books you shouldn't judge by their cover, there are the ones you should. Let's flip the script and look at some cars that might look great, but lack the performance you might expect.
1. DeLorean DMC-12
The stainless-steel DeLorean DMC-12 might have a recognizable shape, but unfortunately, that's where the good part ends. Its modest V6 performance was never anything to write home about, especially given its rugged appearance.
Grenex at English Wikipedia on Wikimedia
2. Toyota Celica GT
As economical and dependable as the standard GT's four-cylinder engine was, it didn't always deliver the nifty speed some drivers would expect from such a low, sporty design. Driving one was no different from handling any other coupe.
3. Mitsubishi Eclipse
The third-generation Eclipse arrived with sweeping bodywork and sporty proportions that made it look ready for serious performance—but, alas. Compared with the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive versions of earlier generations, it was no more than just a chic-looking front-wheel-drive coupe.
4. Chrysler Crossfire
Exotic as the Crossfire looked with its long hood, short rear deck, and distinctive rear styling, what lay under the hood was pretty disappointing. Much of its engineering came from the older Mercedes-Benz SLK platform, and driving one was, for lack of better words, fairly mundane.
5. Pontiac Fiero
The Fiero's mid-engine layout and wedge-shaped body certainly made for an interesting design (not to mention those cool headlights), especially for an affordable American car of the 1980s. Those early versions, however, were hampered by modest power and handling that never quite matched the potential of the layout.
dave_7 from Lethbridge, Canada on Wikimedia
6. Cadillac XLR
Drivers would probably expect an athletic performance from the Cadillac XLR, given its striking retractable hardtop, sharp bodywork, and underlying Corvette connections. In reality, though, Cadillac emphasized comfort and luxury, leaving the XLR feeling less engaging than either its styling or mechanical components might suggest.
7. Alfa Romeo 4C
Whatever expectation you have in mind when you look at the Alfa Romeo 4C, scrap it. Sure, its lightweight construction and mighty engine provide some excitement, but its poor handling and limited refinement nearly cancel every good thing out. To each their own, though; some enthusiasts may still appreciate it for what it is.
The Essex car spotter on Wikimedia
8. Chevrolet Camaro
The modern Camaro might look like a proper muscle car, but there's not a lot going for its overall appeal. Its thick pillars, a high beltline, and limited outward visibility may also make it feel rather cumbersome to drive. Other than its strong engine and capable handling, this is another ride you'd probably skip.
9. Smart Roadster
As playful as the tiny Smart Roadster looks, its modesty doesn't follow through. For one, the notoriously slow automated manual transmission would drive you nuts! The chassis had promise, sure, but the wonky gearbox often made the car feel less than responsive.
10. Plymouth Prowler
The Plymouth Prowler remains one of the boldest production cars to come out of an American manufacturer—its exposed front wheels and hot-rod-inspired proportions were unlike almost anything else on the road. Yet, instead of the anticipated V8 engine, its V6 offered pretty basic performance, and its restrained power delivery meant the experience rarely felt as exciting as the car looked.
