We can all agree that ‘sports car’ is the appropriate term for any fast car with a sleek design. But things become complex when ‘supercar’ enters the conversation. The sports car vs supercar debate has gone on for a long time, as many people tend to use both terms interchangeably, but they don’t exactly mean the same thing.
Let’s put all the guessing aside and finally learn the difference between both car categories. This guide covers the distinct features and capabilities of both vehicles so you can determine which is worth hiring or buying.
Table Of Contents
Sports Cars Vs Supercars Characteristics Comparison
Before exploring the distinct characteristics of both vehicle classes, let’s briefly define them as best we can. So, what are sports cars? Sports cars are cars that offer a higher level of performance when compared with regular cars. They’re agile, quick and built for people who get a thrill from driving fast.
Supercars are simply sports cars with the x-factor—more power and higher luxury levels. They are usually expensive and they take the performance of a sports car to the next level. Dodge Viper, Nissan GT-R, Aston Martin Vantage and Lamborghini Aventador fall into the supercar category, while the Toyota Supra, Mazda MX5 and Audi TT are great examples of sports cars.
Design
Sports cars have sleek bodies with aerodynamic designs. These vehicles are available in different body styles but the coupe and convertible designs remain the most popular. Supercars come with even bolder designs than sports cars. They appear futuristic, with advanced aerodynamics aimed at maximising performance in the car. Supercars are also built from superior materials like carbon fiber and precious metals, which makes them appear flashy and attractive.
Features
Sports cars are focused on providing a thrilling driving experience, and they come with a range of high-tech features, such as infotainment systems, driver assistance and other luxury amenities. Supercars, on the other hand, are built with cutting-edge technology. In addition to the features you get from a standard sports car, you also get extras like ergonomic seating, high-end audio systems and advanced driving aids.
Performance
Sports cars are built to ensure agile handling and responsive steering while driving. They typically come with six-cylinder or V6 engines but some models can offer higher versions, such as V10 for improved performance. Generally, sports cars are characterised by their ability to reach a peak speed of 150 mph (241 kph).
Supercars boast staggering horsepower figures. These cars generally achieve remarkable speeds, often surpassing 200 mph (322 kph) and going from 0 to 60 mph (97 kph) in as little as three seconds. Their amazing speed abilities are down to a mix of their light weight, aerodynamics and powerful engines.
A supercar usually has its engine position in the middle, as opposed to the FR layout, which is popular among cheaper sports cars.
Exclusivity
Sports cars are usually mass-produced and widely available. The production number of these vehicles can vary greatly, depending on the cost and manufacturers. Odds are you can easily find a sports car on the road, albeit not as many as regular cars. Exclusivity is one of the biggest selling points of supercars. They tend to be available in very limited quantities, which makes them very desirable and prestigious. Some models are so rare that ownership is seen as a status symbol.
Price & Maintenance
Sports cars offer a more accessible entry point. The cost of these vehicles begins at £27,000 for budget cars, but you can find models that cost over a hundred thousand pounds. Similarly, maintenance costs, including insurance, repairs and servicing, are generally lower for sports cars due to their more mainstream components.
A supercar will likely have a higher price tag than any sports car. They also demand a significant financial commitment in terms of ongoing maintenance. Supercars can start at around £150,000 but very exclusive models can set you back millions.
Manufacturers
Sports cars are produced by a diverse range of manufacturers, including mainstream automakers like Mercedes Benz, Audi, BMW, Lexus and Ford. Supercars are synonymous with automotive royalty. Manufacturers such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bugatti, McLaren and Pagani are among the elite producers of supercars.
Other High-performance Cars
In addition to sports and super cars, there is a range of other performance vehicles that prioritise speed and power.
Hypercars
Supercars and hypercars are quite similar, but the latter takes things to a whole new level. What makes a supercar a hypercar is an extra push in terms of speed and acceleration. For a car to be regarded as a hypercar, it should be able to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (97 kph) in less than three seconds and reach a top speed of around 300 mph (483 kph) or more.
Hypercars are expensive due to their performance and features, with prices starting in the millions. The limited production line of most hypercars adds to their exclusivity, making owning one a status symbol. The Bugatti Veyron, Lotus Evija and SSC Tuatara are perfect examples of hypercars, the latter being widely regarded as the fastest production car in the world.
See here to learn more about the capabilities and features of hypercars.
Muscle Cars
The American muscle car allows car lovers access to elevated-performance vehicles at a low price point. These cars are characterised by a powerful V8 engine that powers the rear wheels and a focus on straight-line speed. Many muscle cars have roots in drag races and are optimised for quick acceleration and high speed on a straight race track.
When it comes to design, muscle cars usually come as coupes or convertibles with very aggressive body contours. You’ll also find these vehicles with hood scoops and racing stripes.
GT Cars
GT cars or Grand Tourers promise a unique value that you won’t find in most high-performance cars – comfort. Rather than solely focusing on performance, Grand Tourers also offer a high level of comfort along with amenities suitable for long-distance journeys. Italian automakers like Ferrari and Alfa Romeo have a range of GT models in their lineups.
Final Verdict: Should You Hire Or Buy A Sports Car Or A Supercar?
You should hire or buy a sports car if you’re looking for a fast car—something more than a regular car but with a limited budget. The supercar territory is mostly reserved for those who are not restricted by budget. Sports cars promise spirited driving and high speed but at a performance level below that of a supercar.
Opt for the supercar if you want to experience the highs of automotive engineering and don’t mind the higher cost. It comes with top-tier performance, luxury and exclusivity. Supercars are also faster and have better acceleration stats than sports cars.
SDVH offers fantastic prestige car hire deals, allowing you to enjoy the best of the automotive world. Our fleet also features economy cars for hire, in case you’re looking for budget vehicles. Contact us to explore our car options in the UK today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s The Difference Between A Sports Car And A Supercar?
The difference between a sports car and a supercar is performance and price. Supercars typically have more powerful engines, allowing them to reach a higher speed and achieve quicker acceleration times. However, their advanced technology and features make them more expensive than sports cars. Sports cars can still be pricey, but they are more accessible to a wide range of buyers.
Is Lamborghini A Supercar Or A Sports Car?
Lamborghini is a supercar. The Italian manufacturer is renowned for producing luxury supercars. Their vehicles are known for their extreme performance, striking designs and luxury features, which align with the characteristics of a supercar. Models like the Lamborghini Aventador and Huracan are examples of vehicles that fall into the supercar category.
Who Are The Most Popular Supercar Manufacturers?
Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Bugatti, and Aston Martin are the most popular supercar manufacturers. These companies have built a huge reputation in the luxury car industry, manufacturing supercars and even some automobiles that have attained hypercar status. Other popular supercar makers include Pagani, Koenigsegg, Porsche and Mercedes AMG.
What’s The Top Speed Of A Supercar?
The top speed of a supercar is around 200 mph (322 kph). The exact speed of the car will depend on the particular model and manufacturer. In addition to their blazing speed, supercars are characterised by fast acceleration. The fastest supercar can go from 0 to 60 mph (97 kph) in as little as three seconds.
What Body Type Is Popular Among Most Supercars?
The coupe body type is popular among most supercars. The coupe body style is characterised by having two doors and a fixed roof, which provides a sleek and sporty appearance. While the majority of the supercars have a seating capacity for two individuals, there are a few cars, like the BMW i8, that have four seats.
Conclusion
This sports car vs supercar comparison clearly puts the supercar on top. And that is expected since supercars cost a lot more than regular sports cars. In the end, sports cars and supercars cater to different customer segments, and which one you hire or buy depends on factors such as budget, preference and intended use.