There’s an expansive array of 2 seater cars proffered from automakers throughout the USA. The range comprises respected names catering to a diverse array of appeals, with performance and style icons such as the Chevrolet Corvette and more sophisticated leisure speedsters such as the Jaguar F-Type making an appearance. Whatever the penchant may be, these sporty vehicles have always made sense as 2 person cars with the seating layouts proving much too cozy for a family. So whether it’s out of pure desire or because the opportunity to simply own a small 2 seater car has come to fruition at long last, there’s more reason to buy one than just to squelch a midlife crisis.
Performance: Most small two-seater cars are performance-oriented and are hence purposed for capable acceleration and poised handling dynamics. For this, high-powered motors are often standard for the class. As two-person-only cars, they tend to be more focused toward capability than comfort on the road, however, the more contemporary releases usually balance these dynamics pretty well. Various drive modes are offered, allowing the driver to switch between sport and luxury.
Powertrain: Many in this class are high-powered with most coming with large, large-displacement engines spanning from anything between a turbocharged four-cylinder to naturally-aspirated V10’s. Automatic gearboxes are typical in most models, though manual shifting modes with steering-wheel-mounted paddles are usually specified. A rear- or all-wheel drive setup can be expected. Sport-tuned underpinnings including suspension, brakes, and adaptable steering mechanisms are the norm.
Features: The basic features list is usually quite extensive. Sporty elements such as leather-wrapped steering wheels, race-inspired gauges, front bucket seats, carbon-fiber trim, and aluminum foot pedals are some of the common constituents. Some luxuries include the likes of keyless entry and ignition, automated temperature control, seat heating, touchscreen infotainment, and satellite radio.
Top-rated two-seater cars for 2022
Our top coupes, ranked according to our BuzzScore system, include models from venerable German and Italian brands, but interestingly, none from BMW, Cadillac, or Lexus. The five cars at the apex of the list are the Audi R8 in pole position with a score of 9.1, followed by the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT, Acura NSX, McLaren GT, and Ferrari’s SF90 Stradale, all with a ranking of 8.9. The Toyota, Porsche, and Chevrolet brands also make it into the first ten.
What to consider before buying
Before forking out your life’s savings to acquire one of these emotive beauties, here are some things to ponder on:
Pros
Exhilarating drive and handling characteristics
Eye-catching and envy-instilling aesthetics
Most versions carry plenty of tech
Status and street cred by the bucket load
Cons
Not very practical as daily runabouts
2-seater sports cars are never cheap
Cabin interiors are typically cramped
Less space for occupants than 2+2 layout coupes
FAQs
What’s the most affordable 2 seat coupe?
With a starting price under $24k the smart EQ fortwo is the most affordable 2 passenger car for sale on the US market. It is no grand tourer or sports car, however.
What’s the fastest two-seater coupe available?
The Ferrari SF90, with its 0-60mph sprint time of only 2.6 seconds, is the fastest performance-oriented sports car from the class.