The sportier version of this old standby, offers better control and more power—via stiffer sway bars and an 6-speed manual transmission (2006) coupled with a 2.0L engine. While many of the upgrades made to this trim level since 2006 are focused on function, there are a few improvements to the aesthetics of the car itself, including a red-stitched ball-gear shifter, darker wheels, and clean, edgy lines.

23. Honda S2000

Originally introduced at a 1995 Tokyo Motor Show as a concept car, the S2000 was produced formally from 1999 to 2009. It is of the roadster class of car and its name reflects its engine displacement volume, after the tradition of roadsters from the 60s.

While it is powered by a four cylinder in-line engine, it also focuses on a rear-wheel drive system with a rigid, lightweight chassis—the driver and passenger functioning as passive agents of downward force. A second suspension system was introduced, replacing the original A1 design, in the early 2000s.

24. Jaguar E Type

Manufactured from 1961 to 1975, with a recent renaissance in 2014, this toothsome automobile was an icon on the roads during its production. The reason behind this was largely excellent craftsmanship, good looks, and competitive pricing meant people not only wanted to buy it and drive it, they could afford to do so.

More than 70,000 E Types were sold, and it was ranked first on the Telegraph’s list of 100 most beautiful cars. Released in several models that included a Grand Touring coup, a four-seater with a longer wheelbase, and a two-seater convertible, this gem of design even excited the esteem of some powerful competitors. Enzo Ferrari declaimed upon its release that it was the most beautiful car ever made.

25. Lexus IS 300

The IS line has been produced by Lexus since 1998, and is still rolling cars off the assembly line today. In 2000, the IS300 and IS200 were introduced as variations on this theme. They both offer manual and automatic transmission options, but the IS300 has a 3.0L engine with a manual, inline-6 transmission and about 50 additional horsepower. As well, aesthetic touches were added and user interface technology was cutting edge.