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Three-quarter front view of a 2023 blue Nissan Z

Buyers Guide: The Best Sports & Muscle Cars for 2023

These Are Fantastic Machines for Track or Straight Line Performance

For adrenaline junkies and gearheads alike, the best sports and muscle cars of 2023 are the stuff of dreams. These high-performance machines offer thrilling acceleration, sleek designs, and the latest automotive technology. Whether you’re looking for a coupe or a convertible, there’s a perfect sports car out there. 

With a wide range of options available for different budgets and tastes, there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for the best of the best, here are some of the top sports and muscle cars of 2023.

  1. 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 1LZ Coupe
  2. 2023 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody Jailbreak
  3. 2023 BMW Z4
  4. 2023 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
  5. 2023 Porsche 911 GT3
  6. 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody Jailbreak
  7. 2023 Nissan Z
  8. 2023 Carroll Shelby Centennial Edition Mustang
  9. 2023 Lexus RC F Track Edition
  10. 2023 Chrysler 300C

2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 1LZ Coupe

Three-quarter rear view of a 2023 orange Corvette Z06

Via Chevrolet

Specifications

  • MSRP: $114,000 USD / $128,000 CAD
  • Engine: 5.5L V8
  • Power / Torque: 670 hp / 460 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 2.6 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 15 MPG combined / 15.8L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3-year/36,000-mile Limited

Our Take

The 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is based on the current Corvette C8.R but has a 5.5-liter LT6 V8 paired with an eight-speed automatic, a flat crankshaft, double overhead cams, and direct injection. It produces 670 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 GM engines ever.

The Corvette Z06 looks intimidating and athletic thanks to its aggressive bumpers, prominent front splitter, massive air intake, and sportier skirts.

2023 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody Jailbreak

Side view of a 2023 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Jailbreak

Via Stellantis

Specifications

  • MSRP: $86,500 USD / $95,690 CAD
  • Engine: 6.2L Supercharged V8
  • Power / Torque: 797 hp / 707 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 15 MPG combined / 15.6L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile 

Our Take

Seven seat, stripe, and wheel color combinations, six brake caliper colors, five exterior badging finish options, and four steering wheel, seatbelt color, and floor mat options are available with the Jailbreak option package. In addition to the revised engine calibration and the “Jailbreak” emblem on the dashboard, customers get an additional 10 horsepower.

Unlike other muscle cars, the Challenger has a spacious cabin that can accommodate four people and their belongings.

2023 BMW Z4

Rear-view of a 2023 purple BMW Z4

Via BMW

Specifications

  • MSRP: $52,800 USD / $67,000 CAD
  • Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged I6
  • Power / Torque: 382 hp / 369 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 28 MPG combined / 9.1L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 4-Year / 50,000-Mile

Our Take

The 2023 BMW Z4 is a gorgeous two-door roadster boasting outstanding exterior design, exciting performance. All trims rely on the same 3.0 turbocharged inline-six paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

With its long hood, low stance, and muscular haunches, the Z4 oozes athleticism and refinement. The cabin is a luxurious retreat with high-quality materials and a layout that puts the driver first. The car has precise steering and quick reflexes, making driving a joy.

2023 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

Front view a 2023 red Camaro ZL1

Via Chevrolet

Specifications

  • MSRP: $75,400 USD / $79,000 CAD
  • Engine: 6.2L Supercharged V8
  • Power / Torque: 650 hp / 650 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 28 MPG combined / 12.6L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile

Our Take

The massive air inlets and more menacing proportions of this 650-horsepower muscle car show that it favors track performance above straight-line speed while maintaining street practicality.

The ZL1’s improved handling results from its superior suspension and aerodynamics. The ZL1’s lateral performance is taken to a supercar level by the Extreme Track Performance package. The Camaro may not be as technologically advanced as its German competitors, but it makes up with tons of fun on and off the track.

2023 Porsche 911 GT3

Three-quarter front view of a 2023 blue Porsche 911 GT3

Via Porsche

Specifications

  • MSRP: $161,000 USD / $180,300 CAD
  • Engine: 4.0L Flat-6
  • Power / Torque: 510 hp / 346 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 3.3 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 16 MPG / 12.9L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 4-Year / 50,000-Mile 

Our Take

The 2023 Audi RS5 is a refined twin-turbo V6 sports coupe with aggressive looks and standard all-wheel drive. Although the RS5 is not necessarily a track-focused model, it offers exhilarating acceleration and fantastic handling. 

The luxurious cabin comes standard with the usual Audi tech goodies, and the rear-seat passengers are afforded a respectable amount of legroom compared to the front. 

2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody Jailbreak

2023 green Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Widebody Jailbreak doing a burnout

Via Stellantis

Specifications

  • MSRP: $117,000 USD / $126,370 CAD
  • Engine: 6.2L Supercharged V8
  • Power / Torque: 797 hp / 707 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 16 MPG combined / 14.5L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile 

Our Take

Seven seat, stripe, and wheel color combinations, six brake caliper colors, five exterior badging finish options, and four steering wheel, seatbelt color, and floor mat options are available with the Jailbreak option package. In addition to the revised engine calibration and the “Jailbreak” emblem on the dashboard, customers get an additional 10 horsepower.

In addition to the features listed above, the Jailbreak package includes a few other minor changes, such as a new exhaust system and suspension tuning.

2023 Nissan Z

Three-quarter front view of a 2023 blue Nissan Z

Via Nissan

Specifications

  • MSRP: $40,990 USD / $46,498 CAD
  • Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbocharged V6
  • Power / Torque: 400 hp / 350 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 4.3 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 20 MPG combined / 11.9L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile 

Our Take

 The 2023 Z is a proper driver’s car with a stiff chassis, a sport-tuned suspension, and a limited-slip differential. The interior is more comfortable and stylish, with high-quality materials and many features.

The design is inspired by the classic Z cars but is also modern, with a long hood, a short rear deck, and a sleek and sporty overall design. The 2023 Z has a 6-speed manual transmission, a rare and welcome feature in a new sports car.

2023 Carroll Shelby Centennial Edition Mustang

Three-quarter front view of a 2023 black Caroll Shelby Centennial Edition

Via Shelby

Specifications

  • MSRP: $49,995 USD / N/A CAD
  • Engine: 5.0L V8
  • Power / Torque: 750 hp / 410 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 18 MPG combined / 16.7L/100km combined (V6)
  • Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile 

Our Take

The Mustang’s stock 5.0L V8 is supercharged, reaching 750 horsepower. Other upgrades include a Borla cat-back exhaust, race-inspired aftermarket radiator, performance springs, sway bars, and adjustable caster and camber plates. 

Additionally, Brembo front brake calipers were made standard to reduce the car’s overall stopping distance. The addition of Shelby-spec 305/30/20 performance tires further aids these efforts. This special edition Mustang is available with a six-speed manual or ten-speed automatic.

2023 Lexus RC F Track Edition

Three-quarter side view of a 2023 grey Lexus RC F Track Edition on a wet track

Via Lexus

Specifications

  • MSRP: $101,170 USD / $123,000 CAD
  • Engine: 5.0L V8
  • Power / Torque: 470 hp / 395 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 3.96 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 20 MPG combined / 11.2L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 4-Year / 50,000-Mile 

Our Take

The Track Edition of the RC F shed 143 pounds thanks to carbon fiber components. Its 395 lb-ft of torque and 470 horsepower may not sound impressive compared to competitors with turbocharged engines, but its exceptional throttle response makes up for the torque deficit. 

The RC F’s eight-speed automatic delivers snappy and responsive downshifts. The Track Edition’s upgraded chassis provides more confidence when entering a corner and enhances the car’s ability to rotate and adjust mid-turn.

2023 Chrysler 300C

Three-quarter front view of a 2023 red Chrysler 300C

Via Stellantis

Specifications

  • MSRP: $56,600 USD / $73,900 CAD
  • Engine: 6.4L V8
  • Power / Torque: 450 hp / 575 lb-ft
  • Drivetrain: RWD
  • 0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds
  • Fuel Economy: 19 MPG combined / 11.9L/100km combined
  • Basic Warranty: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile 

Our Take

The new Chrysler 300C has a black grille with the brand’s emblem, LED bulbs, 20-inch forged wheels, and red Brembo brake calipers for a sporty and sophisticated look. 

The naturally aspirated HEMI V8 engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a limited-slip differential. Performance upgrades include active suspension dampening and an active exhaust system. Although AWD is available, fans of traditional muscle cars should stick with the RWD.