Its first model, the Lexus LS, became renowned as a true S-Class rival at a fraction of the cost and is known as one of the most reliable cars ... less than $15k and, with some work, could come close ...

Sports cars may be awesome, but they do have a few downsides. After all, they don't exactly offer room for five friends to join you like the second-coolest type of vehicle — the minivan — does.

But a breakdown can quickly turn that enjoyment into frustration. While most of today’s sports cars can deliver the fun without the worry about being stranded on the side of the road ...