The Best British Sports cars of the 20th Century

Written by John O'Cean.

The Best British Sports Cars of the 20th Century: A Timeless Legacy

British sports cars hold a prominent place in the automotive world, renowned for their impeccable craftsmanship, elegant designs, and exhilarating performance. Throughout the 20th century, the United Kingdom became a breeding ground for some of the most iconic and influential sports cars the world has ever seen. From the classic elegance of Jaguar to the raw power of Aston Martin, British manufacturers left an indelible mark on automotive history. In this article, we will explore and celebrate the best British sports cars of the 20th century, highlighting their unique features, contributions, and enduring legacy.

Jaguar E-Type

Aston Martin DB5

Lotus Elan

MGB

• Jaguar E-Type (1961-1975): The Jaguar E-Type, often hailed as one of the most beautiful cars ever made, epitomizes British sports car design. Its long, sweeping lines, low-slung silhouette, and exceptional performance captivated enthusiasts worldwide. With a powerful inline-six engine, the E-Type achieved breathtaking speeds, making it a true icon of its time.
• Aston Martin DB5 (1963-1965): Forever immortalized as James Bond's car of choice, the Aston Martin DB5 is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. This grand tourer featured a stunning design, luxurious interior, and a powerful six-cylinder engine. Its appearance in the James Bond films elevated its status and solidified its position as an automotive legend.
• Lotus Elan (1962-1973): The Lotus Elan brought a touch of nimbleness and precision to the British sports car scene. Known for its lightweight construction and exceptional handling, it showcased Lotus' engineering prowess. The Elan's remarkable agility made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts, and its influence can still be felt in modern sports cars.
• MG MGB (1962-1980): The MG MGB holds the distinction of being the best-selling British sports car of all time, capturing the hearts of countless enthusiasts. Combining affordability, accessibility, and classic British charm, the MGB was the quintessential sports car for the masses. Its timeless design and spirited performance made it an enduring symbol of British motoring.

Triumph Spitfire

Bentley Speed Six

Morgan Plus 8

AC Cobra

• Triumph Spitfire (1962-1980): The Triumph Spitfire brought a dose of classic British roadster fun to the sports car market. With its compact size, sleek lines, and affordable price, it became a popular choice for those seeking an open-top driving experience. The Spitfire's spirited performance and lively handling ensured it left a lasting impression.
• Bentley Speed Six (1928-1930): While often associated with luxury and grand touring, Bentley proved its sporting credentials with the Speed Six. This powerful and imposing sports car dominated the motorsport scene in the late 1920s, winning multiple endurance races. The Speed Six showcased British engineering excellence and set new standards for performance and endurance.
• Morgan Plus 8 (1968-2004): The Morgan Plus 8 blended old-world charm with modern performance. With its traditional design, handcrafted construction, and powerful V8 engine, it stood out from the crowd. The Plus 8's unique character and exhilarating driving experience endeared it to enthusiasts for over three decades.
• AC Cobra (1962-1967): Born out of a collaboration between AC Cars and Carroll Shelby, the AC Cobra embodied pure American power in a British package. Its lightweight body, combined with a monstrous V8 engine, resulted in blistering performance. The Cobra's fearsome reputation and distinctive design made it an icon on both road and track.

Austin Healey 3000

TVR Griffith

• Austin-Healey 3000 (1959-1967): The Austin-Healey 3000 blended classic British styling with a robust inline-six engine. This two-seater sports car offered an exhilarating driving experience, whether on winding country roads or the race track. Its timeless design and sporting pedigree ensured it remained a favorite among enthusiasts.
• TVR Griffith (1991-2002): The TVR Griffith was a modern interpretation of the classic British sports car. With its bold design, powerful engine options, and rear-wheel drive setup, it became synonymous with raw, unfiltered driving pleasure. The Griffith embodied TVR's philosophy of creating exhilarating and unconventional sports cars.

​Conclusion:
The best British sports cars of the 20th century exemplify the essence of automotive excellence. From the iconic Jaguar E-Type to the charismatic Aston Martin DB5, each car on this list contributed to the rich tapestry of British motoring heritage. With their timeless designs, exhilarating performance, and indomitable spirit, these sports cars left an indelible mark on the automotive world. Their enduring legacy continues to inspire and captivate enthusiasts to this day, solidifying their place in history as true automotive icons.