Exploring The Best GT Cars For The Ultimate Road Trip

GT (Grand Tourer) cars have always had a special appeal for driving enthusiasts. Manufacturers meticulously engineer these vehicles to offer a harmonious blend of speed, power, and comfort, enabling drivers to conquer long journeys while experiencing exhilarating performance effortlessly. GT cars traditionally have a front-engine and rear-wheel-drive with two doors and a 2+2 seating layout. However, their categorization has become increasingly ambiguous in recent times, as certain automakers have introduced models marketed as GT cars that deviate from the traditional characteristics associated with this genre. Rather than dwelling on this perplexity, we proudly present our carefully curated selection of the top 5 GT cars of 2023.

Top 5 Grand Touring Cars Deserving Your Attention

1. Ferrari Roma

This coupe with a 2+2 configuration features a high-performance V8 motor and showcases a refined aesthetic that radiates gracefulness. Its outstanding capabilities provide an electrifying journey on curvy routes, effortlessly traversing extended stretches of highways.

The Roma boasts an impressive powertrain, featuring Ferrari’s 3.9-liter V8 engine with twin turbocharging. It delivers an abundant 560 pound-feet of torque, available between 3000 and 5750 revolutions per minute while achieving a maximum of 611 brake horsepower from 5750 to the redline at 7500 rpm. Complementing this is Ferrari’s advanced electronic differential and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission situated at the rear axle. Ferrari says the Roma can go from 0 to 62 miles per hour in a mere 3.4 seconds, making it one of the fastest GT cars on this list. Moreover, it accomplishes the 0-124 miles per hour sprint in an impressive 9.3 seconds.

In a comparison between the Roma and its main competitors hailing from the United Kingdom and Japan, the Roma effortlessly outshone renowned brands such as Bentley, Aston Martin, and Lexus. Despite the undeniable brilliance of these three competitors, the Roma exudes an unparalleled level of elegance that we can only attribute to its front-engine design. Undoubtedly, the Roma proves itself to be an exceptional grand tourer.

2. Lexus LC 500

The LC stands out among the modern GT cars by embracing a traditional approach, setting it apart as a distinctive offering from the esteemed automaker Lexus. The LC notably shares manufacturing facilities with the LF-A, one of the best supercars renowned for its exceptional performance.

This coincidence ensures that the LC benefits from unparalleled craftsmanship, surpassing that of its Japanese counterparts currently available in the market.

Lexus extensively researched the rich heritage of the Grand Tourer and skillfully incorporated those insights into the LC, a vehicle whose name might lack a touch of romance but conveys its essence as a ‘Luxury Coupe. Perhaps, they could have even opted for the name Lexus GT.

Featuring an elongated bonnet capable of concealing a powerful V8 engine, a two-door design, rear-wheel drive, and seating for four individuals, this vehicle appears to be an ideal choice for luxurious journeys along the Riviera, at least when considering its specifications.

However, it’s worth noting that the Lexus LC is not particularly compact, measuring nearly 188 inches (4,770 mm) in length. Regrettably, this generous length does not directly translate into spacious cabin accommodations or a sizable storage area for luggage.

The V8 variant employs a 5.0-liter, naturally aspirated powerplant, producing an enticing sound, making it easy to overlook any thoughts about the potential fuel efficiency benefits that could come with a hybrid option.

Generating an impressive 471 hp (477 PS) and channeling power to the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic transmission, one of the best luxury cars on this list will not only keep up with most sports cars on the Autobahn but will also provide a delightful auditory experience.

3. Maserati Gran Turismo Modena

In spite of its striking resemblance to the previous model, the 2024 Maserati Gran Turismo boasts a complete overhaul featuring the innovative Giorgio Sport platform. This cutting-edge platform takes inspiration from the renowned Alfa Romeo Giulia, marking a fresh beginning for the Gran Turismo.

As per the traditional GT formula, which Maserati played a significant role in developing during the 1950s, together with Alfa Romeo, the Gran Turismo represents a grand 2+2 coupe with a front-mounted engine, delivering impressive performance.

However, the previous model’s V8 engine has been replaced. Maserati has instead incorporated their advanced Nettuno twin-turbocharged V6 beneath the expansive bonnet, coupled exclusively with an 8-speed automatic gearbox sourced from ZF while distributing power to all four wheels.

The Gran Turismo Folgore, which relies solely on public charging infrastructure, falls short of being a true grand tourer. As a result, the V6-powered Modena and Trofeo are the only two versions that genuinely embody the essence of the GT name.

Although the Gran Turismo Trofeo boasts superior speed, it may prove to be excessively intense for the typical GT enthusiast. Therefore, I recommend opting for the entry-level Modena, which stands out as the top choice among the available options.

The Nettuno V6 boasts a robust power output of 484 horsepower (491 metric horsepower) and a formidable torque of 443 pound-feet (600 Newton meters). The Modena accelerates from 0 to 62 miles per hour (100 kilometers per hour) in a mere 3.9 seconds and reaches an impressive top speed of 188 miles per hour (302 kilometers per hour). These remarkable figures position it as the third fastest vehicle in its category.

Additionally, rather than penalizing two individuals in the confined back seats, you can employ that area to accommodate additional baggage since the trunk, measuring 11 cubic feet (310 liters), is not particularly spacious.

4. Ferrari GTC4Lusso

A remarkable addition to the automotive landscape, the GTC4Lusso offers an expansive body design. Much like its predecessor (the FF), it challenges the traditional beliefs cherished by ardent Ferrari enthusiasts. The reason behind their skepticism? It boasts a feature that goes against the grain of most supercars: a rear hatch.

Indeed, it possesses a hatchback configuration and is the swiftest, most elegant, and most luxuriously appointed hatchback that money can procure. However, the fact that its rear window ascends along with the rest of the trunk should not undermine its potential as a truly impeccable Grand Tourer.

In contrast to the Roma, the GTC4Lusso strikes a perfect balance with its thoughtful integration of technology while preserving the essence of analog, where it truly matters. Moreover, it amplifies the available space, boasting 28.24 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This space considerably surpasses the trunk capacity of most full-size sedans, such as the Mercedes S-Class and Audi A8, effectively doubling their storage capabilities.

Include a 680-horsepower, 6.3-liter V-12 engine combined with all-wheel drive, and you get an incredibly versatile and distinct GT/Supercar available today. Regrettably, the GTC4Lusso is not currently being manufactured, but it remains sufficiently recent to offer similar technology, mileage, and pricing as a fresh Ferrari model.

5. Alpina B3

An Alpina B3 could appear to some as merely a BMW 3 Series. Yet, for some individuals, that is precisely the allure of owning an Alpina. It represents a personal indulgence meant for the satisfaction of the owner and the driver. It is a vehicle that exudes modesty, unlike BMW’s own interpretation of a high-performance 3 Series, namely, the BMW M3.

Alpina modifies a BMW M340i, available in both saloon and Touring estate versions. They integrate a distinct, Alpina-exclusive version of the M3’s S58 3.0-liter straight-six turbo engine, along with their custom suspension system. It involves incorporating a broader track, several exclusive components, unique geometry settings, and specially designed Eibach springs. While the dampers and steering retain the standard M340i specifications, Alpina applies its own tailored adjustments.

The outcome is a gentle and slightly delayed response product, distinguishing itself superior to an M3 in its GT features. When considering its overall performance, the B3 Touring unquestionably stands as one of the finest automobiles ever manufactured. No matter the day, weather conditions, or inquiry, it consistently delivers an enthusiastic and compelling solution.

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