title:Britain’s Best Driver’s Car 2023: Positions 11-6 Revealed
content:Britain’s Best Driver’s Car 2023: Mid-Pack Finishers (11-6)
If you’re a sports car fan, you’ve likely wondered which cars made Autocar’s 2023 list—and why some fell short of the top 5. This 35th annual contest tests 11 of the year’s best on road and track, with five judges scoring each. Even the 11th-place car is exceptional, so let’s break down the mid-pack results.
After analyzing Autocar’s video, I’ve highlighted each car’s strengths, flaws, and why it landed where it did.
Audi RS7 (11th Place)
The RS7 is the largest, heaviest car here—but far from slow. Its powerful engine revs to 6750 RPM, accelerates quickly, and balances well enough to slide mid-corner. But its size and road-focused design mean it’s not a natural track car. Judges called it a "big lovable barge"—great for comfort, but outmatched by lighter rivals.
Honda Civic Type R (10th Place)
The Civic Type R is a standout hot hatch. It’s predictable, trustworthy, and has terrific seats that keep you connected to the car. In wet conditions, it struggles to put power down in second gear but handles linearly—no drama, no theatrics. It’s a solid drive, but the competitive field pushed it to 10th.
BMW M2 (9th Place)
The M2’s rear-wheel drive and limited-slip differential seem ideal for wet conditions. But it has a critical flaw: optional carbon fiber seats with a "penis tray" that interfere with the clutch pedal in right-hand drive manuals. Judges found it balanced but a bit heavy and bulky—less engaging than previous M2 models.
Alpine A110R (8th Place)
The A110R is a lighter, focused version of the beloved A110. It has delicious, precise steering—possibly the best power-assisted steering in any road car now. However, its Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires lack grip in wet conditions. Even so, its lightness and immediacy made it a joy to drive, landing it 8th.
BMW M3 CS (7th Place)
The M3 CS is a faster, focused M3. It’s four-wheel drive but can switch to rear-wheel drive for playfulness. Judges praised its great steering feel and balanced handling, though it’s harder to find its sweet spot in wet conditions. It’s rewarding if you adopt the right style, but didn’t make the top 6.
Prodrive P25 (6th Place)
Often called a Subaru 22B resto mod, the P25 is much more: a raw, bespoke machine with a digital electronic clutch and unassisted brakes. It’s like a WRC car for the road—loud, angry, and only happy when pushed hard. Not practical for daily use, but its performance landed it 6th.
content:Key Takeaways From The Mid-Pack
Three themes emerge from the mid-pack:
- Wet weather impact: Tires like the Alpine’s Cup 2s struggled, while all-wheel-drive cars (M3 CS) had an edge.
- Track vs road focus: Road-focused cars (RS7) couldn’t compete with track-tuned rivals.
- Design flaws: The M2’s seat issue shows small details can hurt performance.
content:What’s Next For The Top 5?
The top 5 includes the Aerial Atom 4R, two Porsche 911s (Dakar and GT3 RS), Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato, and Peugeot 205 GTI Tolman Resto mod. Which will take the crown? Stay tuned for part 2.
content:Toolbox & Action Guide
Immediately Actionable Checklist
- Check tire suitability for your driving conditions (avoid Cup 2s in wet weather).
- Test seat ergonomics for manual cars (especially right-hand drive models).
- Prioritize daily usability if you don’t track your car often.
- Research wet-weather handling before buying a sports car.
Advanced Resource Recommendations
- Autocar Magazine: Get full contest results and in-depth reviews (magazinshop.com).
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 Reviews: Understand dry vs wet performance.
content:Conclusion & Engagement
Even mid-pack cars in this contest are among 2023’s best. The P25’s raw power, Alpine’s steering, and Civic’s trustworthiness stand out.
Which of these mid-pack cars would you choose for daily driving? Share your pick in the comments!