I would argue that the classic definition of a sports car is changing. It wasn't until 2002 when the WRX hit the US market that the concept of a light, fast, four-door sports sedan really became mainstream. The WRX was really the beginning of the sport compact market, and I would call it, and the cars that followed it - Evo, STi, Civic SI, Mini Cooper S, Mazdaspeed3, etc - sports cars. If your definition of a sports car means it has to be two doors, low slung, and have a big engine, then a Mustang with its live axle is a sports car. But a Mustang certainly doesn't poses the road prowess or fun to drive factor of any the cars mentioned above. And it is at a disadvantage to at least 3 of the above cars on a track. So if a "sports car" like the Mustang is heavier, less tossable, and slower than the "non-sports cars" then I think the definition needs updating.
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