2013 Subaru BRZ vs. Its Competition

Bengt Halvorson Senior Editor

The 2013 Scion FR-S is nearly identical to the BRZ, and it starts about $1,300 lower in its base form compared to the Subaru, although the BRZ includes more standard equipment.

The two models have subtle tuning differences, so you might as well take them both for a drive.

In its available hardtop version, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is otherwise the most focused small sports car on the market—although the BRZ would probably be our preference for frequent commuting as the Miata is quite tight inside.

Going up the scale of price and complexity, the Nissan 370Z is very powerful and a bit heavier, but it's not as perfectly balanced as the BRZ; it's also even noisier inside.

The redesigned 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is another alternative—especially for those who want more of a comfortable touring coupe that can also be taken to the track on the weekends.

Finally, for those who are price-limited and want a sporty-looking two-door, the Ford Mustang is kind of the polar opposite of the BRZ, but in V-6 form it's surprisingly nimble and affordable.