Gran Turismo examples represent some of the most celebrated automobiles ever built. These cars blend high performance with long-distance comfort, creating a unique category that stands apart from pure sports cars. The term “Gran Turismo” (or Grand Touring) comes from Italian and describes vehicles designed to cover great distances at high speeds while keeping occupants comfortable. From classic Ferrari coupes to modern Bentley Continental GTs, gran turismo cars have shaped automotive history for decades. This guide explores the best gran turismo examples across eras, explains what qualifies a car for this prestigious category, and highlights the key differences between GT cars and traditional sports cars.
Key Takeaways
- Gran turismo examples combine high performance, long-distance comfort, and elegant styling—setting them apart from pure sports cars.
- Classic gran turismo cars like the Ferrari 250 GTO, Aston Martin DB5, and Jaguar E-Type defined the GT category and remain highly collectible today.
- Modern gran turismo examples such as the Bentley Continental GT, Porsche 911 GT3 Touring, and Ferrari Roma blend advanced technology with traditional GT values.
- GT cars prioritize torque delivery and smooth power over peak horsepower, making highway cruising effortless and fatigue-free.
- The 2+2 seating layout, premium interiors, and compliant suspension systems are hallmarks that distinguish gran turismo cars from lightweight sports cars.
- Understanding the differences between gran turismo and sports cars helps buyers choose the right vehicle for their driving needs.
What Makes a Car a Gran Turismo
A gran turismo car must meet specific criteria to earn the GT designation. These vehicles combine performance, comfort, and practicality in ways that pure sports cars simply don’t.
Powerful Engine Configuration
Gran turismo examples typically feature large-displacement engines that produce smooth, sustained power. Most GT cars use V8, V12, or turbocharged six-cylinder engines. The emphasis falls on torque delivery rather than peak horsepower. This design philosophy allows drivers to cruise effortlessly at highway speeds without constantly shifting gears.
Comfortable Interior Design
Unlike stripped-down sports cars, gran turismo vehicles prioritize cabin comfort. Expect premium leather seats, advanced climate control systems, and refined sound insulation. Many GT cars feature a 2+2 seating layout, two front seats with two smaller rear seats for occasional passengers or extra luggage space.
Long-Distance Capability
The original gran turismo concept centered on crossing European countries quickly and comfortably. Modern gran turismo examples maintain this focus. Large fuel tanks, compliant suspension systems, and aerodynamic body designs enable extended highway driving without fatigue.
Elegant Styling
Gran turismo cars project sophistication rather than aggression. Their designs favor flowing lines, fastback rooflines, and proportions that suggest speed without shouting about it. A true GT car looks equally appropriate at a five-star hotel or a racetrack.
Classic Gran Turismo Examples
Several historic models defined what gran turismo means today. These classic gran turismo examples set standards that manufacturers still follow.
Ferrari 250 GTO (1962-1964)
The Ferrari 250 GTO remains the most valuable gran turismo example ever produced. Ferrari built only 36 units, each featuring a 3.0-liter V12 engine producing 300 horsepower. The 250 GTO dominated GT racing while offering genuine road usability. Today, these cars sell for over $70 million at auction.
Aston Martin DB5 (1963-1965)
James Bond made the DB5 famous, but enthusiasts already knew this was an exceptional gran turismo car. The DB5 packed a 4.0-liter inline-six engine and featured a comfortable cabin trimmed in Connolly leather. Aston Martin built approximately 1,023 DB5 coupes during production.
Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing (1954-1957)
The 300 SL introduced fuel injection technology to production cars while delivering true gran turismo capability. Its distinctive gullwing doors and 215-horsepower engine made it the fastest production car of its era. The 300 SL could reach 161 mph, remarkable for any car in the 1950s.
Jaguar E-Type (1961-1975)
Enzo Ferrari called the E-Type “the most beautiful car ever made.” Beyond its stunning looks, the E-Type delivered genuine gran turismo performance. The Series 1 models featured a 3.8-liter or 4.2-liter inline-six engine and could exceed 150 mph. Jaguar sold the E-Type at a fraction of its competitors’ prices, democratizing gran turismo ownership.
Modern Gran Turismo Cars Worth Knowing
Contemporary manufacturers continue building exceptional gran turismo examples. These modern GT cars incorporate advanced technology while honoring traditional GT values.
Bentley Continental GT
The Continental GT defines modern gran turismo luxury. Its 6.0-liter W12 engine produces 650 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. Inside, Bentley offers handcrafted wood veneers, diamond-quilted leather, and a rotating display that can show navigation or remain blank for a cleaner look. The Continental GT cruises at triple-digit speeds with remarkable composure.
Porsche 911 GT3 Touring
Porsche’s GT3 Touring removes the large rear wing from the standard GT3, creating a subtler gran turismo appearance. The naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six produces 502 horsepower and revs to 9,000 rpm. Unlike automatic-only competitors, the GT3 Touring offers a six-speed manual transmission option.
Aston Martin DB12
Aston Martin calls the DB12 “the world’s first super tourer.” This gran turismo example features a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 producing 671 horsepower. The DB12 accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds while maintaining the refined character expected from Aston Martin.
Ferrari Roma
Ferrari positioned the Roma as a modern interpretation of classic gran turismo design. Its 3.9-liter twin-turbo V8 delivers 612 horsepower through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Roma’s clean lines reference Ferrari GT cars from the 1960s while incorporating contemporary technology throughout.
Gran Turismo vs Sports Cars: Key Differences
People often confuse gran turismo examples with sports cars. While both categories emphasize performance, they serve different purposes.
Primary Purpose
Gran turismo cars excel at covering long distances quickly and comfortably. Sports cars prioritize handling dynamics and driver engagement over comfort. A Porsche 911 Turbo S works as a gran turismo car, while a Porsche Cayman GT4 RS functions as a pure sports car.
Weight and Size
Gran turismo examples typically weigh more than sports cars. The additional weight comes from sound insulation, luxury features, and larger bodies. A Bentley Continental GT weighs approximately 4,800 pounds. A Lotus Emira sports car weighs around 3,200 pounds.
Suspension Setup
Sports cars use firm suspension tuning that transmits road imperfections to the cabin. Gran turismo cars employ softer suspension settings that absorb bumps and maintain comfort during extended drives. Many modern GT cars offer adjustable suspension systems that can firm up for spirited driving.
Seating Configuration
Most sports cars seat only two people. Gran turismo examples often include rear seats, even if they’re small. This 2+2 layout reflects the GT philosophy of practical performance.
Engine Character
Sports car engines typically produce power at high RPM ranges. Gran turismo engines deliver strong torque from low RPM, enabling effortless acceleration without revving the engine constantly. This characteristic makes highway cruising more relaxed in GT cars.
