Cars That Can Really “Turn You On”

Even if you aren’t a car freak or geek, like yours truly, there are some wheels that just get your motor running. There’s just something about them. Maybe it’s the attention to detail around the body or the rumbling of the motor, perhaps the sensory overload on the inside.

While there are many cars that can cause a guy or gal to turn their heads, sports cars seem to be the universal sex machine of the automotive world. Two recent test examples include the 2015 BMW M4 and the 2015 Jaguar F-Type R.

The 2015 BMW M4 drips testosterone. It has a bulge (in the hood), ground effects, a carbon fiber roof, and the optional 19” black rims. Add the Austin Yellow Metallic paint and just looking at this car not only gets your attention, but changes your heart rate. The M4, known to fans as the M3 Coupe in 2014, is 425-hp of pure performance muscle.

New for 2015 is the 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder Twin Power Turbo engine, a change from the V8 kit found in the previous generation M3 coupe. Add the adaptive suspension, double-clutch automatic transmission, and M-tuned exhaust and what you have is a rocket that takes you from 0 to 60 in 3.9 seconds while still getting a combined fuel rating from the EPA of 19-mpg. Moreover, the g-force on acceleration is enough to make you giggle or scream. The experience produces an adrenaline high; it comes from a vehicle that uses all of the safety systems to keep the rear tires in contact with the road. And yes, you realize control is a very thin perception with something this powerful.

Then there is the interior, right on point for just over $86K. Silverstone leather, navigation, heads-up display, heated memory seats, and attention to detail only money can afford. Watch the gearshift though: It almost takes a rocket scientist to get it out of gear and back into park. BMW has outdone themselves with the M4 — the only issue is the day-to-day drivability. I don’t guess many looking for this kind of hot ride are going to worry about that too much.

Then there’s the 2015 Jaguar F-Type R. The Jaguar is beauty and sex appeal from a different angle. If the M4 is like the wild fighter pilot, the F-Type R is the sensual and charismatic double agent. The F-Type is not new for 2015, but it’s a newer design and body to the Jaguar family. The F-Type embodies the essence of the ’60s E-Type and is a true return to the spirit of those renowned cars.

If the soft curves and aggressive stance of the exterior don’t get your brows up, under the hood rumbles a 550-hp supercharged V8 engine. With 0 to 60 in the three-second range and an 18-mpg combined rating, this cat doesn’t play around. Behind the wheel is a smooth and sensual experience. You can find an edgier side by turning on the sports exhaust and letting the variable quad exhaust roar to life.

Most remarkable, besides the two-tone Ivory and Jet interior, is the attention to detail inside and out … the type of attention that makes you not question the $102K+ price tag. With a more comfortable ride than the M4 and an easier day-to-day experience, the F-Type R can bring this experience purring into your garage.

Which do you choose? As they say, “Different strokes for different folks.”