Pontiac's two-seat Solstice is proof that American manufacturers really can produce fun, affordable sports cars. It owes its smooth curves and robust steel-tube chassis to hydroforming, an innovative process that uses water pressure to inexpensively and precisely fabricate structural components and complex body panels with exceptional strength. Its spry 177hp engine pushes the Solstice to a top speed of 123 mph and a 0-60 time of 7.2 seconds, while its near-50/50 weight distribution and four-wheel control-arm independent suspension provide excellent road handling. $20,000