When you think of sports cars, you imagine high-end luxury vehicles with price tags that could buy a house. But here’s some good news: You don’t have to be rich to enjoy the excitement of a sports car. There are plenty of affordable options out there that offer a thrilling ride without requiring a second mortgage. Here are 9 sports cars that deliver serious fun without breaking the bank.
Mazda MX 5 Miata
The Mazda MX 5 Miata has been a favorite among car enthusiasts for over three decades, and it’s easy to see why. This little roadster is all about the joy of driving. It’s lightweight and elegant and offers a perfectly balanced chassis that makes every twist and turn of the road a pleasure. The Miata is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower. While that might not sound like a lot in sports cars, the Miata’s low weight means it doesn’t need much power to feel fast. Plus, its simple back-to-basics driving approach means nothing between you and the road. The Miata is affordable, starting at a price point that won’t scare off the average buyer.
Ford Mustang EcoBoost
The Ford Mustang is an icon of American automobile culture known for its powerful V8 engines and bold styling. But you don’t need to spring for the top-of-the-line model to taste what makes the Mustang special. The EcoBoost version’s turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine offers a more affordable entry point into Mustang ownership while still delivering plenty of excitement. With 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, the EcoBoost Mustang is no slouch in the performance department. It’s quick off the line and has plenty of power to keep you entertained on the open road. It has the same aggressive styling and driver-focused interior as its more expensive siblings.
Subaru BRZ/Toyota GR86
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 are twins jointly developed by Subaru and Toyota to offer a pure, unfiltered sports car experience. These cars are all about handling, balance, and driver engagement. They are lightweight, have rear-wheel drive, and are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine that produces 228 horsepower. The BRZ and GR86 stand out because of how connected they feel to the road. The steering is precise, the chassis is perfectly balanced, and the manual transmission is a joy. These cars aren’t about straight-line speed. They’re about enjoying every corner, every bend, and every bit of feedback the car gives you. And with starting prices that are very reasonable, these cars offer a lot of driving pleasure for the money.
Chevrolet Camaro V6
The Chevrolet Camaro is another classic American muscle car that’s available in a more budget-friendly version. The V6 model might not have the same raw power as the V8, but it still packs a punch with 335 horsepower and 284 lb-ft of torque. That’s more than enough to have some serious fun on the road. The Camaro V6 also benefits from the other lineup’s exact sharp handling and aggressive styling. It’s a car that feels good whether cruising on the highway or taking on some twisty back roads. Inside, it offers a comfortable and modern interior with all the tech and features you’d expect. If you want a piece of American performance without the premium price, the Camaro V6 is worth a look.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is the car that invented the hot hatch segment, and it continues to be one of the best all-around sports cars you can buy. The GTI combines practicality with performance in a way few other cars can match. It’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, making 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. What sets the GTI apart is how well it does everything. It’s quick and agile, with a playful character that makes every drive fun. But it’s also practical, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo, making it an excellent daily driver. The GTI has a high-quality interior with modern tech features, and it’s built to a standard that feels like it should cost a lot more than it does.
Nissan 370Z
The Nissan 370Z is one of the last old-school sports cars still on the market. It’s powered by a naturally aspirated 3.7 liter V6 engine, making 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. That power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual or seven-speed automatic transmission, giving the 370Z a traditional sports car feel that’s becoming increasingly rare. The 370Z is a car that’s all about the driving experience. It’s not overloaded with technology or luxury features. It’s focused on delivering pure, unfiltered driving enjoyment. The steering is sharp, the brakes are strong, and the engine loves to rev. The 370Z isn’t the newest or most advanced car on this list, but it offers a raw, engaging driving experience that’s hard to find at this price point.
Hyundai Veloster N
The Hyundai Veloster N is a hot hatch that’s been turning heads since it was introduced. It’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and it has multiple features that make it a serious contender in the hot hatch segment. What makes the Veloster N special is how much fun driving is. The engine is punchy, the suspension is tuned for performance, and the exhaust has a sporty growl that’s sure to put a smile on your face. The Veloster N also has a unique three-door layout that sets it apart from the crowd. It’s a car designed for driving enthusiasts but also practical enough to use daily.
Fiat 124 Spider
The Fiat 124 Spider has a stylish engine with 160 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. They make this lightweight roadster a joy to drive. The 124 Spider offers the exact sharp handling and open-air driving experience as the Miata but with a little more power and a slightly more refined ride. It’s a car that’s all about enjoying the journey with a focus on driver engagement and fun. And with a price tag comparable to the Miata, it’s an affordable way to get behind the wheel of a stylish, fun-to-drive roadster.
Toyota Supra 2.0
The Toyota Supra is legendary in sports cars, and the latest model continues that legacy. While the 3.0-liter inline six version of the Supra is the headline grabber, the more affordable 2.0-liter version is no slouch either. Its powerful turbocharged engine delivers impressive acceleration. The sleek, iconic design turns heads wherever it goes, and the spacious interior provides comfortable seating for both driver and passenger. Despite being priced lower than the 3.0-liter model, the Supra 2.0 retains the legendary Supra spirit, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a high-performance sports car without the exorbitant price tag.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
No car company wants to deliver a dud. However, even though companies try their best to deliver excellent cars, some cars turn out to be lemons, breaking down frequently. This creates problems for both the consumer and the manufacturer.
11 Cars that are Known for Breaking Down Regularly
