Who says you need a six-figure supercar to have fun behind the wheel? There are plenty of cars out there that offer surprising driving enjoyment without requiring you to auction off a kidney. Most of these vehicles can be found for a bargain on the used market, making them perfect for thrill-seekers on a budget. Here are 21 cars that prove you don’t need to break the bank for driving fun.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Writing about fun, affordable cars without mentioning the Miata is practically illegal. Light, nimble, and rear-wheel drive, this little roadster is the go-to answer for budget-friendly fun. The older NA and NB models have that classic sports car feel, while the NC and ND offer modern refinements without losing the playful spirit. The Miata’s handling is razor-sharp and comes with a near-perfect manual gearbox. Sure, it won’t outrun a Mustang in a straight line, but throw it into a corner, and you’ll be grinning like a kid in a candy store.
Ford Fiesta ST
The Ford Fiesta ST packs a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine. This pint-sized powerhouse churns out 197 hp and 214 lb.-ft of torque, enough to make hot hatches twice its price nervous. And, weighing just around 2,700 lbs., it rockets from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.5 seconds. Plus, the exhaust pops and crackles like a pint-sized rally car, making it sound way faster than it actually is.
Volkswagen GTI (Mk5, Mk6, Mk7)
The GTI has been setting the standard for hot hatches for decades and for a good reason. It blends everyday practicality with just the right amount of power and agility. A playful chassis, precise steering, and available dual-clutch transmission (DSG) made all three generations a joy to drive. Also, Car and Driver consistently praised the GTI for its “all-day usability and grin-inducing dynamics.” And, with tartan seats, a practical hatchback layout, and a legendary reputation, the GTI remains the benchmark for hot hatches.
Honda Civic Si (Any Generation)
Reliable, affordable, and packing a high-revving engine, the Civic Si is a budget enthusiast’s dream. Introduced in 1984, the Si (Sport Injected) has always prioritized a high-revving engine, sharp handling, and lightweight chassis. Also, from the rev-happy B16A in the 1999–2000 Si (EK9) to the K20Z3 in the 2006–2011 (FG2/FA5) and the turbocharged L15B7 in the latest models, the Si consistently delivers an engaging driving experience.
Subaru WRX (GD, GR, VA)
All-wheel-drive turbo fun on a budget? Yes, please. The GD’s chassis (aka “Blobeye,” “Bugeye,” and “Hawkeye”) featured Subaru’s iconic EJ20/EJ25 turbo flat-four, symmetrical AWD, and a raw, mechanical feel that made it a tuner favorite. The GR (hatchback) and GV (sedan) models introduced a stiffer chassis and improved handling but gained weight. Meanwhile, the VA generation modernized the WRX with a new FA20DIT 2.0L turbo engine, offering improved torque and fuel efficiency, though some lamented the loss of the EJ’s raw character.
Mazda3 (Mazdaspeed3 or Naturally Aspirated)
The Mazda3, whether in its naturally aspirated form or as the fire-breathing Mazdaspeed3, has long been a darling of driving enthusiasts. This turbocharged, front-wheel-drive hot hatch is an absolute torque monster. The latest Kodo design language gives it a premium look, with sculpted curves and an upscale interior rivaling luxury brands. Plus, even the non-turbo Mazda3 models deliver an engaging drive thanks to Mazda’s knack for tuning chassis dynamics.
MINI Cooper S (R53, R56, F56)
Small, feisty, and British (sort of), the MINI Cooper S is a blast to drive. The first-gen BMW-era Cooper S packed a 1.6L supercharged inline-4 (163-168 hp), a 6-speed manual, and a mechanical LSD in later models, making it a riot on twisty roads. Also, the supercharger whine and low-slung stance gave it a proper hot hatch feel. Further, the 2014+ model got a 2.0L turbo (189 hp), improved suspension, and more tech. And, while heavier, it’s faster and more refined, preserving the trademark MINI playfulness.
Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ / Scion FR-S
Rear-wheel drive, a lightweight chassis, and a low center of gravity—what’s not to love? Weighing around 2,800 lbs., these cars feature a low center of gravity thanks to Subaru’s 2.0L flat-four “Boxer” engine, producing 200 hp (2012–2020) and 228 hp (2022–present). A 50:50 weight distribution and Torsen limited-slip differential enhance handling, while an optional six-speed manual transmission ensures driver engagement. Also, slap on some grippy tires, and you have an affordable track toy that will teach you everything about car control.
Honda Fit (Manual)
This little hatchback is way more fun than it has any right to be. Its “tall-boy” design maximizes space, offering a class-leading 52.7 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats folded, thanks to the Magic Seat system. The Fit’s aerodynamic profile, large greenhouse, and aggressive character lines give it a modern yet functional aesthetic. And, while not a hot hatch, the manual version delivers a connected, engaging drive with a light clutch and short throws, making it a hidden gem for enthusiasts who crave fun on a budget.
Nissan 350Z / 370Z
A naturally aspirated V6, rear-wheel drive, and sharp handling make the Nissan Z cars a budget enthusiast’s dream. With a VQ-series V6 engine (3.5L in the 350Z, 3.7L in the 370Z), both models offer a thrilling driving experience with up to 332 hp (370Z) and 287–306 hp (350Z). Also, the six-speed manual transmission (with optional auto) and well-balanced FR layout make them agile, fun canyon carvers. Plus, the 370Z introduced rev-matching tech, further enhancing the driving experience. The 350Z is now a steal on the used market, while the 370Z offers a slightly newer take on the same formula.
Ford Mustang V6 (S197, S550)
Who says muscle cars can’t be budget-friendly? The V6 Mustangs of recent years offer plenty of power while still being affordable. The S197’s retro-futuristic design, inspired by the 1960s Mustang, featured a long hood, short deck, and aggressive grille. The S550 (2015-2017) took things further with independent rear suspension and improved handling. Its 3.7L V6 (300 hp, 280 lb.-ft) was torquey but overshadowed by the EcoBoost. And, though not the fastest, both models provided affordable, stylish, and fun Mustang experiences.
Chevrolet Camaro V6 (5th & 6th Gen)
The Chevrolet Camaro V6 (5th & 6th Gen) is the muscle car for folks who want speed without turning every gas station visit into a financial crisis. For the 6th Gen, Chevy put the Camaro on a diet, dropping 200+ lbs. It even added cylinder deactivation, meaning it sips fuel like a responsible adult. Both gens offer manual transmissions, which is great if you enjoy pretending you’re Vin Diesel. Plus, they also handle surprisingly well for something that looks like a Hot Wheels toy come to life.
Fiat 500 Abarth
Loud, brash, and utterly charming, the Fiat 500 Abarth is a riot. Under its stubby little hood sits a turbocharged 1.4L engine, churning up to 180 horsepower (depending on the trim). That’s like strapping a jetpack to a hamster. With a 0-60 mph time of around 6.5 seconds, it’s got enough zip to make grocery runs feel like qualifying laps. Plus, Abarth, Fiat’s in-house performance wizards, also gave it a sport-tuned suspension, bigger brakes, and a sweet exhaust note.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Think of the Jetta GLI as the GTI’s less-popular but equally fun sibling. It comes with a 6-speed manual (for the purists) or a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch (for the traffic warriors), sending power to the front wheels. Its VAQ limited-slip differential grips corners like a caffeinated gecko and the adaptive dampers let you switch between “commuter comfort” and “let’s scare the passengers.” Inside, you get plaid seats (GTI throwback!), a digital cockpit, and a fat flat-bottomed steering wheel—all adding to the sporty vibe.
Hyundai Veloster Turbo
Quirky styling, a turbocharged engine, and a three-door design make the Veloster Turbo a unique and fun budget option. Handling? Sharp. The sport-tuned suspension and low curb weight (around 2,900 lbs.) make it feel nimble, like a caffeinated squirrel. The steering is precise, though some enthusiasts wish for more feedback. And that unique asymmetrical door setup? It is practical yet funky—like a mullet in car form. Plus, it punches above its weight in driving enjoyment.
Acura RSX Type-S
The Acura RSX Type-S (2002–2006) is like a caffeinated squirrel—light, agile, and always ready to rev. Packing a 2.0L K20A2 engine with 200HP (later 210HP), it loves to scream up to an 8,000 RPM redline, thanks to Honda’s legendary VTEC. It also has a slick 6-speed manual, razor-sharp handling, and a chassis that feels like a go-kart in the best way. Downsides? The ride is firm, road noise is loud, and thieves love it almost as much as you will. But for a cheap, high-revving, corner-carving blast? The RSX Type-S is a budget legend.
Lexus IS300 (Manual, If You Can Find One)
The Lexus IS300 (manual—if you can find one, you lucky devil) is a rare gem in fun-to-drive sedans. Powered by Toyota’s legendary 2JZ-GE inline-six (yes, the non-turbo Supra engine), it delivers 215 hp and 218 lb.-ft of torque, paired with a slick-shifting 5-speed manual—assuming you didn’t settle for the more common automatic. Plus, rear-wheel drive and a near-perfect weight balance make it a drift-happy, corner-carving machine with just enough hooligan potential.
BMW E46 3-Series
If you want a European sports sedan on a budget, the E46 3-Series is your best bet. With a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution, rear-wheel drive, and razor-sharp steering, it’s as eager to carve corners as a squirrel. Engines range from the M54 inline-six (silky smooth, loves revs) to the S54 in the M3, a 333-hp masterpiece that sounds like Beethoven composed. Also, manuals are joyfully mechanical, while automatics… exist. Further, the chassis is so good that even base models feel sporty, and the M Sport package tightens things up even more.
Saab 9-3 Turbo X
A Saab? Yes, really. The 9-3 Turbo X is a quirky, all-wheel-drive sleeper with a turbocharged V6 that surprises many. The car’s sport-tuned suspension and eLSD (electronic limited-slip differential) give it superb cornering grip and the throaty V6 growl. Also, with just 2,000 units made, it’s rarer than a Volvo driver exceeding the speed limit. And though Saab may be gone, the Turbo X lives on as a quirky, turbocharged underdog that’s still ridiculously fun to drive.
Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart
A budget Evo alternative, the Lancer Ralliart offers AWD turbocharged fun with a more accessible price tag. It also comes with a TC-SST dual-clutch transmission, which means lightning-fast shifts without the hassle of a clutch pedal (or an excuse for bad rev-matching). Plus, it’s practical! Four doors, a decent trunk, and a price tag that won’t require selling a kidney. And, while the interior is primarily plastic, who cares when you’re having this much fun?
Dodge Neon SRT-4
The Dodge Neon SRT-4 is like a regular Neon that hit the gym, chugged an energy drink, and decided to embarrass sports cars twice its price. Built from 2003 to 2005, it packed a turbocharged 2.4L inline-four pushing 230 hp (or 215 hp in 2003) to the front wheels—enough to rocket from 0-60 mph in about 5.3 seconds. That’s quicker than some BMWs and Mustangs of its time. It also came with a 5-speed manual, a rowdy exhaust that sounded like an overcaffeinated wasp, and zero traction control—because Dodge wanted you to earn your driving skills.
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