Are you looking to satisfy your need for speed without draining your wallet? Look no further than the world of affordable sports cars. These vehicles offer a delightful combination of performance, style, and exhilaration at a fraction of the cost of their high-end counterparts.
Whether you’re a car enthusiast on a budget or simply seeking an affordable entry into the world of sports cars, this article presents an exciting lineup of the best cheap sports cars on the market.
From their agile handling to their eye-catching designs, these budget-friendly options prove that driving excitement doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Get ready to ignite your passion for driving as we explore the top contenders of affordable sports cars.
1. Hyundai Elantra N (2023)
Price: $34,015
| Pros | Cons |
| Enhanced Performance Sporty Design | Increased Cost |
The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the Elantra N produces 276 hp and 289 lb-ft (39.9547 kg-m) of torque. This considerable power is sent to the front wheels through either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
Hyundai equips its front-wheel-drive vehicles with a robust suspension system and sophisticated powertrain technology to improve grip, performance, and handling. During aggressive rides, the Alcantara bucket seats keep occupants in place, and applying high power produces a terrific sound from the vehicle.
Nevertheless, the Elantra N functions just as admirably as the “regular” Elantra as a daily car. The backseat is more than suitable for adults or children in car seats, and the trunk is roomy.
Related: Most Reliable Sports Cars To Buy In 2023
2. Toyota GR86 (2022)
Price: $31,000$
| Pros | Cons |
| Low starting price Stylish interior | Limited room for rear-seat passengers |
The powerful, feature-rich, and highly secure Toyota GR86 coupe is available for a reasonable price. Starting at $28,000, the sports vehicle can be upgraded to the highest Premium specification, which adds heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, and automatic highlights for $3,000.
The GR86 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (96.56 km/h) in 6.6 seconds thanks to its 228 hp engine and has good turn-in manners. The IIHS awarded the GR86 a Top Safety Pick+ designation and gave it high scores for the security of its headlights. The GR86 has many standard safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot warning, and rear parking distance sensors.
The GR86 doesn’t compromise on premium amenities like heated front seats and Ultrasuede trim despite its affordable pricing. The back seats could not fit as comfortably as the front seats, which provide ample passenger room.
3. Nissan Z (2023)
Price: $49,990
| Pros | Cons |
| Race-car-like cockpit Quick acceleration, even for a sports car | Low-quality cabin material |
Starting just under $50,000, the Nissan Z, in the Performance trim, is the priciest of our picks. But the car is packed with features, including wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a 9-inch touch screen. The seats are power-adjustable, heated, and upholstered in leather and simulated suede.
The sports car’s 400 hp twin-turbo V6 engine propels it from 0 to 60 mph (96.56 km/h) in 4.5 seconds. The Z’s acceleration is impressive, falling just shy of the Camaro’s 4.2 seconds and the Challenger’s 4.3 seconds.
However, the Nissan Z’s cabin doesn’t feel as luxurious as rivals such as the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ because components made from hard plastic cheapen the look. Standard safety features include intelligent cruise control, blind spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert.
4. Dodge Challenger (2023)
Price: $39,480
| Pros | Cons |
| Choice of powerful engines Spacious cabin | Few standard safety features |
The muscular Dodge Challenger comes with an array of optional engines, ranging from moderately fun to pinned-to-your-seat powerful. The popular mid-tier R/T has a beefy 375-horsepower V8 engine that goes from 0 to 60 mph (96.56 km/h) in 4.2 seconds, which ties the car in our picks with the Camaro. Sadly, 2023 is this iconic muscle car’s last year of production.
The Challenger R/T stands out in the sports car segment for its spacious interior and decent cargo room. The interior design is not precisely stylish; performance is the priority for this car. But you can spice up the R/T’s cabin with heated front seats and steering wheel.
Nor is the Challenger rich in safety attributes. You’ll find a few standard driver assistance safety features compared to the Nissan Z. Adaptive speed control and blind spot, and rear cross-path detection are optional.
6. Subaru WRX (2018)
Price: $27,500
| Pros | Cons |
| Versatility Reliability | Noisy Cabin |
For a good reason, Subaru is among the automakers with the highest global growth. Subaru models have successfully reached the consumer market because they are dependable, competent, and relaxed. The 2018 Subaru WRX is one of its options, and it is most popular with budget-conscious aficionados.
Your pals will be envious if you arrive in one of these sports sedans. The WRX undoubtedly deserves its enthusiast accolades, including five seats, permanent all-wheel drive, a manual gearbox, and an aggressive appearance. The WRX produces 268 hp and 258 lb-ft (35.7006 kg-m) of torque from a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder.
The WRX is faster than most of the vehicles on our list, reaching 60 mph (96.56 km/h) in only 5.0 seconds, but its starting price of $26,995 makes it more accessible. The WRX excels at handling but has charming standard equipment like a steering wheel covered in leather, automatic temperature control, and a 6.2-inch infotainment system.
Related: Top 13 Sports Cars For Tall People | Fast & Comfort
7. BMW 230i (2022)
Price: $36,350
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent Performance Luxury and Quality | Limited Rear Seat Space |
The BMW 2 Series is the M vehicle manufacturer’s most affordable sports car. Both the coupe and four-door sedan body types are available for the 2 Series. The 230i model, priced at $36,350, is the least expensive 2 Series coupe. BMW offers both leasing and financing options for the coupe.
Leasing for the coupe starts at $524.09 per month for 36 months, with a $2,500 down payment. With a down payment of $2,500, the same can be bought with financing beginning at 3.49% APR for 60 months, or $615.64/month.
8. Chevrolet Camaro (2023)
Price: $26,100
| Pros | Cons |
| Powerful Performance Iconic Design | Limited Visibility |
The 2023 Camaro’s V6 engine has a great sound and feels that it can only be rivaled by its ferocious adversary, the Ford Mustang. The base model has an ena machine that generates 275 hp, but higher trims include an engine that generates up to 650 hp.
Although it is one of the more oversized cars, it has excellent steering response and is relatively stable, albeit its blind spots and trunk space may be an issue. The 1LS starts at $26,100, while the ZL1 starts at $67,395 with additional freight costs.
9. Mazda MX-5 Miata (2018)
Price: $26,395
| Pros | Cons |
| Pure Driving Experience Convertible Top | Limited Practicality |
The Mazda MX-5 Miata, one of the most storied roadsters in history, keeps improving with each iteration. The 2018 version is stylish, posh, and enjoyable. Although muscle cars are larger and more intimidating, the Miata may outperform them on a narrow, challenging route.
The 2.0-liter four-cylinder, rear-wheel drive, six-speed manual or automatic transmission is used in the classic fabric soft-top convertible and the folding power top variants. The Miata, which weighs just under 2,300 lb (1,043.26 kg), makes up for its meager power (only 155 hp) with nimble agility. Simply put, a two-door sports car is the most excellent vehicle, and at $26,395, this one is among the least expensive new sports cars.
10. Ford Mustang Ecoboost (2022)
Price: $27,470
| Pros | Cons |
| Fuel Efficiency Good Performance | Limited Cargo Space |
It has five trim levels: Ecoboost, Ecoboost Premium, GT, GT Premium, Mach 1, and Shelby GT500. It offers a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The Ecoboost variant is equipped with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, which provides a good amount of power while delivering relatively better fuel economy than the higher-performance V8 Mustang GT.
In terms of mileage, the exact fuel efficiency can vary based on factors such as driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle configuration, making it a good sports car. The Ecoboost trim, which costs $27,470, is the least expensive. It has a down payment requirement of $2,887 and has a beginning monthly payment of $404 for 84 months at 7.9% APR. Ford does not, however, currently lease any variants of the Mustang.
FAQs
What are the benefits of purchasing a budget sports car?
Purchasing an inexpensive sports vehicle has several benefits. First, they offer a reasonable entry point into sports vehicles, enabling fans to enjoy the rush of driving without shelling out a large sum of money. Furthermore, compared to their more costly counterparts, inexpensive sports vehicles frequently have reduced maintenance and insurance expenses, making them more cost-effective alternatives for ownership.
Are affordable sports vehicles trustworthy?
Reliability might vary depending on the precise make and model of the inexpensive sports automobile. But many affordable sports vehicles, especially those made by respected companies, deliver dependable performance. Before purchasing, it’s crucial to check the vehicle’s dependability ratings, read owner reviews, and consider aspects like warranty coverage and maintenance history.
Do inexpensive sports vehicles have good fuel economy?
Sports vehicles’ fuel economy might vary based on engine size, weight, and aerodynamics. Sports vehicles generally favor performance above fuel economy; however, recent technological advances have produced more fuel-efficient engines.
Some affordable sports vehicles could have good fuel economy, especially if they have compact, turbocharged engines. Individual mileage may vary; therefore, it’s crucial to remember that driving behaviors and environmental factors can greatly influence fuel economy.
Conclusion
Finally, inexpensive sports vehicles provide an exhilarating driving experience without the high price. These affordable solutions offer a route into the world of sports vehicles for automobile fans on a budget, combining performance, flair, and thrill.
The Hyundai Elantra N, Toyota GR86, Nissan Z, and all the other models on the list show that thrilling driving experiences don’t have to be expensive. Select the most budget sports vehicle for your needs, then be ready to spark your driving enthusiasm without breaking the bank.
