Are you on the hunt for an adrenaline rush without emptying your wallet? We’ve put together a list of the top 10 best cheap sports cars that deliver on excitement and performance, all while keeping your budget in check. Whether you’re itching for that weekend thrill ride or a daily driver with an extra kick, these cars are your best bet.
1. Chevrolet Camaro
The 2010 Chevrolet Camaro is a symbol of speed and power among affordable sports cars. With a 4.4-second 0 to 60 mph time and a price around $20,000, it offers thrilling performance. The base model features a 304 horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 engine, while the SS variant includes a 6.2-liter V-8.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $585
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,015
What We Like About It:
The Chevrolet Camaro’s combination of speed, affordability, and reliability makes it a compelling choice. Its powerful engines and modern yet nostalgic design provide an exhilarating driving experience that’s hard to beat in this price range.
2. Mazda Miata
The Mazda Miata, particularly the 2016 MX-5 model, stands out in the realm of affordable sports cars with its impressive J.D. Power reliability score of 83/100. Known for its swift acceleration, taking just 6.6 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph, the Miata is a compact two-seater that’s packed with spirit and energy. The 2023 model continues this legacy with a 181-horsepower four-cylinder engine and a six-speed manual gearbox. It’s available in the used market for around $19,000 to $20,000. Although not ideal for daily commutes or long journeys, the Miata offers essential features and a finely-tuned chassis, making it a joy to drive.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $429
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,761
What We Like About It:
The Mazda Miata’s reliability, combined with its exhilarating performance and affordable price, makes it an attractive option for sports car enthusiasts. Its compact size and agile handling provide a unique and enjoyable driving experience.
3. Chevrolet Corvette
The 2006 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Coupe offers a blend of speed and handling with a powerful V-8 engine. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds and is priced under $17,000. The 505 horsepower Z06 variant is notable for its exceptional performance.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $737
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,714
What We Like About It:
The Chevrolet Corvette’s performance and reliability make it a standout choice for enthusiasts looking for an affordable yet thrilling sports car. Its powerful engine and rugged design offer an impressive driving experience.
4. Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ, alongside its twin the Toyota 86, offers an exhilarating driving experience at an accessible price point of approximately $18,000. With a J.D. Power reliability score of 73/100, the BRZ is a practical daily driver and an exciting weekend car. It features a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.8 seconds, thanks to its 2.0-liter, 200 horsepower engine. The BRZ’s 228 horsepower 2.4-liter flat-four engine, low-effort manual transmission, and responsive handling make it a tempting choice for spirited drives. It also offers practical features like interior storage, rear jump seats, and a spacious trunk.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $441
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,996
What We Like About It:
The Subaru BRZ’s blend of speed, dependability, and practicality makes it a standout choice. Its responsive handling and ample power offer a thrilling drive, while its practical features make it suitable for everyday use.
5. Nissan 350Z
The Nissan 350Z, a sleek Japanese touring car, is known for its affordability and reliability. It features a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 305 horsepower and is priced as low as $7,000. The 350Z is a reliable sports car with a J.D. Power reliability rating of 81/100.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $452
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $6,157
What We Like About It:
The Nissan 350Z offers an excellent combination of power, affordability, and dependability. Its captivating road presence and impressive performance make it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and enjoyable sports car experience.
6. Porsche Boxster
The 2007 Porsche Boxster, known for its exceptional handling, is a top choice among affordable sports cars. It’s powered by a 2.7-liter H6 engine producing 245 horsepower, enabling a 5.8-second sprint from 0 to 60 mph. Despite being older, it remains a reliable and outstanding option. The Boxster Base and Boxster S with its 295 horsepower, 3.4-liter flat-six engine, offer robust performance.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $824
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $15,670
- Priced under $16,000
What We Like About It:
The Porsche Boxster’s blend of performance, handling, and relative affordability makes it an excellent choice for car enthusiasts. Its powerful engine and agile handling contribute to a captivating driving experience.
10. BMW M3
The 2003 BMW M3 E46 is a dream car for many, known for its popularity in various circles. It’s powered by a 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine producing 333 horsepower and is priced as low as $12,400.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $1,161
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,219
What We Like About It:
The BMW M3 combines power, performance, and dependability in an affordable package. Its iconic status and exhilarating driving experience make it a highly sought-after choice for car enthusiasts.
7. Ford Mustang
The sixth-generation Ford Mustang is a celebrated member of the top 10 cheap sports cars for its exceptional reliability. It’s affordable, with minimal annual maintenance costs, and even the EcoBoost variant achieves a swift 0 to 60 mph time in under five seconds.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $709
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $7,093
What We Like About It:
The Ford Mustang stands out for its lively character and performance-oriented essence. Equipped with a manual transmission, it offers an engaging driving experience. Its reliability, affordability, and appeal make it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
8. Volkswagen GTI
The MK7 Volkswagen GTI is part of the renowned Golf lineup, known for its blend of reliability, fun, speed, and sportiness. It’s a practical hot hatch that excels as a daily driver. The 2018 Golf GTI achieves a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.7 seconds and is priced below $20,000.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $791
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $5,576
What We Like About It:
The Volkswagen Golf GTI offers an accessible entry into sporty cars, combining thrilling performance with practicality. It’s a great option for those who want a reliable and fun-to-drive car that doesn’t compromise on everyday usability.
9. Hyundai Genesis Coupe
The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe features a spacious cabin, robust 3.8-liter V-6 engine with 306 horsepower, and is priced at approximately $11,000. It also offers a 2.0T model with a turbocharged 210 horsepower engine.
What We Like About It:
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe offers a great combination of speed, dependability, and affordability. It’s a compelling option for those seeking a spacious and powerful sports car without breaking the bank.
10. BMW M3
The 2003 BMW M3 E46 is a dream car for many, known for its popularity in various circles. It’s powered by a 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine producing 333 horsepower and is priced as low as $12,400.
- Avg. Yearly Maintenance Costs: $1,161
- Est. Maintenance Costs During First 10 Years: $13,219
What We Like About It:
The BMW M3 combines power, performance, and dependability in an affordable package. Its iconic status and exhilarating driving experience make it a highly sought-after choice for car enthusiasts.
Josh Clark