You don’t need six figures to enjoy a great sports car. Some of the best-driving machines on the road today can be had for surprisingly reasonable prices. Whether you’re after razor-sharp handling, raw horsepower, or top-down fun, these 10 sports cars deliver big thrills without breaking the bank. From brand-new bargains to used gems that punch way above their price, these cars prove you can enjoy the fast lane—on a realistic budget.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Miata has been the go-to affordable sports car for over three decades, and it’s still one of the best. With a lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive, and a slick 6-speed manual, it delivers pure driving joy. You’re not getting huge horsepower, but you don’t need it. It’s all about balance, feedback, and simplicity. Whether brand new or used, the Miata is one of the best bangs for your buck in the sports car world—and with rock-solid reliability, it won’t cost a fortune to keep on the road either.
Ford Mustang GT (S550)
The S550-generation Mustang GT packs a naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 that delivers power, noise, and excitement in spades—all for a price that undercuts most rivals. Used models can be found well under $30,000, and newer ones still feel like a bargain compared to European competitors. You get serious straight-line speed, a decent interior, and loads of aftermarket support. It’s a muscle car that can also corner, and it’s still one of the best deals for high-horsepower thrills.
Chevrolet Corvette C6
If you want supercar performance on a used car budget, the C6 Corvette is hard to beat. With an LS2 or LS3 V8 under the hood and a 6-speed manual available, it offers 400+ horsepower and a real sense of occasion. You’ll find clean examples under $25K, and they’re surprisingly easy to maintain. The interior is dated, but the performance and driving experience make up for it. Whether for track days or weekend cruises, a C6 Corvette delivers serious fun without the serious price.
Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ
These lightweight coupes are built for drivers who love corners more than drag strips. With a 2.4L flat-four, rear-wheel drive, and excellent balance, the GR86 and BRZ are true modern-day Miatas—with a roof. They’re affordable brand new and even better value used. These cars aren’t about numbers—they’re about feel, feedback, and fun per dollar. And with the second-gen model improving power and interior quality, they’re better than ever without losing what made them great.
Porsche Cayman (987 / 981)
A used Porsche Cayman offers one of the most rewarding driving experiences for under $35K. Mid-engine balance, sharp steering, and the kind of build quality you’d expect from Stuttgart make it feel special every time you get behind the wheel. The 987 generation is the cheapest, but the 981 adds modern updates and a sweeter sound. Maintenance isn’t cheap, but the experience you get is worth every penny. It’s a sports car that feels like it belongs on a track—without the exotic price tag.
BMW Z4 (E85/E89)
If you want a premium roadster with real driving chops, the Z4 delivers. Both the E85 and E89 generations offer strong engines, responsive steering, and that top-down freedom. The inline-six models especially offer a smooth, refined powerband with plenty of torque. You can find older Z4s for under $15K, and they’re still stylish and fast. It may not be as raw as a Miata, but it offers a more mature feel with solid German engineering behind it.
Nissan 370Z
The 370Z flew under the radar for years, but now it’s finally getting the respect it deserves. With a 3.7L V6, rear-wheel drive, and a 6-speed manual, it offers big power and aggressive looks for surprisingly little cash. Used models can be found under $20K with low miles. It’s not the most refined car, but it’s durable, quick, and delivers the kind of driving experience that reminds you why Z-cars have such a following. Value doesn’t get much better in the world of V6-powered sports cars.
Audi TT Quattro (Mk2 / Mk3)
The Audi TT offers sporty looks and refined performance at a price that’s often overlooked. Later Mk2 and Mk3 models offer turbocharged engines, all-wheel drive, and well-built interiors that feel more upscale than most in this price range. It’s not a raw sports car like a Miata, but it’s fast, stylish, and perfect for spirited daily driving. With strong aftermarket support and a loyal following, the TT remains one of the more underrated bargains in the European sports car scene.
Dodge Challenger R/T (Used)
The Challenger R/T may be big, but it still knows how to have fun. With a 5.7L HEMI V8, it delivers tire-roasting torque and a muscle car soundtrack you won’t find in many newer cars. You won’t be carving canyons like a Cayman, but for cruising and straight-line thrills, it’s an unbeatable value. Used examples are widely available under $25K, and with room for four and a big trunk, it’s actually practical too. It’s one of the few affordable ways left to enjoy true V8 fun.
Hyundai Genesis Coupe (3.8 R-Spec)
The Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec was Hyundai’s swing at the performance coupe segment—and it hit harder than people expected. With a 348-hp V6, Brembo brakes, rear-wheel drive, and a manual gearbox, it delivered big power and fun for not much money. Today, these cars are surprisingly affordable, with used R-Spec models under $15K. They’re fun, reliable, and still look sharp. It may not have made a big splash when new, but in the used market, it’s a real performance bargain.
Acura RSX Type-S
The RSX Type-S is one of Honda’s best front-wheel-drive performance cars. With a high-revving 2.0L i-VTEC engine, slick 6-speed manual, and lightweight chassis, it offers sharp handling and surprising speed. These cars are fun to drive, reliable, and still affordable in the used market. Enthusiasts love the balance between everyday practicality and spirited performance. With decent gas mileage and parts availability, the RSX Type-S is one of the best values for anyone looking to get into the world of tuners or just wants a reliable, rev-happy coupe.
Mini Cooper S (R53/R56)
Small, agile, and packed with personality, the Mini Cooper S offers hot hatch performance with premium flair. The R53 supercharged version and the R56 turbocharged model both deliver strong mid-range power, go-kart handling, and cheeky styling. They’re fuel-efficient, fun to drive, and easy to park, making them perfect for both city commutes and weekend backroads. With tons of aftermarket support and good examples under $10K, the Mini Cooper S remains one of the most entertaining and affordable ways to enjoy spirited driving without breaking the bank.
Chevrolet Camaro SS (5th Gen)
The 5th-gen Camaro SS brought muscle car power back in a big way. With an LS3 V8 making over 400 horsepower and a 6-speed manual, it’s a full-on performance beast that can be found used under $25K. It looks aggressive, sounds even better, and has serious straight-line speed. While not as nimble as smaller sports cars, it holds its own in corners too. If you want a modern American muscle car with serious value and presence, this generation of the Camaro delivers the goods.
Lexus SC300 / SC400
Often overlooked, the Lexus SC offers reliable luxury with sleeper sports car potential. The SC300 came with a version of the Supra’s 2JZ engine, while the SC400 had a smooth V8. Both offer long-lasting Toyota reliability, plush interiors, and classic ‘90s styling. The SC300, in particular, has become popular with tuners, but even stock examples provide a refined, rear-wheel-drive experience. Prices are climbing, but you can still find solid deals—especially for what these cars offer in long-term comfort and potential performance.
Fiat 124 Spider (2017-2020)
The Fiat 124 Spider shared its bones with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, but added Italian flair and turbocharged torque. It’s just as fun to drive, with excellent handling and light weight, but delivers a different kind of power. The cabin is tight but stylish, and the ride is surprisingly refined for a roadster. Used prices are already dipping below $20K, making it one of the most charming, open-top values around. For drivers who want Miata magic with a twist, the 124 Spider is a top pick.