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20 Sports Cars That Are Shockingly Cheaper Than a Minivan

Cameron Eittreim July 8, 2025

When most people picture a sports car, they imagine high price tags and exclusive luxury appeal. It’s a widespread belief that these thrilling machines are reserved for the wealthy, while the practical minivan is the obvious choice for families on a budget.
However, the automotive world holds some surprises. There are sporty, head-turning cars that cost less than many new minivans—without sacrificing excitement or style.
In this article, we unveil 20 sports cars that deliver performance, personality, and pure fun—often for a shockingly lower price than your average minivan.
Prepare to rethink what “affordable” and “practical” really mean.

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1. Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a legend among driving enthusiasts for good reason. Its lightweight chassis, rear-wheel-drive layout, and precise handling deliver a pure, exhilarating driving experience—without breaking the bank.
Starting at just over $28,000, a brand-new Miata often undercuts the price of many entry-level minivans. According to reviews from Car and Driver, the Miata remains one of the most reliable and affordable sports cars on the market.
For those who value smiles per mile over sheer cargo space, the Miata proves you don’t need minivan money to own a true driver’s car.

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2. Ford Mustang (Sixth Generation)

A sleek, used Ford Mustang muscle car gleams under the sun, showcasing its bold lines and sporty design. | Photo by OG Productionz on Pexels

The sixth-generation Ford Mustang (2015-2023) brings classic American muscle into the modern era, with sharp styling and updated technology.
Surprisingly, used models are available for well under $25,000, making them less expensive than many new minivans. Sites like Kelley Blue Book reveal a vibrant market for Mustangs with low miles and advanced features.
From its rumbling engines to its sporty interior, the Mustang delivers heart-pounding excitement at an accessible price point. It’s proof that serious performance doesn’t have to cost serious money.

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3. Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86

1200px dark gray subaru brz side — A sleek Subaru BRZ and a stylish Toyota 86 are parked side by side, showcasing affordable coupe excitement. | Photo by Garvin St. Villier on Pexels

The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 are rear-wheel-drive sports twins celebrated for their balanced handling and driver engagement.
With starting prices around $29,000 new—and even less for used models—they directly compete with the cost of a typical family hauler. According to Consumer Reports, both cars boast solid reliability and strong owner satisfaction.
These compact coupes offer a pure, analog driving experience that’s hard to find, all while keeping your budget in check. For enthusiasts, they’re proof that excitement doesn’t have to come at a premium.

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4. Chevrolet Camaro (Fifth Generation)

1200px chevrolet camaro 2.0 rs 2011 — A sleek, used Chevrolet Camaro gleams under the sun, showcasing the timeless appeal of an affordable muscle car. | Photo by Belinda Schindler on Pexels

The Chevrolet Camaro (Fifth Generation) offers muscle car style and performance that’s surprisingly budget-friendly.
On the used market, fifth-gen Camaros (2010-2015) can be found for well under $20,000—often thousands less than a new minivan. According to Edmunds, these Camaros deliver strong engines and head-turning looks, appealing to those who crave excitement without overspending.
Whether you’re drawn to the iconic design or the thunderous V6 and V8 options, the Camaro stands out as a genuine sports car bargain compared to family-focused alternatives.

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5. Nissan 350Z

The Nissan 350Z is revered for its robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering up to 306 horsepower and a truly engaging drive.
Despite its impressive specs, the 350Z remains one of the most affordable performance cars on the used market—often available for less than $15,000, well below even the cheapest new minivans. According to Edmunds, the 350Z offers a combination of reliability and raw excitement few can match at this price point.
For buyers seeking classic sports car thrills without the hefty price tag, the 350Z delivers unmatched value.

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6. Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Hyundai Genesis GT Coupe — A sleek Hyundai Genesis Coupe in metallic blue shines under the sun, showcasing affordable style in a popular used coupe. | Photo by Modified Pov on Pexels

The Hyundai Genesis Coupe brings rear-wheel-drive excitement and aggressive styling at a fraction of the cost of a new minivan.
Used Genesis Coupes—especially those from 2013-2016—can often be found for under $18,000, according to Edmunds. With available engines ranging from a turbocharged four-cylinder to a powerful V6, this car offers spirited performance for drivers on a budget.
The Genesis Coupe’s blend of reliability, value, and sporty dynamics makes it a smart alternative for those who crave more excitement than a typical family vehicle can offer.

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7. Fiat 124 Spider

2018 Fiat 124 Spider Convertible Abarth Fq Oem 1 1600 — A sleek Fiat 124 Spider convertible sports car stands ready on an open road, embodying affordable roadster excitement. | Photo by Mike Bird on Pexels

The Fiat 124 Spider blends classic Italian flair with the trusted underpinnings of the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
With its turbocharged engine and striking, retro-inspired design, the 124 Spider offers a unique driving experience that stands out from the crowd. According to Edmunds, late-model used examples can be found for under $22,000—easily outpricing many new minivans.
Sporting Mazda’s renowned reliability beneath its Italian skin, the Fiat 124 Spider is a compelling choice for those who want open-air motoring and head-turning looks on a budget.

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8. BMW Z4 (E85/E89)

The BMW Z4, particularly the E85 (2002-2008) and E89 (2009-2016) generations, delivers a blend of luxury and sporty dynamics that belie its price tag.
Used Z4s can often be found for between $10,000 and $18,000, making them far more affordable than most new minivans. According to Edmunds, these convertibles offer sharp handling and timeless looks.
While maintenance for a German sports car can be higher than average, the sheer driving pleasure and prestige make the Z4 a standout bargain for enthusiasts seeking luxury on a budget.

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9. Audi TT (First/Second Gen)

1200px audi tt 2.0 tfsi quattro 8j ibis white 28429 — A sleek used Audi TT coupe gleams in the sunlight, showcasing its sporty design and affordable appeal. | Photo by Grégory Costa on Pexels

The Audi TT—especially from its first (1998-2006) and second (2007-2014) generations—delivers a stylish, premium sports coupe experience at a surprisingly attainable price.
Used Audi TTs commonly sell for between $8,000 and $16,000, comfortably undercutting the cost of most new minivans. As highlighted by Edmunds, the TT boasts agile handling, a refined interior, and available all-wheel drive.
For drivers who want European flair and sports car performance without a luxury-car price, the Audi TT remains an exciting and accessible choice.

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10. Porsche Boxster (986/987)

The Porsche Boxster (986/987 generations) offers the allure of a genuine Porsche sports car at a price point that’s often less than a new minivan.
Early Boxsters (1997-2012) can be found on the used market for $12,000 to $20,000, according to Edmunds. While maintenance and parts costs can be higher than average, the driving experience—sharp, mid-engine balance and Porsche pedigree—more than compensate.
For those who dream of owning a Porsche, the Boxster represents one of the most accessible and rewarding entry points in the sports car world.

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11. Honda S2000

Honda s2000 red rooftop sunset — A sleek Honda S2000 gleams under the sun, showcasing why this affordable roadster is a top used sports car. | Photo by Mike Bird on Pexels

The Honda S2000 is legendary for its high-revving, 9,000 rpm redline engine and razor-sharp handling, earning it a devoted following among enthusiasts.
Despite its iconic status, older S2000s are still attainable, with well-kept examples typically ranging from $18,000 to $28,000—often less than the cost of a new minivan. According to Edmunds, the S2000’s reliability and pure driving experience make it a standout in the used sports car market.
For those seeking a raw, engaging roadster, the S2000 delivers thrills and value in equal measure.

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12. Mercedes-Benz SLK

Mercedes Benz Slk 55 Amg R171 4143 45 — A sleek silver Mercedes-Benz SLK gleams in the sunlight, showcasing affordable luxury for used car enthusiasts. | Photo by Pixabay on Pexels

The Mercedes-Benz SLK stands out with its retractable hardtop and refined, luxurious interior—bringing a touch of class to the compact roadster segment.
Used SLK models, especially from the R171 (2004-2010) and R172 (2011-2016) generations, are frequently available for $10,000-$18,000, as seen on Edmunds. This price point is well below that of most new minivans.
For drivers who want open-air motoring, German engineering, and a badge of prestige, the SLK delivers a surprisingly affordable blend of style and performance.

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13. Volkswagen Golf GTI

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is the original hot hatch, blending everyday practicality with sporty performance and sharp handling.
Used GTIs from recent generations can be found for $14,000-$22,000, making them an attractive alternative to a new minivan, according to Edmunds. The GTI’s turbocharged engine and composed ride make it just as enjoyable for daily commutes as for spirited weekend drives.
For those who want performance, versatility, and savings in one stylish package, the Golf GTI easily fits the bill.

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14. Infiniti G37 Coupe

A sleek Infiniti G37 Coupe gleams in the sunshine, showcasing the affordable luxury and sporty style of a used G37. | Photo by Maria Geller on Pexels

The Infiniti G37 Coupe combines premium touches and strong V6 performance in a sleek, eye-catching package.
Powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine producing over 300 horsepower, the G37 delivers both luxury and excitement behind the wheel. According to Edmunds, well-maintained used models often range from $11,000 to $18,000—prices that rival or undercut many economy-focused minivans.
For drivers who crave comfort, style, and power without stretching their budget, the G37 Coupe is a surprisingly attainable sports-luxury contender.

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15. Dodge Challenger (Early Models)

The Dodge Challenger brings classic muscle car attitude and head-turning presence to the street, even in its early modern iterations (2008-2014).
According to Edmunds, used Challengers from these years are frequently available for $13,000-$20,000, making them a family-friendly value compared to a new minivan. With potent V6 or V8 options, the Challenger delivers a powerful, nostalgic driving experience.
For those who want to make a statement without blowing the budget, the early Dodge Challenger proves that muscle car dreams can be surprisingly affordable.

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16. Scion FR-S

A sleek used Scion FR-S sports coupe gleams under the sun, highlighting its affordable, performance-driven design. | Photo by Maël BALLAND on Pexels

The Scion FR-S shares its acclaimed chassis and rear-wheel-drive dynamics with the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86, offering a thrilling yet approachable sports car experience.
Known for its nimble handling and lightweight design, the FR-S is a favorite among driving enthusiasts. According to Edmunds, well-kept used models typically sell for $13,000-$19,000—comfortably undercutting most new minivans.
For those seeking affordable, back-to-basics driving fun with proven reliability, the Scion FR-S stands out as a smart and sporty alternative to the family hauler.

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17. Mini Cooper S (R56)

A sleek used Mini Cooper S stands out with its sporty lines, proving affordable hot hatches can turn heads. | Photo by Alex P on Pexels

The Mini Cooper S (R56) injects every drive with a playful, go-kart-like spirit thanks to its nimble chassis and turbocharged engine.
With 172-181 horsepower and lively handling, the R56 Cooper S is a favorite for those who crave excitement in a compact package. According to Edmunds, used models from 2007-2013 often sell for $8,000-$14,000—an appealing price compared to any new minivan.
If you want personality, turbo power, and city-friendly fun without overspending, the Cooper S delivers on all fronts.

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18. Pontiac Solstice

Pontiac solstice gxp coupe 2010 28537771761529 — A sleek used Pontiac Solstice convertible gleams in the sunlight, showcasing affordable open-air driving excitement. | Photo by Kris Schulze on Pexels

The Pontiac Solstice is a true bargain roadster, offering open-top excitement and classic sports car proportions at a fraction of a minivan’s cost.
With its curvy styling and lively handling, the Solstice delivers a pure, back-to-basics driving experience. According to Edmunds, used models commonly sell for $7,000-$13,000.
For those who want wind-in-your-hair motoring and standout style on a tight budget, the Pontiac Solstice proves you don’t need to spend big—or settle for a family hauler—to have fun.

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19. Acura RSX Type-S

Acura Rsx Cl02 — A sleek Acura RSX Type-S gleams under the sun, showcasing why it’s a sought-after affordable sports coupe for used car enthusiasts. | Photo by Bradikan .Cars on Pexels

The Acura RSX Type-S is celebrated for its high-revving four-cylinder engine, sport-tuned suspension, and precise manual gearbox—making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
According to Edmunds, used Type-S models from the early 2000s typically range from $7,000 to $13,000, putting them far below the price of any new minivan.
The RSX Type-S delivers a perfect blend of practicality and performance, offering a fun-to-drive coupe that won’t strain your wallet. For those seeking sporty dynamics on a budget, it’s an exceptional value.

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20. Chevrolet Corvette (C5)

A sleek Chevrolet Corvette C5 gleams under the sun, showcasing the timeless appeal of an affordable used sports car. | Photo by FBO Media on Pexels

The Chevrolet Corvette (C5) is an icon of American sports car performance, offering a 350-horsepower V8 and exhilarating rear-wheel-drive dynamics.
Despite its pedigree, the C5 Corvette (1997-2004) is remarkably affordable, with used models often selling for $13,000-$22,000, as reported by Edmunds. That’s less than many new minivans.
For those who want true sports car thrills, classic styling, and a storied badge, the C5 Corvette proves you don’t have to sacrifice excitement for budget-friendly motoring.

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Final Thoughts: Performance Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

As this list shows, owning a sports car isn’t reserved for the wealthy or impractical. With careful research and a bit of patience, you can find models that deliver thrilling performance, unique style, and lasting value—all for less than the cost of a new minivan.
Whether you crave the open road, stunning design, or simply more fun behind the wheel, today’s used market offers a wealth of budget-friendly options.
Always do your homework—review maintenance histories, check pricing guides, and take test drives. Your dream sports car might be closer—and more affordable—than you ever imagined.

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20 Sports Cars That Are Shockingly Cheaper Than a Minivan

1. Mazda MX-5 Miata

2. Ford Mustang (Sixth Generation)

3. Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86

4. Chevrolet Camaro (Fifth Generation)

5. Nissan 350Z

6. Hyundai Genesis Coupe

7. Fiat 124 Spider

8. BMW Z4 (E85/E89)

9. Audi TT (First/Second Gen)

10. Porsche Boxster (986/987)

11. Honda S2000

12. Mercedes-Benz SLK

13. Volkswagen Golf GTI

14. Infiniti G37 Coupe

15. Dodge Challenger (Early Models)

16. Scion FR-S

17. Mini Cooper S (R56)

18. Pontiac Solstice

19. Acura RSX Type-S

20. Chevrolet Corvette (C5)

Final Thoughts: Performance Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

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