The sports car category is one that offers all the performance, style, and experience one could ever wish for in a car – they are designed to emphasize handling, performance or the thrill of driving. This is why a good deal of drivers are usually head-over-heels over these cars. The fact that sports cars often combine high performance with high-end features and interiors, make them a great choice for many end consumers and enthusiasts alike, which is why they are one of the most popular and coveted car types out there today.
Back in the day, the term “sports cars” used to be exclusive to smaller, lighter, lower, and usually two-seater vehicles, but things have changed up today. Sports cars now come in different shapes and sizes, with the likes of the BMW M3 and Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Redeye which are both a sedan, as well as the Lamborghini Urus which is a SUV, and many more. One thing that remained common, however, is the high-powered engine cranking out ridiculous horsepower and torque.
Top-of-the-line sports cars used to be associated with hefty price tags that usually run into six or seven figures, and irrespective of this, certain caliber of people would still go out of their way to own them. Times have changed now, though, as luxury and technological innovations are becoming more accessible and affordable. The best cars nowadays don’t necessarily have to be the most expensive ones, and you won’t need to go broke trying to own an amazing sports car. That’s exactly why we’ve put together a list of the 10 best relatively cheap sports cars that are also very stylish, so if you’re looking to make a purchase soon and your budget isn’t chunky, we got your back!
Listed below are the top 10 best affordable sports cars you can buy in 2024, and they’re all under $40,000 USD.
8. 2023 Subaru BRZ ($28,595 USD)
Similar to its Toyota counterpart, the Subaru BRZ stands out as an attractive sports car, providing an immersive driving experience at an affordable price. The BRZ is equipped with a 2.4-liter flat-4 engine, generating 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, mirroring its twin. Power is transferred to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual or an optional 6-speed automatic transmission.
While the standard BRZ shares close similarities with the GR86, there are nuanced distinctions that avid enthusiasts may take note of. However, for many buyers, the ultimate decision may hinge on brand loyalty and design preferences.
7. 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata ($29,215 USD)
The 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata stands as an iconic masterpiece in the realm of sports cars. Boasting a formidable 181-hp 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, this vehicle is a true marvel on the road. Drivers have the option to choose between a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission, with the latter being our preferred choice for an authentic driving experience. The manual transmission adds an extra layer of engagement, making each journey behind the wheel a thrilling adventure.
Despite its compact size and limited cargo space, the MX-5 Miata excels as a lively and sporty daily driver. Ideal for those who prefer to travel light, it promises an exhilarating ride through city streets or winding country roads. What sets the Mazda apart from its competitors is the availability of both soft-top and hard-top versions, providing versatility for different driving preferences. Whether you’re seeking the open-air freedom of a convertible or the added refinement of a hard-top, the MX-5 Miata caters to your desires, making it the perfect companion for a spontaneous weekend drive.
6. 2024 Chevrolet Camaro ($32,495 USD)
The 2024 Chevrolet Camaro, despite maintaining the familiar 335-hp V6 engine in its 1LT entry model, has undergone several updates from its predecessor. Priced at a reasonable $32,495 for the 6-speed manual, this model promises a dynamic driving experience. For those seeking enhanced power, the LT1 trim and trims above boast a robust 6.2-liter V8, starting at $40,395. Transitioning seamlessly from one gear to another is a breeze, making the Camaro a joy to handle.
As Chevrolet bids farewell to the 6th generation after over eight years, they introduce a special Collector’s Edition for its final year, available on RS, SS, and limited ZL1 models. This unique edition commemorates the end of an era and adds an exclusive touch to the Camaro lineup. With the promise of a new chapter in the Camaro’s history, Chevrolet hints at future iterations possibly incorporating electrification. For those who relish the roar of a traditional ICE Camaro, seizing the opportunity to acquire one now is paramount. The 2024 Camaro not only delivers performance but also becomes a collector’s gem with its limited-edition finale.
5. 2023 Toyota GR86 ($28,400 USD)
The 2023 Toyota GR86, alongside its Subaru counterpart, stands out as a must-drive sports car for any enthusiast. It effortlessly earns its place among the all-time greats, offering an exceptional balance of price and performance. Powered by a 2.4-liter flat-4 engine generating 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, the GR86 provides the choice between manual and automatic transmissions. Despite its remarkable features, securing a 2023 model for yourself comes with a challenge – the demand is so high that the GR86 sold out in the UK within a mere 90 minutes, and orders had to be halted in Japan due to production limits.
Behind the wheel, the GR86 impresses with its sharp handling, benefiting from a low center of gravity and ample power for swift corner exits. Priced comfortably below $30,000, this sports car becomes an enticing option if you manage to snag one. Notably, its popularity is not just a local phenomenon; it’s a global sensation. In addition to its performance prowess, the GR86 boasts excellent fuel efficiency, making it not just a thrill on the tracks but also a practical choice for daily driving. The rear seats, doubling as extra storage space, enhance its versatility, ensuring that the GR86 seamlessly transitions from exhilarating drives to everyday use.
4. 2024 Toyota GR86 (MSRP TBA)
While there is an anticipated price increase for the 2024 GR86, we recommend exploring the Premium model for additional features. Although Toyota has not yet disclosed the pricing for the 2024 model, investing approximately an extra $4,000 in the Premium package will provide you with heated seats, 18-inch wheels, adaptive LED headlights, and an enhanced sound system. These additions contribute to a more comfortable and enjoyable experience in the GR86.
Toyota also introduces a new Performance Package, featuring larger brakes and upgraded dampers for improved handling, ride comfort, and braking performance. Excitingly, for owners of 2022 and 2023 GR86 models equipped with 12-inch wheels, the Performance Package will be available as a retrofit option.
The significant upgrade comes in the form of the newly introduced 2024 Toyota GR86 “Trueno Edition,” paying homage to the AE86 (Sprinter Trueno). This special edition boasts a distinctive two-tone black and white color scheme (with red and black also available), Trueno badges both inside and outside, and a commemorative plaque designating the car as one of the limited 860 units designated for the U.S. market.
3. 2023 Chevrolet Camaro LT V6 ($32,495 USD)
The Chevrolet Camaro LT V6 stands out as the ideal choice for those seeking a muscle car with a satisfying balance of power and affordability. Powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, it falls between the inline-4 and V8 models, delivering 335 hp and 284 lb-ft of torque. For enthusiasts desiring the V8 experience, Chevrolet offers both V8 and supercharged V8 Camaro options. While the V8 trim slightly exceeds our budget, starting at $37,795 for the LT1, it remains within reach. The formidable supercharged V8 in the new Camaro ZL1 is a standout feature.
The base trim, 1LT, equipped with the 3.6-liter V6, starts at $32,495 and comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. Opting for the 10-speed automatic adds an extra $1,500 to the cost. As you move up in price, additional luxuries like heated seats and a head-up display become available. Regardless of the chosen trim, you can expect a compelling blend of fun, performance, and value.
2. 2023 Ford Mustang ($27,770 USD)
The Mustang EcoBoost, positioned as the entry-level model, is priced below $30,000 and features a turbocharged inline-4 EcoBoost engine that generates 310 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. The base model provides flexibility with a choice between a 6-speed manual transmission and a 10-speed automatic.
While the EcoBoost may have fewer cylinders compared to the Mustang GT with its V8 engine, it still offers a lively driving experience befitting a muscle car. Moreover, the Mustang proves to be an excellent option for daily use, boasting better mpg figures in its entry-level configuration.
1. 2024 Ford Mustang ($30,920 USD)
While the 2023 model saw minimal changes, the 2024 Mustang introduces substantial upgrades, marking the advent of the seventh generation for this iconic muscle car. Notable enhancements include a redesigned fascia, a modified chassis, an entirely new interior, and some alterations in the powertrain.
As anticipated, the 2024 model comes with an increase in price, starting at $30,920. It is equipped with the 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine, delivering 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Regrettably, the entry-level model is furnished with a 10-speed automatic transmission as the standard option, with the manual gearbox exclusively available for GT trims and higher
