Table of contents
Introduction
There are two guarantees with the average car enthusiast: they want to go fast, and they aren’t rich. The age old phrase of “fast, cheap, or reliable. Pick two” is as real as it gets with modifying a car. Why not make it easier? Why not start with an awesome platform that might not need to be modified as much? Now, you may think this means buying a brand new Ford Mustang or an M-Series BMW, but it doesn’t. The used car market has some timeless gems that will be perfect for an enthusiast. Join us today as we go over the greatest cheap sports cars on the used car market and why we love them so much!
Why Would We Care About Cheap Sports Cars?
Car enthusiasts love the thrill of a good sports car. The combination of sleek designs, powerful or high-revving engines, and nimble handling make these cars enticing. The term “sports car” is commonly associated to high-end luxury vehicles costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. However, a true sports car is one that inspires the driver. The car will instill confidence in its driver and provide an experience unmatched by the “regular traffic” on the road.
Fortunately, you can get this experience from some awesome cheap sports cars. These budget-friendly cars have an awesome aftermarket to customize it to your liking and have huge performance potential!
Now, come along with us and learn about our list of the most fun cheap sports cars!
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The answer is and always will be the Mazda Miata. An Iconic JDM Sports Car, Mazda’s lightweight roadster has an amazing chassis. Mazda designed this car with superb handling and a whole lot of character! The Mazda Miata’s success sparked the Spec-Miata race series and it’s cult-like following. With its limitless aftermarket, there’s no question to why the Miata is on our list of fun and cheap sports cars.
Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86
When Toyota and Subaru created the FR-S/BRZ/GT86, they knocked it out of the park. The 86 platform takes the classic front engine, rear wheel drive formula and focuses on the driving experience. Now, everyone will throw out the low power numbers. At Powershift Auto, we really don’t care about that. The platform has a plethora of aftermarket parts to adjust for the lower horsepower engine. What the car emphasizes is the handling and driver experience. Due to the availability of the car, the BRZ/86 is easily accessible in many budgets.
Hyundai Veloster Turbo
The Hyundai Veloster is an incredible hot hatchback! Hyundai’s performance hatchback has a unique three door design and is very affordable. It’s 200 horsepower, turbocharged engine is ready for you to modify and have fun! If you want to push the budget up a little more, take it to the next level with the Hyundai Veloster N! Both the Veloster Turbo and the Veloster N have solid aftermarket support and are relatively affordable for the average enthusiast. Go test drive one and see why automotive journalists love this car!
Ford Fiesta ST
Keeping up with the hot hatch segment, we have the Ford Fiesta ST! Ford designed this hot hatchback with the idea of creating a cheap sports car. While my experience with the ecoboost Fords comes from the Focus ST, the Fiesta ST is an absolute riot of a car. The go-kart like driving experience and torquey turbocharged engine makes you want to throw the Fiesta ST around a corner! Thankfully, this driving experience has a very affordable price point, often around $10,000 to $15,000 depending on mileage and options. All factors considered makes the Fiesta ST a standout choice for many enthusiasts!
Chevy Corvette C5
For those desiring a roaring V8 engine, look no further than the C5 Corvette! While you may have to navigate the interesting sellers, you can find great deals on this generation Corvette. The LS V8 platform is known for being easily modified and producing great power numbers. The C5 platform is relatively lightweight by today’s standards and is a good handling base for a track car! Not only is it a great performer and budget-friendly, but it has pop up headlights!
Honda Civic
Lastly, we have my personal favorite on the list: The Honda Civic. Where the Mazda Miata is always the answer for a track car, the Honda Civic is the answer for fun. Whether its built for going around corners or for a sleeper turbo build, the Honda Civic will always be loved. The crazy aftermarket, reliability, and dirt cheap entry point make the Civic a go-to option for any enthusiast. Personally, I like the EG generation coupes, but an EK Hatchback has a hold on my heart. Whether its a classic era Civic or a modern model, the Honda Civic will always be there for those looking for a cheap sports car experience.
Conclusion
Fun and cheap sports cars are those that focus on the driver’s experience behind the wheel. The iconic cars in this list, such as the Miata or the Corvette, provide proper platforms for modification and performance potential. Whether you prioritize handling, acceleration, or aesthetics, these cheap sports cars have you covered.
However you plan to build your budget sports car, make sure you have a plan! If you need assistance, we have a guide for time-proven car modifications that will create a great performance foundation for your ride!
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