# 5 Budget-Friendly Sports Cars to Consider (Yet Often Ignored)
When discussing sports cars, many individuals instantly recall high-end, pricey models like the Porsche 911, Chevrolet Corvette, or the Ferrari 488. Nevertheless, there are plenty of sports cars that provide exhilarating performance, stylish aesthetics, and driving thrills without draining your finances. These budget-friendly sports cars are frequently overlooked, yet they warrant significant attention for anyone eager to revel in the joy of driving without breaking the bank. Here are five budget-friendly sports cars to keep on your radar:
### 1. **Mazda MX-5 Miata**
– **Price Range:** $25,000 – $35,000 (new)
– **Why It’s Overlooked:** Some individuals may regard the Miata as “too compact” or “lacking power.”
– **Why It’s Worth Considering:** The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a contemporary classic that has been offering pure driving enjoyment for over thirty years. Its lightweight architecture, rear-wheel-drive configuration, and excellently balanced chassis render it one of the most engaging cars to drive, irrespective of its cost. The Miata might not boast the brute strength of certain other sports cars, but its responsive handling and open-top experience make it delightful on winding roads. Moreover, it is dependable, fuel-efficient, and fairly low-maintenance.
### 2. **Subaru BRZ / Toyota GR86**
– **Price Range:** $28,000 – $32,000 (new)
– **Why It’s Overlooked:** Some fans may bypass the BRZ/GR86 because of its moderate horsepower.
– **Why It’s Worth Considering:** The Subaru BRZ and its sibling, the Toyota GR86, are built for driving aficionados. These vehicles showcase a low center of gravity due to their flat-four “boxer” engines and almost perfect weight distribution. This design yields a sports car that handles brilliantly, with accurate steering and an engaging rear end that turns every curve into a chance for excitement. The BRZ/GR86 may lack the most powerful engine, but its lightweight build and driver-centric approach make it a thrilling ride on both roads and tracks.
### 3. **Fiat 124 Spider**
– **Price Range:** $25,000 – $30,000 (used)
– **Why It’s Overlooked:** The Fiat 124 Spider is frequently eclipsed by its near relative, the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
– **Why It’s Worth Considering:** The Fiat 124 Spider shares a foundation with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, yet presents a distinctive Italian style that differentiates it. Equipped with a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine, the 124 Spider provides more low-end torque than the Miata, lending it a quicker feel in day-to-day driving scenarios. The Fiat also boasts unique styling with a more timeless and refined look that pays tribute to the original 124 Spider from the 1960s. For those seeking a fun and affordable roadster with a touch of European elegance, the Fiat 124 Spider is a fantastic option.
### 4. **Ford Mustang EcoBoost**
– **Price Range:** $28,000 – $35,000 (new)
– **Why It’s Overlooked:** The EcoBoost Mustang often gets overshadowed by its V8-powered GT counterpart.
– **Why It’s Worth Considering:** The Ford Mustang EcoBoost presents an enticing combination of performance, style, and affordability. Fueled by a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, the EcoBoost Mustang generates 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, making it more than sufficient for an exhilarating driving experience. The EcoBoost variant is also lighter than the V8 GT, enhancing handling and agility. Additionally, the EcoBoost Mustang is more fuel-efficient and has lower insurance costs, resulting in a sensible choice for those desiring a sports car without the added expenses of a V8 engine.
### 5. **Hyundai Veloster N**
– **Price Range:** $32,000 – $35,000 (new)
– **Why It’s Overlooked:** The Veloster N is often ignored due to its unconventional three-door configuration and the Hyundai branding.
– **Why It’s Worth Considering:** The Hyundai Veloster N is a hot hatch that exceeds expectations within its class. Equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine generating 275 horsepower, a sport-tuned suspension, and a plethora of performance features, the Veloster N stands out in the budget sports car arena. Its unconventional three-door design adds utility, while the bold styling and vibrant color choices help it make a statement on the streets. The Veloster N also integrates multiple driving modes, including an N mode that enhances the vehicle’s responsiveness for peak performance. It’s a fun, versatile, and budget-friendly sports car that merits greater recognition.
