Sports cars are synonymous with exhilarating driving experiences. They prioritize performance, handling, and driver engagement, often setting aside some of the comfort and practicality found in luxury cars. While the dream of owning a high-end sports car can come with a hefty price tag, the good news is that thrilling performance is accessible even on a tighter budget.
For those who are willing to save and search smartly, the under $50,000 price range opens up a fantastic selection of sports cars that deliver serious fun. While opting for models closer to the $50k limit might mean forgoing some extra features, choosing slightly lower-priced options allows for personalization and upgrades without exceeding the budget.
The world of sports cars is incredibly diverse, with each country bringing its unique flavor to performance engineering. This list of the 10 best sports cars under $50,000 showcases exciting machines from across the globe, proving that thrilling driving experiences are within reach for many enthusiasts.
Subaru BRZ / Toyota GR86 – Around $30,000
Japan made a significant impact on the sports car scene in the late 80s and early 90s with iconic models. Today, the spirit of analog performance lives on in the co-developed Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86. These rear-wheel-drive coupes are a masterclass in classic sports car fundamentals, packaged in a modern and accessible form.
The BRZ/GR86 duo is celebrated for its exceptional balance, precise steering, and low center of gravity, creating an incredibly engaging driving experience. While some might find the engine’s horsepower around 200 to be modest, the focus here is on accessible and usable performance. These cars are perfect for both novice enthusiasts looking to hone their skills and seasoned drivers seeking a pure, analog driving thrill. Starting at around $30,000, the BRZ and GR86 are among the most affordable sports cars available, offering incredible value for the fun they deliver.
Subaru WRX STI – Starting around $40,000
Who says sports cars must be two-door coupes? The Subaru WRX STI defies this notion, delivering blistering performance in a practical four-door sedan (though the STI is no longer in production after 2021, used models are readily available). Renowned for its rally-bred heritage, the WRX STI is equally at home tearing up twisty roads or tackling challenging track conditions.
Power comes from a potent turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing over 300 horsepower and ample torque. Paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission and Subaru’s legendary all-wheel-drive system with multiple differentials, the WRX STI offers incredible grip and control in all weather conditions.
Few cars can match the WRX STI’s raw speed and cornering prowess, especially considering its price point starting around $40,000 for older models and slightly higher for newer, used versions. It’s a performance bargain that delivers thrills well beyond its cost.
Mazda MX-5 Miata – Starting around $28,000
The Mazda MX-5 Miata may not boast the highest horsepower figures on this list, but it undeniably earns its place as a top sports car under $50,000. Its charm lies in its perfectly balanced chassis, lively engine, and go-kart-like handling. Mazda, a company that prides itself on being driven by enthusiasts for enthusiasts, has truly mastered the art of building nimble and engaging cars.
The MX-5 Miata features a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine delivering around 181 horsepower in current models. Drivers can choose between a slick-shifting 6-speed manual or a refined 6-speed automatic transmission. With a starting price around $28,000, the Miata is the epitome of accessible driving joy, offering pure, unadulterated fun for the masses.
Cadillac ATS Coupe (Used) – Originally Starting around $38,000
The Cadillac ATS Coupe represents American luxury with a sporty edge. While no longer in production, used models are readily available and deserving of a spot on the list of best sports cars under $50,000. With its striking design, spirited engines, and a well-engineered chassis, the ATS Coupe is a true performance contender.
When new, the base ATS Coupe came with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 272 horsepower. For those seeking more punch, a 335-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 was also available. Offered with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission, and featuring GM’s acclaimed Magnetic Ride Control suspension on some models, the ATS Coupe delivered a compelling blend of luxury and performance, challenging its German rivals. Used models can now be found well within the $50k budget, offering luxury sports car experience for less.
Ford Mustang GT – Starting around $40,000
When it comes to sheer horsepower per dollar, it’s hard to beat an American muscle car, and the Ford Mustang GT is a prime example. With its iconic retro styling, a potent 5.0-liter V8 engine churning out over 450 horsepower, a surprisingly comfortable interior, and the ability to effortlessly spin its rear tires, the Mustang GT makes a bold statement.
Modern Mustang GTs are not just about straight-line speed; their independent rear suspension ensures confident handling in the corners as well. Choose between a 6-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission, engage launch control, and experience exhilarating acceleration. Starting around $40,000, the Mustang GT offers incredible performance and heritage for the price.
Chevrolet Camaro SS – Starting around $40,000
The Chevrolet Camaro SS is the Mustang’s long-standing rival, and the latest generations are serious performance machines, especially on the track. The Camaro SS deserves its place on this list of top sports cars under $50,000 not just for its muscle car heritage, but for its genuinely impressive track capabilities, often outperforming cars with much higher price tags.
Under the hood, the Camaro SS packs Chevy’s legendary LT1 V8, delivering over 450 horsepower, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic gearbox. While a turbocharged 4-cylinder version is available, the V8 is the heart and soul of the SS, providing a thrilling soundtrack to match its performance. Starting around $40,000, the Camaro SS is a high-performance bargain.
Audi TT (Used) – Originally Starting around $44,000
From Germany, land of automotive engineering excellence, comes the Audi TT. While the TT is no longer in production after 2023, used models are readily available and offer a sophisticated blend of style, technology, and performance within the $50,000 budget. The TT’s striking and modern design, characterized by sharp LED headlights, defined body lines, and stylish wheels, is instantly recognizable.
Inside, the TT boasts a refined interior with premium materials and Audi’s innovative virtual cockpit technology. Under the skin, Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system and a spirited 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine deliver уверенное performance. With around 228 horsepower and a quick-shifting dual-clutch transmission, the TT provides a refined and engaging driving experience. Used Audi TT models offer a taste of German sports car engineering at a more accessible price point.
Audi S3 (Used) – Originally Starting around $48,000
Stepping up slightly in practicality and performance from the TT, the Audi S3 sport sedan (current models are branded as S3, previous generations might be closer to S4 in naming based on the original article’s reference to S4) offers a compelling package for driving enthusiasts. While perhaps not as overtly sporty as some coupes, the S3 delivers impressive performance and all-weather capability thanks to Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive.
Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing over 300 horsepower in recent models, the S3 offers brisk acceleration and confident handling. Available with a dual-clutch transmission for quick shifts, the S3 strikes a balance between daily usability and engaging performance. Used Audi S3 models can be found within the $50,000 budget, providing a premium sports sedan experience for the money.
BMW M235i / M240i (Used) – Originally Starting around $45,000
No list of sports cars under $50,000 would be complete without a BMW. As BMW’s prices have climbed, the 2 Series models represent the best value for performance enthusiasts on a budget. Specifically, the BMW M235i and its successor, the M240i, offer a sweet spot of power and agility. While base 2 Series models are more affordable, stepping up to the M Performance variants unlocks significantly more performance.
The M235i/M240i boasts a potent turbocharged inline-6 engine producing over 300 horsepower and ample torque. Available with either a manual or automatic transmission, these BMW coupes deliver quick acceleration and engaging handling, embodying the brand’s sporting heritage. Used M235i/M240i models offer a thrilling BMW driving experience without breaking the bank.
Volkswagen Golf R – Starting around $45,000
Rounding out our list of top sports cars under $50,000 is a hatchback: the Volkswagen Golf R. The Golf R is not just any hatchback; it’s an all-wheel-drive, turbocharged rocket that combines practicality with grin-inducing performance. While the VW GTI is the benchmark for hot hatchbacks, the “R” designation elevates the Golf to another level, delivering significantly more power and performance.
The Golf R features a high-output turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing over 315 horsepower in current models. Paired with a dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive, the Golf R offers exceptional traction and rapid acceleration. Starting around $45,000, the Golf R delivers a remarkable blend of performance, practicality, and all-weather capability, making it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts seeking versatility.
These ten sports cars demonstrate that thrilling performance and driving enjoyment are attainable without exceeding a $50,000 budget. From agile roadsters to powerful muscle cars and sophisticated European coupes, there’s a sports car on this list to ignite the passion of any driving enthusiast.
