Top Choices for Your First Sports Car

You dream of owning a Porsche 911 or Aston Martin Valkyrie, but your budget is more on target for a Ford, Nissan, or Toyota. While you may never afford one of those iconic quarter of a million $200k sports cars, you’ll find plenty of fun options for speed and excitement within your price range. Here are some suggestions for the top entry-level sports car.

Mazda – a price to thrill

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is not only affordable, but it’s breathtaking and thrilling to drive. Even just sitting in your driveway, it will be sure to turn the neighbors’ heads. A lightweight frame enhances the responsive handling as you put the soft-top or retractable hard-top down for a fun ride on a warm summer afternoon. Even the high-end Miata RF is priced right at under $36,000 while providing a little luxury along with the exciting drive.

Chevrolet – the American sports car

There’s no denying that Europe and Asia have become the leaders in legendary sports cars, but the US isn’t to be forgotten. You’ll find several affordable models with the Chevy Corvette Stingray leading the way. This model sports a lot of luxury amenities, such as heated and ventilated seats and a Bose premium sound system. Powering this model is a 6.2L V8 with 490 horses and a top speed of just over 190 mph. Entry-level model is under $60k but expect to spend more to get everything you want. It’s more expensive than the average sedan, but much less than high-end sports cars.

Toyota – where value leads the way

Toyota is a brand synonymous with retained value and longevity, so you’d expect nothing less from the manufacturer’s sports car, the Toyota GR Supra. Powering this model is either a turbocharged four-cylinder or turbocharged V6, both with the eight-speed automatic transmission. Tune up your road music on the JBL hi-fi surround sound system while advanced safety features ensure this is one safe ride. As a coupe, this car is a premium ride for a pretty price of between $42,000 and $55,000, depending on how much extra amenities you want.

BMW – synonymous with luxury

If the name is important to you, then consider the BMW Z4 Roadster. This model captures the heart of a BMW with clean good looks and exciting agility and power. Under the hood is a 2L twin-turbo four-cylinder or a 3L twin turbo V6. Choose the BMW M-badged package for 382 horsepower to provide an added thrill. With a price that starts out at under $50,000, you get a lot of car and a longstanding reputation for luxury in an affordable and fun package.

Nissan – stretching the limit of affordability

If you’re a serious fan of sports cars, you might want to give the Nissan GT-R a second look. Even though the price tag is a little higher than the other models on this list at about $113,000, it still falls well below the price you would look at for the Aston Marten or a Maserati. This model is also practical for the person who wants to drive it everyday with four seats and a trunk. At the same time, it doesn’t compromise on the thrill with the capability to go from zero to 60 in just 2.5 seconds.

With so many options, there’s no reason you can’t have a sports car even with a limited budget. Choose any of these models to make a statement out on the road. You can also find a great deal with a used version to save even more money. Just get out and test drive one to see which model makes your heart skip a beat.