There is nothing like revving the engine and accelerating at remarkable speeds in mere seconds. But one of the main hesitations of potential buyers of sports cars is the price tag. When people think of speedy sports cars, they usually associate speed with luxury cars, such as Lamborghinis, Bugattis, or Aston Martins. The issue is that with price tags ranging from hundreds of thousands of dollars to millions. For the average American, these cars cost more than their houses. But what if I told you that yes, you can have your cake and eat it too? Affordable cars can be fast.
This article will provide you with options that not only have the speed and sporty look that you want but are also within a realistic price range.
Mazda Miata Mx-5 ($26,830)
When you think of the Mazda Miata, you automatically associate it with being small, yet speedy. All three trim levels also have the option of the hard top or soft top and can also be a six-speed manual or automatic.
- Mazda Miata Sport ($26, 830): The Sport is the least expensive trim level, but that does not mean that it is lacking. The Sport includes the push-to-start feature, 16-inch aluminum wheels, and LED headlights and tail lights. For an extra $1500, you can upgrade your Sport with the Sports Appearance Package which includes an added front sill extension, a neat bumper skirt, and a rear spoiler.
- Mazda Miata Club ($30,290): includes heated seats and 17-inch aluminum wheels. You also have the option of purchasing the removable hardtop for an additional $2,755. If you want to take your Club to the next level, you can add the Brembo/BBS Recaro package. For $4,470, you can have the Brembo front brakes, red calipers, sport seats, and BBS forged aluminum wheels.
- Mazda Miata Grand Touring ($31, 770): includes upgrades such as leather seats, adaptive front lighting, automatic wipers, and automatic climate control. If you want the Nappa leather seats in white, that is going to cost you an additional $300. The Sports Appearance Package is also available and if you are willing to spend a little extra, you can also purchase the RF version starting at $35, 520.
The 2021 Mazda, while modernized, does not deviate far from the classic look. Do not let the small size fool you, because this car is capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds.
Price: The 2021 Mazda Miata Mx-5 comes in three different trim levels, which also alters the price. However, all three trim levels include the 2.0 Liter 4-Cylinder engine with 181 horsepower.
Image source: Pixabay
2021 Dodge Challenger ($30, 365)
Hailed as one of the American classics, the 2021 Dodge Challenger offers the horsepower that you want but at a price that can fit within your budget. The trim levels include:
- SXT ($30,365): basic package with a 3.6 Liter V6 engine that delivers 305 hp. Includes an 8-speed automatic transmission, 18-inch wheels, and Apple Car Play/Android Audio
- GT ($33,365): 3.6 Liter V6 engine and 305 hp. Remote start features, fog lights, 20-inch wheels, and performance steering and suspension are also added to this trim package.
- R/T ($37, 065): 5.7 liter V8 engine with 375 hp. Similar to the GT but with a more powerful engine.
- R/T Scat Pack ($43,140): 6.5 liter Hemi V8 engine with 485 hp. The top-of-the-line Brembo performance brake system and configurable drive modes set this trim level above the rest.
With recorded top speeds of 203 mph and going from 0 to 60 in 3.25 seconds, this car will fulfill your need for speed. It’s easy to see why the Challenger ranks high among the fastest affordable cars.
2021 Ford Mustang GT ($37,480)
Everyone knows what they are looking at when they see the iconic horse emblem. The different models include:
- EcoBoost ($28,400): under the hood is a 2.3 liter 4 cylinder engine with 310 hp
- EcoBoost Premium ($33,420): Similar to the EcoBoost, this particular trim package has a 2.3 liter 4 cylinder engine with 310 hp
- GT ($37, 480): with more money, comes more power with this particular model. The GT has a 5.0 liter V8 with 460 hp.
- GT Premium ($41, 480): Like the GT, this trim level has the 5.0 liter V8 with 460 hp. Both the GT and the GT Premium have the option of the GT Performance Package. For an additional $6,295, you can add Brembo front brakes, limited-slip differentials, and unique chassis tuning.
With top speeds of 163 mph and its ability to go from 0 to 60 in only 4.2 seconds, the Mustang GT is the perfect car if you are looking for something classic, fast, and inexpensive.
2021 Subaru WRX ($27,495)
Adding another import to finish off our list is the 2021 Subaru WRX. Subaru, also known as “Subis” is one of the top go-to cars if you are looking for speed and enjoying your car recreationally. The WRX comes in as one of the most affordable options on our list.
- Base ($27, 495): has the 4 cylinder 268 hp direct-injection turbocharged Subaru Boxer Engine
- Premium ($30,045): has the same engine as the base, but also has the additional sport lineartronic transmission available
- Limited ($32, 095): similar to the base model and Premium, with the exception of a few amenities. These additional features include: Subaru Starlink Safety and Security, 10-way power driver’s seat, LED Fog Lights, and Available blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert
- STI ($37,245): In addition to all of the features included in the other trim packages, the STI is the top tier model because it includes symmetrical all-wheel drive with a driver-controlled center differential, track-tuned suspension, 310-hp turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine, and the 6-piston/2-piston Brembo high-performance braking system
With top speeds of 155 mph and its ability to go from 0 to 60 in only 4.6 seconds, the Subaru WRX is not only fast but is also one of the more affordable sports cars on the market.
Final thoughts on the fastest and most affordable cars on the market
If the only issue preventing you from buying a car that offers power and speed is the cost, then this list can put your mind at ease. With the options that we have presented to you, you will not only be able to drive in style and fast, but you can also pay for the car without sweating the expense.