You don’t need six figures to have a good time behind the wheel. Some sports cars deliver everything that matters—sharp handling, solid power, and real connection—without draining your savings. These aren’t trailer queens or future collectibles locked in garages. They’re meant to be driven hard, enjoyed often, and picked up without a second mortgage. Whether you’re chasing redline on a backroad or just want something that feels alive, here are 10 iconic sports cars that still bring the thrill—on a budget.

Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA/NB)

The Miata has always nailed that less-is-more approach. The first two generations—NA and NB—are light, simple, and still easy to find under $10K. The NA’s 1.6L and 1.8L four-cylinder engines don’t make huge power, but paired with a five-speed and rear-wheel drive, they’re a blast to toss around.

Weighing under 2,300 pounds, it’s the kind of car that begs for twisty backroads. Parts are cheap, reliability is strong, and the driving feel is better than cars costing three times as much.

Porsche 944

Yes, it’s a Porsche you can actually afford. The 944 came with a near-perfect weight balance, front-engine layout, and a 2.5L inline-four that made around 150 hp in early models, up to 208 hp in the later 944 S2.

It’s not fast in a straight line by today’s standards, but it handles beautifully and feels planted. Prices have gone up a bit, but you can still find driver-condition cars in the $10K–$15K range if you’re patient.

BMW Z3 3.0i

The Z3 is often overlooked, but the 3.0i model punches above its weight. The straight-six under the hood makes 225 horsepower, and with a curb weight under 3,000 pounds, it moves with purpose.

It’s got that classic long-hood, short-deck roadster look and a solid five-speed manual option. You’ll find these for under $12K all day, and while they might not be collector-grade yet, they’re great drivers with serious fun-per-dollar value.

C5 Chevrolet Corvette

If you want V8 power on a budget, it’s hard to beat a C5 Corvette. The LS1 under the hood makes 345 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Zero to 60? Low 4s if you’re quick with the shifter.

These cars are still surprisingly affordable, with decent examples going for $12K–$18K. The ride is comfortable, parts are everywhere, and it’s got real performance cred without the high-end price tag.

Ford Mustang GT (SN95/New Edge)

The SN95-generation Mustang GT—especially the 1999–2004 “New Edge” refresh—still delivers a solid muscle car experience for cheap. The 4.6L V8 made 260 horsepower, and with a stick shift, it’s more fun than most people remember.

Aftermarket support is massive, and they’re easy to mod. You can pick one up in solid shape for well under $10K, leaving you room to tweak it however you want.

Nissan 350Z

The 350Z brought Nissan back to the affordable sports car game. With a 3.5L V6 making around 287–306 horsepower (depending on the year), rear-wheel drive, and a six-speed manual, it checks all the right boxes.

Handling is tight, the brakes are strong, and it’s a true two-seater built to be driven. Prices have crept up, but you can still find clean examples under $12K if you shop smart.

Honda S2000 (High-Mileage Models)

S2000 prices have gone way up, but higher-mileage AP1 models (1999–2003) still sneak in under $20K—and they’re worth it. With a 2.0L engine that revs to 9,000 rpm and makes 240 horsepower, this thing was built to scream.

It’s light, sharp, and rewards good driving. The six-speed manual is one of the best ever made. Even with miles on the clock, well-maintained S2Ks hold together and keep delivering that high-revving thrill.

Subaru BRZ / Scion FR-S

The BRZ and FR-S were built for balance. They’re not powerhouses—the 2.0L flat-four makes 200–205 horsepower—but with rear-wheel drive, a low center of gravity, and a proper six-speed manual, they’re a great time on the right road.

You’ll find used examples in the $13K–$18K range, and many haven’t been abused. They’re perfect for learning car control or just enjoying a pure driving experience without going overboard.

Acura Integra GS-R (DC2)

Before the Type R, there was the GS-R. Its 1.8L VTEC engine made 170 horsepower and loved to rev past 8,000 rpm. It was light, front-wheel drive, and handled like a go-kart with a bit of grown-up refinement.

They’re getting harder to find in clean condition, but early 2000s survivors still pop up in the $8K–$12K range. And if you’ve ever driven one through the gears on a backroad, you know exactly why it’s on this list.

Mazda RX-8

The RX-8 isn’t for everyone, but if you understand rotary engines—or don’t mind learning—it’s one of the most affordable ways to get real sports car dynamics. The 1.3L rotary made up to 238 horsepower and spun to 9,000 rpm.

It came with near-perfect weight distribution, rear-wheel drive, and a slick six-speed manual. Yes, you have to stay on top of maintenance, but you also get a car that feels alive in a way few others at this price do.

*This article was hand crafted with AI-powered tools and has been car-fully, I mean carefully, reviewed by our editors.