In a world where the average new car price hovers around $50,000, finding affordable yet thrilling sports cars can be a challenging quest. Fear not, as the automotive landscape still hosts a lineup of exhilarating rides that won’t break the bank. From the iconic Mazda MX-5 Miata to the powerful BMW M240i Coupe, here are the top 20 sporty cars for 2024, each priced below the $50,000 mark.
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata – $29,215
- A perennial favorite, the Miata delivers affordable fun with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, snappy six-speed manual, and convertible options.
2. Volkswagen Jetta GLI – $29,310
- The Jetta GLI offers a sedan alternative to the GTI, packing a turbocharged 2.0L engine with 228 horsepower and a choice between a manual and a dual-clutch transmission.
3. Toyota GR86 – $29,495
- With a rear-drive setup, a naturally aspirated 2.4L flat-four, and the option of a six-speed manual or automatic, the GR86 is a dynamic and affordable sports car.
4. Honda Civic Si – $30,195
- The Civic Si combines affordability and functionality, featuring a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine, limited-slip differential, and a customizable drive mode.
5. Subaru BRZ – $31,315
- Sharing a platform with the GR86, the BRZ adds Subaru’s touch with a StarLink infotainment system and EyeSight driver assistance technology.
6. Subaru WRX – $31,625
- Offering more power, the WRX boasts a turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder engine with 271 horsepower, optional CVT, and performance-oriented TR trim.
7. Ford Mustang EcoBoost – $32,515
- The iconic Mustang starts at $32,515, featuring a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and rear-wheel drive.
8. Volkswagen GTI – $33,190
- The GTI returns with a turbocharged 2.0L engine, 241 horsepower, and a seven-speed dual-clutch or manual transmission, offering a variety of trims.
9. Hyundai Elantra N – $34,015
- The Elantra N adds spice to the sedan segment with a turbocharged 2.0L engine, 276 horsepower, and a choice between a six-speed manual and an eight-speed dual-clutch.
10. Acura Integra – $32,995 – Blending performance and refinement, the new Integra features a 200-horsepower engine, CVT transmission, and Acura’s premium touches.
11. Mini John Cooper Works – $36,395 – Mini’s John Cooper Works models offer a limited run for 2024, featuring a 228-horsepower turbocharged engine and the choice between a manual and an automatic.
12. Toyota GR Corolla – $37,595 – The GR Corolla stands out with a three-cylinder turbocharged engine, 300 horsepower, and all-wheel drive, providing a thrilling hatchback experience.
13. Nissan Z – $43,305 – The Z returns with a sleek design, a twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivering 400 horsepower, and a choice between a six-speed manual and a nine-speed automatic.
14. Ford Mustang GT – $44,305 – Stepping up to the GT variant unlocks a 5.0L V8 with 486 horsepower, offering a true muscle car experience with a choice between manual and automatic transmissions.
15. Honda Civic Type R – $45,890 – The Type R represents the pinnacle of the Civic lineup, boasting 315 horsepower, a six-speed manual, and aggressive styling for enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance.
16. Volkswagen Golf R – $46,890 – The Golf R, the GTI’s more powerful sibling, features a turbocharged 2.0L engine with 315 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a choice between manual and DSG transmissions.
17. Cadillac CT4-V – $47,990 – Combining luxury and performance, the CT4-V boasts a turbocharged 2.7L engine with 325 horsepower, a 10-speed automatic, and a premium driving experience.
18. Toyota Supra 2.0 – $47,535 – The Supra 2.0 offers an entry point into Toyota’s sports car lineup, featuring a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, rear-wheel drive, and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
19. Audi S3 – $48,095 – The S3 brings Audi’s sophistication to the hot hatch segment with a turbocharged 2.0L engine, 306 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and a seven-speed automatic transmission.
20. BMW M240i Coupe – $50,695 – While pushing the upper limit of affordability, the M
