10 Best Affordable Sports Cars to Buy in 2025

For car enthusiasts, owning a sports car doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. In 2025, there are plenty of affordable sports cars that deliver thrilling performance, sharp handling, and stylish designs—all without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a lightweight roadster, a turbocharged coupe, or a performance sedan, this guide covers the 10 best affordable sports cars worth considering this year.

1. Mazda MX-5 Miata – The Lightweight Icon

Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 181 hp
Torque: 151 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Starting Price: $30,515

The Mazda MX-5 Miata remains one of the most engaging sports cars available. Its lightweight design, precise steering, and balanced chassis make it an absolute joy to drive. While it’s not the most powerful option on this list, the Miata proves that a great sports car is about handling, not just horsepower.

2. Toyota GR86 – Rear-Wheel Drive Fun

Engine: 2.4L Flat-4
Horsepower: 228 hp
Torque: 184 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Starting Price: $31,135

Co-developed with Subaru, the Toyota GR86 is built for enthusiasts who love an agile, driver-focused car. It comes with a naturally aspirated boxer engine, improved torque over its predecessor, and a low center of gravity for exceptional handling. If you want a well-balanced, affordable sports car with track-day potential, this is it.

3. Subaru BRZ – The GR86’s Twin with a Unique Touch

Engine: 2.4L Flat-4
Horsepower: 228 hp
Torque: 184 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Starting Price: $33,380

The Subaru BRZ shares nearly everything with the Toyota GR86, but offers its own tuning characteristics, suspension setup, and slightly different styling. Its predictable handling and high-revving engine make it one of the best budget-friendly performance cars available.

4. Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback – Classic Muscle with a Turbo Twist

Engine: 2.3L Turbocharged 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 310 hp
Torque: 350 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 10-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Starting Price: $33,515

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost proves that muscle cars don’t always need a V8. With a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the EcoBoost Mustang delivers impressive power, modern tech, and a classic American coupe experience. It’s a great choice for those who want performance without the fuel costs of a V8.

5. Nissan Z – Retro Styling with 400 HP

Engine: 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6
Horsepower: 400 hp
Torque: 350 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Starting Price: $44,110

The Nissan Z brings back the classic Z-car formula with modern refinements. Its twin-turbo V6 engine offers serious performance for the price, and its retro-inspired styling makes it one of the most eye-catching cars on the road.

6. Hyundai Elantra N – The Sleeper Performance Sedan

Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 276 hp
Torque: 289 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 8-speed dual-clutch automatic
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Starting Price: $35,445

For those who want a sports car that can double as a practical daily driver, the Hyundai Elantra N is an excellent choice. Its sharp handling, aggressive styling, and strong turbocharged engine make it one of the most fun front-wheel-drive cars on the market.

7. Volkswagen Golf GTI – The Hot Hatch Icon

Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 241 hp
Torque: 273 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Starting Price: $33,190

The Golf GTI has been setting the standard for hot hatches for decades. It combines punchy performance with everyday usability, offering a refined interior, strong turbocharged engine, and sharp handling.

8. Honda Civic Si – Affordable Sporty Sedan

Engine: 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 200 hp
Torque: 192 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Starting Price: $31,400

The Honda Civic Si continues to be one of the best performance bargains. While it may not have the most power, its engaging handling, precise manual gearbox, and everyday usability make it a great all-around sports car.

9. Subaru WRX – Turbocharged AWD Performance

Engine: 2.4L Turbocharged Boxer-4
Horsepower: 271 hp
Torque: 258 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual or CVT
Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
Starting Price: $33,855

The Subaru WRX is perfect for those who need all-wheel drive with their performance. Whether it’s rain, snow, or gravel, the WRX delivers rally-inspired fun.

10. Acura Integra – A Premium Throwback

Engine: 1.5L Turbocharged 4-cylinder
Horsepower: 200 hp
Torque: 192 lb-ft
Transmission: 6-speed manual or CVT
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Starting Price: $34,195

Reviving the legendary Integra nameplate, this Acura offers a mix of sporty performance and everyday comfort, making it a unique option in the affordable sports car segment.

These ten sports cars prove that you don’t need to spend six figures to have fun behind the wheel. Which one fits your driving style?