Owning a sports car doesn’t always mean breaking the bank. Several automakers offer high-performance, stylish sports cars at an affordable price. If you’re looking for speed, agility, and fun behind the wheel without spending a fortune, here are the top five sports cars you can buy for under $30,000.

1. Mazda MX-5 Miata

• Price: Starting at $28,000
• Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, 181 horsepower
• 0-60 mph: 5.7 seconds

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the quintessential affordable sports car. Known for its lightweight design and responsive handling, it offers an engaging driving experience that’s hard to match at this price point. The Miata’s 50/50 weight distribution and rear-wheel drive provide precise cornering, while its open-top roadster design makes it a thrill to drive on sunny days. Despite its modest horsepower, the Miata’s quick acceleration and nimble feel make it a joy on both winding roads and city streets.

Pros:

• Excellent handling
• Convertible option
• Lightweight and nimble

Cons:

• Limited cargo space
• Not the most powerful engine in its class

2. Ford Mustang EcoBoost

• Price: Starting at $29,000
• Engine: 2.3-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 310 horsepower
• 0-60 mph: 5.0 seconds

The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car, and with the EcoBoost model, you can enjoy thrilling performance at a budget-friendly price. The turbocharged 2.3-liter engine delivers impressive power and quick acceleration. Plus, the Mustang offers a spacious interior and modern technology, making it a comfortable choice for daily driving or longer trips.

Pros:

• Strong acceleration
• Iconic design and presence
• Roomy cabin

Cons:

• Base model lacks some premium features
• Rear seats are cramped

3. Chevrolet Camaro

• Price: Starting at $27,795
• Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 275 horsepower
• 0-60 mph: 5.4 seconds

The Chevrolet Camaro is another classic American sports car with a lot of character. While the base model comes with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, it still delivers plenty of thrills, with 275 horsepower and impressive handling. The Camaro offers aggressive styling, sharp steering, and the option to upgrade to more powerful V6 or V8 engines down the road if you desire more power.

Pros:

• Sharp handling and strong performance
• Eye-catching design
• Highly customizable

Cons:

• Poor rear visibility
• Tight rear seating

4. Subaru BRZ

• Price: Starting at $28,595
• Engine: 2.4-liter flat-4 engine, 228 horsepower
• 0-60 mph: 6.0 seconds

The Subaru BRZ is a driver’s car built for enthusiasts who love the purity of rear-wheel-drive sports cars. With a low center of gravity, thanks to its flat-4 engine, the BRZ is renowned for its balanced handling and sharp cornering abilities. While it may not have the raw power of some competitors, its lightweight construction and superb chassis tuning make it one of the most engaging cars to drive under $30,000.

Pros:

• Outstanding handling
• Driver-focused interior
• Lightweight and balanced

Cons:

• Less powerful compared to rivals
• Limited rear seat space

5. Toyota GR86

• Price: Starting at $28,400
• Engine: 2.4-liter flat-4, 228 horsepower
• 0-60 mph: 6.1 seconds

The Toyota GR86 shares its platform with the Subaru BRZ, offering similar performance and driving dynamics. It’s an excellent entry-level sports car for those who prioritize handling and driver engagement over sheer speed. The 2.4-liter engine provides enough power to enjoy twisty roads, while the car’s lightweight design ensures a responsive, fun ride. For those seeking an affordable sports car experience, the GR86 hits the sweet spot.

Pros:

• Engaging driving experience
• Affordable price point
• Well-balanced chassis

Cons:

• Modest engine power
• Limited interior features

Conclusion

If you’re in the market for an affordable sports car under $30,000, each of these models provides a unique mix of performance, handling, and style. Whether you prefer the top-down thrill of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the muscle-car heritage of the Ford Mustang, or the track-focused fun of the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86, there’s a budget-friendly option for every driving enthusiast.