Which Sports Cars Can You Actually Afford Today

Affording a vehicle today is on everyone’s mind. With new vehicle prices, monthly payments, and insurance costs rising, it’s hard to imagine ever reaching the dream of owning that special car you’ve had your eye on. A sports car is indeed a special vehicle to own. Some may argue that it is the ultimate dream car – one with agility, performance, and the license to have fun on any road you take it on. The question becomes, are there any sports cars you can still afford today? 

Yes, there are. The website Top Speed compiled some of them for us. 

At the top of everyone’s list is the Mazda MX-5 Miata. When it was introduced for the 1990 model year, Mazda brought back the soul of the small, lightweight roadsters from the post-World War II era while adding some modern conveniences and engineering. Over four generations, that formula continues. The MX-5 Miata usually weighs around 2,300-2,600 pounds, depending on specifications. However, with just 150-181 horsepower underneath the hood and a standard manual gearbox, you get the sensation of speed and excitement every time you get behind the wheel of one. Most of them come with a soft convertible top, but some also have retractable hardtops.  

On the list are the results of a collaboration between Toyota and Subaru. Over two generations, it went by many names – BRZ, FR-S, 86, GR86 – yet it was light, with a horizontally opposed engine up front and rear-wheel drive. The result is linear balance in a 2+2 coupe that is favored by motorsports enthusiasts. Most will come with the manual gearbox, which sports car drivers prefer.  

Honda always built sporty cars that follow the same idea as above – light in weight, manual transmissions, and a rev-happy engine. The Civic Si fits that bill. Versions of the Civic Si date back to the third generation of this compact car in the mid-1980s. That badge was worn on two-door body styles with a larger engine than standard under their hoods. They are also very affordable to maintain and reliable, both of which are expectations when looking at a Honda. 

Keeping the idea of improving performance in a lightweight car, you should consider the MINI 2-door Hardtop. Back in 1959, the original MINI revolutionized automotive design and engineering. Since its rebirth in 2002 by BMW, that same principle has remained on a modern scale, while retaining a lower center of gravity, exciting engines, manual transmissions on older-generation models, and go-kart-like handling.  

In the same vein, the Volkswagen Golf GTI often appears in this list. This year marks the 50th anniversary of its introduction in Germany; it first arrived on our shores in 1982. Since then, it has set the benchmark for every “hot hatch” since. The practical hatchback turns into a GTI by dropping a more powerful engine, a manual gearbox, a tuned suspension, and more. The result is what enthusiasts have been telling everyone – if you love cars, you should at least drive one at some point in your life.  

If it is an American sports car you want, the Ford Mustang is a good choice. Normally, when you think of this original pony car, you think of V8 muscle. You will be surprised when you drive one with the EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Sometimes equipped with a manual transmission, it delivers efficiency but exciting performance. They also come in a two-door fastback coupe or convertible.  

While all of them come with a manual transmission, you can also get one with an automatic transmission. In several cases, you may find that driving with just two pedals can be as exciting as having a third one for the clutch.  

And if these vehicles are used, they would be a great, affordable choice for living out your dream of owning something sporty. Alderman Automotive may just have something for you that fits in your budget. Contact us to see if we have a sports car in our inventory that fits your needs soon!