Sports cars are the pinnacle of driving pleasure, engineered to deliver exhilarating performance and handling. Unlike some luxury vehicles that compromise agility for comfort, sports cars prioritize the driving experience above all else. While the dream of an exotic, high-priced sports car is alluring, the reality is that incredible performance can be found within a more accessible budget.
For enthusiasts looking to maximize driving thrills without emptying their wallets, the $50,000 price point opens up a world of fantastic options. While stretching to the upper limit of this range might mean foregoing some luxury features, opting for models slightly below offers the flexibility to personalize your ride and still experience exceptional performance.
The sports car landscape is diverse, with each region bringing its unique flavor to performance engineering. This curated list of the 10 best sports cars under $50,000 showcases a global collection of machines designed to ignite your passion for driving.
Subaru BRZ / Toyota GR86 – Starting at $25,395
Japan made a significant impact on the sports car scene in the late 80s and early 90s with iconic models. Today, the spirit of accessible, analog performance lives on through the co-developed Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 (formerly Toyota 86). These rear-wheel-drive coupes are modern classics, delivering pure driving enjoyment in a contemporary package.
The BRZ/GR86 duo is celebrated for its exceptional balance, razor-sharp steering, and a low center of gravity, creating an incredibly engaging driving experience. While some may desire more than the 200-horsepower engine, the focus here is on accessible and responsive performance. These cars are perfect for both novice enthusiasts seeking an entry into the world of sports cars and seasoned drivers who appreciate the purity of analog driving. Notably, the BRZ and GR86 are among the most budget-friendly sports cars available, offering incredible value with the GR86 starting slightly less than the BRZ.
Subaru WRX STI – Starting at $34,695
Who says a sports car must be a two-door coupe? The Subaru WRX STI has consistently challenged this notion, outperforming many traditional two-door sports cars in both its sedan and hatchback forms. Redesigned in recent years, the WRX STI stays true to its rally-racing DNA while delivering exhilarating performance on paved roads.
Under the hood, the WRX STI boasts a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing a robust 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. Power is channeled through a 6-speed manual transmission and Subaru’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, complete with three mechanical differentials for superior grip and control.
Few cars can match the WRX STI’s blistering straight-line speed, and even fewer can keep pace with it in cornering prowess. The WRX STI offers supercar-level performance at a price point significantly below our $50,000 limit, making it an exceptional value for performance enthusiasts.
Mazda MX-5 Miata – Starting at $25,000
The Mazda MX-5 Miata may not have the raw power of some competitors, but it undeniably earns its place among the best sports cars under $50,000. Its winning formula combines a spirited engine with go-kart-like handling, creating an unmatched fun-to-drive experience. Mazda, a company that prides itself on being a team of enthusiasts building cars for fellow enthusiasts, truly understands the art of crafting nimble and engaging vehicles.
The MX-5 Miata Sport features a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers 155 horsepower, perfectly matched to its lightweight chassis. Drivers can choose between a slick-shifting 6-speed manual or a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. With an attractive starting price, the Miata delivers accessible thrills to a wide range of drivers, making it a perennial favorite for those seeking pure driving joy.
Cadillac ATS Coupe – Starting at $37,995
The Cadillac ATS Coupe represents modern American luxury with a performance edge. It confidently secures its spot on this list of top sports cars under $50,000 with its striking design, energetic powertrains, and a chassis that sets a benchmark in its class. The ATS Coupe is a genuine performance machine wrapped in sophisticated styling.
Starting under $40,000, the ATS Coupe is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 272 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque. For those craving more power, a 335-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 is available. Paired with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission and Cadillac’s acclaimed Magnetic Ride Control suspension, the ATS Coupe directly challenges its established German rivals in terms of driving dynamics and refinement.
Ford Mustang GT – Starting at $32,395
When it comes to sheer horsepower per dollar, it’s hard to beat an American muscle car, and the Ford Mustang GT is at the forefront of this category. With its iconic retro-inspired design, a potent 435-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 engine, a comfortable interior, and the ability to effortlessly produce tire-smoking burnouts, the Mustang GT makes a bold statement.
While historically known for straight-line speed, the latest generation Mustang GT has evolved into a well-rounded sports car. Its independent rear suspension enhances handling and cornering capabilities. Choose between a 6-speed manual or an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, engage launch control, and experience rapid acceleration, reaching 60 mph in approximately 4.4 seconds. The Mustang GT delivers exhilarating performance and iconic style at a starting price that keeps it well within the $50,000 budget, even with performance-enhancing options.
Chevrolet Camaro SS – Starting at $37,295
The Chevrolet Camaro SS, the long-standing rival to the Mustang, was completely redesigned, introducing a new platform, look, interior, and engine. Like the Mustang, the Camaro SS is a serious performance contender across all driving scenarios, particularly on the racetrack. Its inclusion on a list of the best sports cars under $50,000 is well-deserved, especially considering its track performance that rivals even higher-priced European sports cars.
Powering the Camaro SS is Chevrolet’s formidable LT1 V8 engine, generating 455 horsepower. This power is managed by either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic gearbox. While a turbocharged 4-cylinder version of the Camaro is available, the V8 provides an unmatched auditory and visceral experience that defines the muscle car spirit. The Camaro SS offers thrilling V8 performance and track-ready capability at a competitive starting price.
Audi TT – Starting at $42,900
Representing German engineering on our list of best sports cars under $50,000 is the Audi TT. Freshly redesigned, the Audi TT boasts a striking and aggressive aesthetic. Its exterior is characterized by sharp LED headlights, defined body lines, and stylish wheel designs. Inside, the TT offers a refined cabin with supple leather and cutting-edge vehicle technology.
Beneath its stylish skin, the Audi TT features Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system and a responsive 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. In the TT configuration, this engine produces 220 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, delivered through a quick-shifting 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Audi TT delivers a blend of sophisticated design, advanced technology, and engaging performance within the specified budget.
Audi S4 – Starting at $49,200
Audi makes another appearance on our list with the S4 sport sedan. While the current S4 might be considered slightly more subdued compared to its supercharged or V8 predecessors, its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 still packs a significant punch, delivering 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. Complementing this power is Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, providing exceptional grip and stability, even during high-speed cornering.
Audi S4 buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed dual-clutch automated manual gearbox, with an optional torque-vectoring rear differential available for enhanced handling. The S4 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 4.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The Audi S4 offers a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and practicality, fitting just under our $50,000 limit.
BMW M235i (Now BMW M240i) – Starting at $44,150
A list of the best sports cars under $50,000 wouldn’t be complete without a BMW. While BMW prices have steadily risen, the 2 Series, specifically the M235i (now succeeded by the M240i), remains an excellent value for performance enthusiasts. While the 2 Series range starts at a lower price point, the M Performance variant offers a significant step up in power and driving dynamics.
With a potent 330 lb-ft of torque delivered through either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic gearbox, the M235i (M240i) accelerates to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. Available in both coupe and convertible body styles, it provides a taste of BMW’s renowned driving experience. The M235i’s starting price makes it an attractive option within our budget, though careful optioning is advised to stay within the $50,000 limit.
Volkswagen Golf R – Starting at $35,650
Rounding out our list of the 10 best sports cars under $50,000 is a hatchback: the Volkswagen Golf R. This isn’t just any hatchback; the Golf R is an all-wheel-drive, turbocharged performance machine that offers both practicality and exhilarating driving dynamics. While the VW GTI is the benchmark for hot hatchbacks, the “R” designation signifies a significant power increase, boasting 292 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
Volkswagen utilizes a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission to efficiently distribute power to all four wheels, providing the Golf R with impressive traction for rapid acceleration and confident handling. Similar to the Subaru WRX STI, the Golf R offers exceptional performance for the money, making it a compelling choice for those seeking versatility and driving thrills in a practical package.
These ten sports cars demonstrate that exhilarating performance and driving enjoyment are attainable without exceeding a $50,000 budget. From nimble roadsters to powerful muscle cars and versatile hatchbacks, this list offers a diverse range of options to satisfy any driving enthusiast looking for the best sports car under 50k. Explore these models further to find the perfect match for your driving style and preferences.
