Cheap Sports Cars

When it comes to new cars to choose from this summer we want to look at some that have everyday practicality as well as the ability to be fast and fun whenever the need for speed arises. So we are going to take a look at some options when it comes to sporty cars that are under $30,000. Many of the vehicles listed are actually priced around $25,000 so there is room to add factory performance packages as well as aftermarket performance parts without going over the $30,000 budget. Each of the prices given is set by the factory starting price without the destination charge or taxes. And though what is listed won’t tell you the whole story about each vehicle it will at least give you some insight.

1. Chevrolet Camaro V6 – A large vehicle but a stellar 6-cylinder and a huge aftermarket following can give you a muscle car that can sip gas yet be fun when you put the hammer down.

323 hp
3,780 lbs
RWD
0-60 6.0 sec
$23,280

2. Dodge Challenger SXT- This is a large vehicle that is usually stuffed with an American V8 but with 305 hp for the Pentastar V6 you can still move as well as gain much better fuel economy.

305 hp
3,834 lbs
RWD
0-60 6.3 sec
$24,995

3. Ford Focus ST – New to the American market is this Turbo hatchback that offers versatility and handling. The FWD might turn off a few individuals but we recommend test driving first.

252 hp
3,223 lbs
FWD
0-60 – 6.0 sec
$24,495

4. Ford Mustang V6 - A top contender that offers “muscle car” looks as well as a 0-60 time faster than the original Shelby GT350. The refined V6 has power and handling in a relatively inexpensive package.

305 hp
3,401 lbs
RWD
0-60 5.3 sec
$22,200

5. Honda Civic Si – A staple for Honda and offers a big boost in torque helping to make for a much more spirited drive. If you need performance parts they are out there.

201 hp
2,877 lbs
FWD
0-60 in 6.3sec
$22,355

6. Hyundai Genesis Coupe Turbo – A refreshed face and a fun engine connected to a rear-wheel-drive platform makes this a tire shredder. The Hyundai warranty also can give you peace of mind when drifting.

274 hp
3,362 lbs
RWD
0-60 6.0 sec
$24,250

7. Mazda Mazdaspeed3 – Don’t let the bubbly look fool you, this is a rocket ship and handles like a champ. The Mazdaspeed3 can outrun many more expensive V8’s plus have room in the back to store your gear.

263 hp
3,281 lbs
FWD
0-60 5.1 sec
$24,000

8. Mazda MΧ-5 – This is a pedigree of track stardom and although it won’t win any races in a straight line it is absolutely brilliant around the bends.

167 hp
2,447 lbs
RWD
0-60 6.5 sec
$23,470

9. Mini Cooper S – Not a dragster but made for the corners, this is a street legal go kart that is nimble and ready to continually put a smile on your face.

181hp
2,679 lbs
FWD
0-60 6.6 sec
$25,300

10. Scion FR-S – A new comer but already brilliant, track refined and reliable and an aftermarket of products that looks to be huge. This is a driver’s car that can also get you 34mpg if you can keep from racing.

200 hp
2,758 lbs
RWD
0-60 6.2 sec
$24,930

11. Subaru BR-Z – Like the FR-S this shares nearly everything and looks to be a champ on the race track. There are already turbo-kits coming that can easily turn this into a 300hp car.

200 hp
2,762 lbs
RWD
0-60 6.3 sec
$25,495

12. Subaru WRX – My personal top pick because it can do just about everything and do it extremely well. Plenty of fun power connected to an AWD powertrain means you can drive in the snow with confidence.

265 hp
3,208 lbs
AWD
0-60 5.6 sec
$25,595

13. Volkswagen Golf GTI - Always a fun to drive car that can zip around corners as well save on fuel if need be. A little on the heavy side but it still moves.