Cars have traditionally served practical purposes, particularly for fast transportation. However, it didn’t take long for car manufacturers to begin designing certain models with sporting performance in mind, rather than merely for commuting.
This shift eventually gave rise to the modern sports car. Built for aesthetics, speed, handling, or a mix of the three, sports cars prioritize fun over practicality.
As the least practical vehicle type, they also tend to be among the most desirable and enjoyable to drive.
Sports cars frequently dominate the headlines of automotive magazines and feature prominently in videos on the subject, sparking desire for some of the most exclusive cars in the world.
However, these cars often come with a hefty price tag. Building cars that emphasize power and speed is more expensive, and demand for them is much lower than for more practical vehicles, like family cars.
While the list of 2024 sports cars is extensive, the pool narrows when considering affordable options.
With many affordable cars today starting around the $40,000 mark, here is a rundown of some of the best options that won’t drain your wallet.
1. 2024 Toyota GR86
Originally introduced to the United States as the Scion FR-S from 2013 to 2016, the model that evolved into the Toyota GR86 remains on the market in 2024.
When it first debuted, it demonstrated that Toyota was still capable of crafting cars designed for driving pleasure, instead of just the reliable, utilitarian vehicles the company was known for.
During its initial run, Jeremy Clarkson praised the car on Top Gear, highlighting its nearly flawless performance.
For the 2024 model, Toyota maintains the same winning formula for the GR86, making only minimal changes since the first version’s release over a decade ago.
While it now includes modern features like touchscreens and driver-assist technologies, the Subaru-sourced and Toyota-tuned 2.4-liter boxer engine remains at its core.
The horsepower has increased to 228, and an available performance package further enhances the driving experience. The GR86 isn’t designed for drag racing, but it excels at local autocross events.
Whether you’re looking for spirited drives or track-day fun, the GR86 offers a well-rounded sports car experience, built with affordability and Toyota’s renowned reliability in mind.
2. 2024 Nissan Z
The Nissan Z series has been an iconic staple for the company since the days when they bore the Datsun badge.
From its early days, the Z cars were known for offering more performance than expected for their price, a tradition the new model continues to uphold.
The latest release, the 2024 Nissan Z, brings thrilling handling and performance typical of a higher-class vehicle, though the gap between the Z and more expensive options has narrowed considerably.
For 2024, the Nissan Z debuted in a long-awaited update, replacing the 370Z that had remained largely unchanged from 2009 to 2022.
This new model draws significant design inspiration from the original 240Z, echoing its headlights, hood lines, and rear hatch shape.
This homage to its roots results in a sleek, attractive design that’s complemented by powerful performance and agile handling.
Under the hood, the Z is a far cry from its early roots, featuring a twin-turbo V6 engine that produces 400 horsepower, sending power to the rear wheels.
With a starting price of $42,310, it occupies the higher end of the affordable sports car spectrum but still offers strong value compared to some German competitors that command far higher prices.
3. 2024 Mazda MX-5
Mazda has been crafting its beloved sports car for nearly 35 years, and it shows no signs of slowing down.
Inspired by classic British roadsters, the Mazda MX-5 revived the two-seater sports car segment when it was first introduced in 1989.
Featuring the quintessential formula of two seats, no roof, a small, efficient 4-cylinder engine in the front, and rear-wheel drive, the MX-5 offered an affordable way to enjoy driving fun without focusing on practicality.
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 carries on this legacy by keeping things simple. The current generation is approaching its 10th year in production, but its sleek, lightweight design continues to stand the test of time.
Powered by a 2.0-liter engine, the MX-5 produces 181 horsepower, and while this won’t make it the fastest car on the drag strip, it ensures an exhilarating driving experience on winding country roads.
With a 50:50 weight distribution, every turn feels tight and precise. Starting around $30,000, while there are cheaper options available, few will deliver as much driving enjoyment.
4. 2024 Honda Civic Type R
First introduced in 1973, the Honda Civic quickly became known as the best Japan had to offer in terms of small, affordable, and reliable transportation.
Over the years, millions have come to rely on their Civics to reliably transport them to various destinations with a reasonable level of comfort.
Today, the Civic has evolved in almost every imaginable way but continues to offer the same dependability that made it successful initially.
Although Civics are typically known for being small, practical, and affordable, Honda has also delivered the unmistakably sporty Civic Type R for those who crave speed.
A glance at the latest Honda Civic Type R immediately reveals that it is designed with speed in mind.
The distinctive and prominent rear wing sits high above the rear hatch, while the glossy red Brembo brake calipers peek through the aggressive five-spoke alloy wheels.
Beneath the hood, the car is powered by a 2.0-liter engine featuring Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing system, coupled with turbocharged forced induction to deliver 315 horsepower.
This surge of power will undoubtedly propel this compact car quickly off the line, and its advanced dual-axis front and multi-link rear suspension ensures it stays stable through tight corners.
Enhancing the driving experience is a six-speed manual transmission with rev-matching, as well as Honda’s LogR Datalogger, making this car ready for track fun or competition.
Starting at $44,795, the Civic Type R has already earned accolades such as being named one of the 10 Best by Car and Driver and Top Rated by Edmunds, which adds to its value.
5. 2024 Chevrolet Camaro
In recent years, some of the most talked-about Camaro models have included high-performance versions like the 650-horsepower ZL1 and the extreme 1100-horsepower 2023 Yenko Camaro.
However, these powerful beasts come with price tags nearing the $100,000 mark, which puts them far beyond the realm of affordability for most car buyers.
Thankfully, Camaro enthusiasts can still enjoy the iconic muscle car without breaking the bank, as the base V6 model is available at a more accessible price of $32,495.
For roughly the same cost as many new compact crossovers, the base 1LT Camaro features a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 335 horsepower, enhanced by variable valve timing and direct injection.
Considering that the fastest and most prestigious Z/28 model from just two decades ago barely reached this power level, the 1LT is an appealing option for those looking to experience sporty performance without spending a fortune.
First introduced in 1967, the Chevrolet Camaro has become a symbol of American muscle cars, enduring numerous changes and delivering various high-performance special editions throughout the years.
After being discontinued in 2002, the Camaro made a comeback in 2010 with a modern redesign that has lasted until today.
However, 2024 marks the final year for this generation, so if you’ve been considering a budget-friendly Chevrolet pony car, now is the time to act.
6. 2024 Subaru BRZ
After discussing the Toyota GT86, it almost feels redundant to mention the Subaru BRZ, given that they are essentially the same car with different badges.
However, the Subaru BRZ is still worth considering as it offers another affordable sports car option for potential buyers.
Both the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86 are manufactured in the same factory and share the same 2.4-liter boxer engine sourced from Subaru.
While the exterior designs are not identical, the differences are subtle, and the interiors are only slightly different. There are a few reasons to choose the Subaru BRZ over its Toyota counterpart.
The BRZ’s suspension is tuned slightly differently, offering a more stable, planted driving experience that reduces the likelihood of the car’s tail swinging out in tight corners.
This makes it a preferable option for drivers who prioritize a more controlled, serious driving experience over flashy handling.
Additionally, Subaru generally stocks more BRZ models with manual transmissions than Toyota does with the GT86, and Subaru offers a better system for custom orders, avoiding the pressure of buying a car directly off the lot.
Moreover, BRZ models are typically less likely to have added dealer markups. With a starting price of $30,195, the Subaru BRZ remains a solid and affordable choice for those seeking fun driving without the hefty price tag.
7. 2024 Ford Mustang
For those seeking the coolest new Mustang from Ford in 2024, the phenomenal Mustang GTD might be the first choice. However, with a price tag of around $300,000, it is hardly a car for those on a budget.
While undeniably impressive, it’s not feasible for most car buyers. For those of us who need to stick to a more affordable option, the base-model Mustang is still an excellent choice, and that’s far from a bad thing.
The entry-level Mustang is powered by a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder engine. While it might seem underwhelming for Ford’s flagship pony car, the EcoBoost turbocharged engine delivers an impressive 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque.
This means that you’ll still have plenty of power to burn rubber as you see fit. Compared to the Mustang II, which also offered a 2.3-liter 4-cylinder back in the ’70s but only produced a mere 88 horsepower, the new Mustang is an extraordinary leap forward.
Whereas the old version struggled to reach 60 mph, the new model hits the mark in just 4.5 seconds.
Ford also offers a performance package for the EcoBoost Mustang, which adds Brembo brakes, a Torsen limited-slip differential, and other enhancements.
Even though it’s the base model, the Mustang is still a thrilling ride. And with a starting price of $32,515, you won’t be stretching your budget too far.
8. 2024 Toyota GR Corolla
Much like the Civic, Toyota’s Corolla has been a reliable small car for more than five decades and continues to be a popular choice.
Although Toyota has traditionally designed the Corolla as a practical, economical vehicle, the company recently spiced things up by introducing a high-powered version, thanks to the expertise of Gazoo Racing, Toyota’s performance division.
Using the Corolla’s five-door hatchback as its foundation, the GR Corolla is transformed into a performance powerhouse with a 300-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine and multi-mode all-wheel-drive.
Despite its small 1.6-liter displacement, this turbocharged engine employs both port and direct fuel injection, along with an inter-cooled turbocharger, to produce remarkable power, making it a quintessential modern hot hatch and a highly desirable option.
True to Toyota’s reputation, the GR Corolla also offers exceptional build quality and reliability. For those who want an even more track-focused version, the Morizo Edition eliminates unnecessary features to reduce weight and optimize performance.
However, for those who prefer to keep practical features such as passenger seats, the GR Corolla is available starting at approximately $44,000.
9. 2024 Subaru WRX
For decades, Subaru has been known for its standard all-wheel-drive systems, which have made the brand especially popular among outdoor enthusiasts and in northern regions.
While all-wheel drive offers superior traction on slippery surfaces, it also provides an advantage on dry pavement.
This allows vehicles that excel in a straight line to also handle corners with precision. Subaru embraced this concept years ago with the WRX, a performance model that continues to impress in 2024.
Based on the Impreza sedan, the WRX boosts its 182-horsepower 2.5-liter boxer engine to 271 horsepower with the addition of a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with direct injection.
The WRX is available with a six-speed manual transmission, but for those who prefer an automatic, Subaru offers a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which Car and Driver reports is quicker by a tenth of a second.
Regardless of your transmission choice, the WRX’s all-wheel-drive system ensures it remains stable and agile through tight corners, providing a planted and confident ride.
Subaru has made a name for itself with high-quality, well-built cars, and this WRX continues that tradition, offering premium features at a competitive price.
Starting at $33,855, the WRX delivers impressive performance in a premium package for thousands less than many competitors.
10. 2024 Volkswagen Golf R
Volkswagen is often credited with creating the hot hatch segment when it released the original Golf GTI in 1976. That formula has continued to evolve, leading to the creation of the current-generation Volkswagen Golf R.
The 2024 Golf R delivers a combination of exhilarating performance and advanced technology.
Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with direct injection, it sends power through Volkswagen’s dual-clutch transmission and to all four wheels via 4Motion all-wheel-drive.
While a six-speed manual is available, the Golf R’s DCT offers faster shifts, allowing it to reach 60 mph in less than 4 seconds, as reported by Car and Driver.
Inside, the Golf R boasts a well-appointed interior with excellent build quality, typical of late-model Volkswagens.
The bucket seats are thickly bolstered to keep you firmly in place, while the dashboard features vivid screens complemented by multi-colored LED lighting, creating an exciting and high-tech driving experience.
Once known for offering the best value in economy cars, Volkswagen has shifted to a more upmarket direction with the Golf R.
The starting price of $44,640 could rise above $50,000 with additional options and dealer markups, but once you get behind the wheel, you’ll likely agree that it’s money well spent.