Having a sports car encapsulates many people’s description of an ultimate dream. The most exhilarating driving adventures may only be achieved by driving one of these automobiles.
Sports cars are about optimizing performance at all times, whereas luxury automobiles frequently make compromises when it comes to weight, handling, and precision. It is, however, feasible to combine both qualities, although doing so has a price premium.
We may not all be able to purchase sports cars that cost $80,000, but if one works hard and save, we may find some excellent performance vehicles and sports cars under 50k dollars. Customers will have to make due without extra features in cars priced just under the $50,000 threshold, but these less expensive versions allow an opportunity for customization.
1. Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86
With automobiles like the Acura NSX and Toyota Supra, Japan rapidly entered the sports car market in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Today, there are very few traditional performance cars available. Thankfully, the jointly created Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86 offers vintage rear-wheel drive pleasure in a modern package.
The BRZ/86 has a low center of gravity, excellent balance, and precise steering. Although some people might think the 200-horsepower engine to be insufficient, practical performance should not be overlooked.
The vehicle is a wonderful entry point for fledgling enthusiasts and a glorious flashback for drivers who prefer the old-fashioned world. The BRZ/86 is one of the least expensive vehicles on this list, costing $25,395 for the BRZ and $95 less for the 86.
2. Subaru WRX STI
Customers that purchase Subaru WRX STI vehicles do not want to compromise on performance, quality, or maintenance expenses. With a maximum output of 310 horsepower and a 0-60 pace of 4.6 seconds, this is faster than swift and more durable than an Audi.
In its 4-door and 5-door body designs, Subaru’s WRX STI has recently outperformed some of the fastest 2-door sports cars. The Subaru WRX STI was recently revamped in 2015 and maintains its rally-bred background while being capable of crushing up whatever paved road you put in front of it.
A 2.5-liter 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 305 horsepower and 290 Ib-ft of torque powers the WRX STI. The single accessible drivetrain is Subaru’s fantastic all-wheel drive system with three mechanical differentials, and the only available transmission is a 6-speed.
Although the basic rally formula hasn’t changed in the more than 20 years that Subaru has been producing these consumer rally cars, they have improved the concept to the point that it’s difficult to imagine another car that offers the same pricing and performance.
Few vehicles can equal a Subaru WRX STI’s acceleration in a straight line, and even fewer can do so in a bend. The 2016 Subaru WRX STI is also hundreds of dollars under our $50,000 cap, costing $36,995.
3. Mazda MX-5 Miata
Although we are aware that it is the most popular sports car ever produced, Mazda has really outdone itself this time. To help the rider accelerate more quickly, Mazda has added 181 horsepower to its already super-light package for 2020.
The Japanese automaker, which sees itself as a group of enthusiasts developing vehicles for other enthusiasts, is well-versed in the art of designing agile, appealing vehicles.
Test results showed that the little roadster could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a snappy 5.7 seconds. If it’s any comfort to you to know, that is useful acceleration that you can enjoy on typical public roads.
In terms of value for money in 2020, Mazda offers a ton thanks to its extensive powertrain warranty, 36-38 mpg, ample room for you, your significant other, and some weekend equipment.
4. Cadillac ATS Coupe
The Cadillac ATS Coupe is an exemplary icon of contemporary luxury in America. This is also how it appears on this list of the top 10 sports cars under $50,000. The ATS Coupe is a true-performance car thanks to its gorgeous design and spirited powertrains.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder in the ATS Coupe, has a starting price of just $37,995, and produces 272 horsepower and 285 Ib-ft of torque. Most people will find that to be more than enough power, but those who feel a craving for speed will choose the 335-horsepower, 3.6- liter V6 that costs $47,750.
The ATS challenges its foreign rivals with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission and GM’s renowned Magnetic Ride Control.
5. Ford Mustang GT
A 2020 Ford Mustang GT, which comes with 460 horsepower and a fantastically equipped package, is available for around $5,000 cheaper than the Camaro. An American muscle car, especially the Ford Mustang GT, is among the best in the world in terms of horsepower per dollar.
The Mustang GT is anything but quiet with its classic look, 435 horsepower, 5.0-liter V8 engine, plush interior, and capacity for burnouts that span football fields.
Since its debut in the 1960s, the Mustang has been the most flamboyant pony car of the gang. The Mustang has managed to produce more power than the Camaro 2SS while weighing less, despite having to contend with safety rules and the outrageous horsepower war that is always present today.
Although prospective buyers of sports cars may still believe the Mustang excels in straight-line driving, its new independent rear suspension is designed to handle turns with ease. Engage launch control, select either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission, and accelerate quickly—in only 4.4 seconds—to 60 mph.
The Ford Mustang GT starts at $32,395 but quickly rises to a $40k price tag if performance upgrades are included.
6. Audi S4
The most important, most distinguished, most affluent prodigy in the automobile industry has delivered yet another luxury sedan. Yes, the 2016 S4 is a little less ferocious than its supercharged V8 forerunners, but its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 does still have 333 horsepower and 325 Ib-ft of torque to spare.
Its Quattro all-wheel drive system is equally astonishing because it keeps a vice-like hold on the ground even while turning at a high speed.
You put in a lot of effort, so why not reward yourself with a high-class sedan that can crush just about everything on the road right now? Customers who purchase an Audi S4 have a choice between a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic manual gearbox with a torque-vectoring rear differential option.
The S4 can reach 155 mph with an electronic governor in under 4.7 seconds from Oto 60 mph. At $49,200, the S4 just about falls under our $50,000 price cap.
7. Volkswagen Golf R
The Volkswagen Golf R is a unique hatchback with all-wheel drive, a turbocharged engine, and a grin-inducing design. Although the VW GTI is the industry benchmark for sporty hatchbacks, this Golf’s “R” badge denotes an additional 72 horsepower for a total of 292 horsepower and 280 Ib-ft of torque.
This quick hatchback has a top speed of 167 mph, is highly stable, has been tested on the Autobahn, and is a fantastic option for people who don’t really want to sacrifice anything other than repair costs.
Volkswagen distributes power to all four wheels via a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, providing the Golf R plenty of grip for quick acceleration and superb handling. The Golf R starts at a moderate $35,650, giving you a lot of performance for your money, just like the Subaru WRX STI.
The closest thing to having one’s cake and eating it too is the 2020 Volkswagen Golf R.
8. BMW M235i
BMWs are a must-have on any list of the top sports cars under $50,000, but with the Bavarian automaker’s costs steadily rising, our alternatives are becoming more and more limited.
The 2 Series model, and notably the M235i, is the best value. Despite the fact that a 2 Series can be purchased for as little as $32,000, if you’re prepared to spend more, you may ride in the 320-horsepower range-topper M performance vehicle.
The M235i can go from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds and is available in both coupe and convertible body types. It has a respectable 330 Ib-ft of torque that is channeled through either a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic gearbox. When selecting those options, keep in mind that the M235i has a sticker price of $44,150.
9. Audi TT
On our list of the top 10 sports cars under $50,000, we have a few worthy candidates from the land of brew and sausage. The Audi TT has recently undergone a facelift for 2016, and its aggressive style is breathtaking to look at.
The TT’s exterior features sharp LED headlights, body contours, and wheel designs, but its interior is lined with plush leather and some of the most cutting-edge automotive technologies.
The renowned Quattro all-wheel drive system and tenacious 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder motor from Audi should not be underestimated. In the TT, a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is available, producing 220 horsepower and 258 Ib-ft of torque. Although the entire package will cost you $42,900, being cool isn’t cheap after all.
10. Chevrolet Camaro SS
Like the Ford Mustang, the Chevrolet Camaro SS is a strong contender when it comes to performance vehicles, especially on the racetrack. There are several reasons why it belongs on a list of the top 10 sports cars under $50,000, but the fact that it outperforms the BMW M4 on a racetrack alone should cause some controversy.
Chevy’s LT1 V8 engine, which generates 455 horsepower and can be paired to either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission, powers the Camaro SS. Although the Camaro is available with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, a V8 engine is preferable because it has an even louder roar. The price for the Camaro SS is $37,295.
11. Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody
With a 6.4 Liter Hemi V8 and 485 buffed horsepower, the Dodge Challenger R/T has the most power of these sports cars under $50,000 and owns every bit of it, clocking a 0-60 time of 4.3 seconds and a 1/4-mile time in the mid-12s.
The Dodge is now slightly more maneuverable in turns to increased chassis dynamics, but it is still unquestionably the purest example of a muscle car.
It looks insane, produces a great noise, and has considerably more power than one person could need. Choose the 2020 Dodge Challenger R/T Widebody Scat Pack if you want a pure, unfiltered muscle car attitude
Conclusion
Because the top vehicles and components aren’t always simple to locate online, it’s easy to run out of options when hunting for the best sports cars under $50,000. Fear not, we can help you locate the top sports cars for under $50,000. A multitude of websites offers a wide range of costs and options.
To locate the top Sports Cars Under 50k online, you’ll need to look a little further than the typical websites. Sporty cars offer the most thrilling driving experience. Sports cars prioritize performance above all else, but luxury automobiles frequently trade off weight, handling, and precision for performance. It is occasionally possible to combine both qualities, but it costs money.