Talking about rising prices can be a downer, especially for car enthusiasts. The reality is, car prices are climbing, wait times are long, and dealer markups can be frustrating. If you’re craving the thrill of a sports car without emptying your savings, you might be wondering if it’s even possible. The good news is, it absolutely is! While $50,000 is still a significant amount, in the world of sports cars, it’s a surprisingly accessible entry point. We’ve compiled a list of some of the coolest sports cars you can find in 2023 and 2024 for under $50k, including both brand-new models and some gems from the recent past that still pack a serious punch. These aren’t just budget options; they’re cars that deliver genuine driving excitement and head-turning style, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to experience the joy of a true sports car.
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10. 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Starting MSRP: $28,050
Red 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Image alt text: Vibrant red 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata roadster on display, highlighting its sleek design and open-top appeal as a fun, affordable sports car.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is an icon for good reason. It single-handedly revived the classic roadster formula, blending British soft-top charm with Japanese reliability and everyday usability. The current generation continues this legacy, offering pure, unadulterated driving pleasure at an incredible price. For under $50,000, you can easily snag a brand-new Miata, complete with a warranty and the latest features. If you dream of open-top motoring in a nimble and dependable sports car, the Miata is hard to beat.
Performance
| 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2.0L I4 |
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While not the quickest car on this list, the Miata’s charm lies in its balanced handling, lightweight feel, and engaging driving dynamics. It’s a car that rewards driver involvement and delivers smiles per mile without breaking the bank. Its affordability and low running costs make it a smart choice for those seeking a fun and reliable sports car experience.
9. 2023 Subaru BRZ
Starting MSRP: $28,595
2022 Subaru BRZ
Image alt text: Dynamic side view of a blue 2022 Subaru BRZ showcasing its sporty silhouette and rear-wheel-drive stance, emphasizing its reputation for agile handling.
The Subaru BRZ, co-developed with Toyota (and sharing much with the Toyota GR86), is renowned for its exceptional handling prowess. The previous generation was deliberately designed with tires that offered less grip, encouraging playful tail-out antics and enhancing the fun factor. While earlier models were sometimes criticized for lacking engine power, the latest BRZ addresses these concerns with a more potent engine and refined chassis. The result is a truly impressive and accessible sports car.
Performance
| 2023 Subaru BRZ 2.4L Boxer-4 |
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Beyond its sharp handling, the BRZ offers a surprisingly practical cabin for a compact sports car. It’s not overly cramped, making it suitable for weekend getaways and road trips. For the price, the BRZ delivers an unmatched blend of driving fun and everyday usability in the cool sports car category.
8. 2018 Nissan 370Z
Used Prices: $30,000
Three-quarter shot of 2019 Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition
Image alt text: Stylish three-quarter view of a 2019 Nissan 370Z Heritage Edition in bright yellow, highlighting its classic sports car lines and rear-wheel-drive proportions.
The Nissan 370Z offers a more traditional, old-school sports car experience. It delivers a raw, visceral feel that’s increasingly rare in modern cars. While it’s not the most technologically advanced or refined option, the 370Z compensates with a powerful V6 engine, rear-wheel drive, and a surprisingly spacious interior for its class.
Performance
| 2018 Nissan 370Z 3.7L V6 |
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The 370Z is a car for those who prioritize driving engagement and a direct connection to the machine. It may not have the most polished ride or the most luxurious interior, but its strong performance, distinctive styling, and relative simplicity make it appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate a more analog driving experience in a cool sports car.
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7. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette
Used Prices: $39,000
Red 2010 Chevrolet Corvette
Image alt text: Striking red 2010 Chevrolet Corvette coupe parked, showcasing its iconic American sports car design and powerful presence.
The 2012 C6 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray is an icon of American performance and a symbol of value. Historically, Corvettes have consistently delivered performance that rivals or surpasses much more expensive sports cars. While some cost-cutting measures were evident in areas like interior materials, the C6 Corvette prioritizes what truly matters: blistering speed and impressive handling at an accessible price point.
Performance
| 2012 Chevrolet Corvette 6.2L LS3 V8 |
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Unlike many older American muscle cars known for straight-line speed but lacking in corners, the C6 Corvette boasts independent rear suspension. This allows it to handle twisty roads with confidence and deliver a well-rounded performance experience, making it a true cool sports car bargain on the used market.
6. 2015 Porsche Cayman
Used Prices: $40,000-$50,000
Porsche Cayman
Image alt text: Sleek silver Porsche Cayman coupe parked, emphasizing its mid-engine sports car proportions and the Porsche badge as a symbol of performance and prestige.
Porsche is synonymous with sports cars, and the Cayman is a prime example of their engineering excellence. For under $50,000, you can find a 2015 Cayman with reasonable mileage, offering a taste of Porsche performance and handling without the 911 price tag. Many enthusiasts consider the Cayman to be the purest Porsche, thanks to its mid-engine layout which provides exceptional balance and agility.
Performance
| 2015 Porsche Cayman 2.7L Flat Six |
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The Cayman is all about driving thrills. It’s not the most luxurious or plush sports car, but it excels in delivering a connected and engaging driving experience. If you prioritize handling, precision, and the pure joy of driving, the Cayman is a top contender in the Cool Sports Cars Under 50k category.
5. 2020 Jaguar F-Type P300
Used Prices: $45,000
Blue Jaguar F-Type
Image alt text: Elegant blue Jaguar F-Type coupe on a winding road, highlighting its beautiful design and sporty yet luxurious character as a desirable sports car.
The Jaguar F-Type is a stunning blend of performance and British elegance. Its exterior is undeniably gorgeous, and the interior follows suit with a luxurious and driver-focused design. While the F-Type offers more than just outright performance, it’s still a capable and engaging sports car, especially in the P300 configuration which offers a balanced driving experience.
Performance
| 2020 Jaguar F-Type P300 2.0L Turbo I4 |
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The F-Type is ideal for those who want a sports car that’s both thrilling to drive and comfortable for cruising. It’s perfect for enjoying scenic drives on country roads while still offering the performance to inject excitement into your journey. It stands out as a sophisticated and cool sports car option.
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4. 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i
Used Prices: $45,000
2021 BMW Z4 on the road
Image alt text: Dynamic shot of a white 2021 BMW Z4 roadster in motion on a scenic road, emphasizing its sporty convertible design and luxurious road presence.
The BMW Z4 sDrive30i occupies a space between hardcore sports car and luxurious grand tourer. It elegantly balances sporty handling with a comfortable and refined ride. The Z4’s chassis and suspension are tuned for spirited driving, but it also prioritizes comfort, making it a great all-around convertible. The open-air driving experience further enhances its appeal for cruising around town or exploring winding roads.
Performance
| 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2.0L Turbo I4 |
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Despite its “sDrive30i” badge, the Z4 sDrive30i is powered by a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This engine, part of BMW’s B48 family, is known for its smooth power delivery and surprising tunability, making the Z4 a fun and capable cool sports car that offers a touch of luxury.
3. 2021 Toyota Supra
Used Prices: $50,000
Toyota Supra Matte White on the road
Image alt text: Matte white 2021 Toyota Supra driving on a coastal highway, showcasing its iconic design and performance heritage as a legendary sports car.
The revival of the Toyota Supra was met with initial controversy due to its collaboration with BMW. However, the partnership brought with it access to BMW’s exceptional engineering, particularly their inline-six engines. The 2021 Supra utilizes BMW’s B58 engine, a powerplant renowned for its smooth power, responsiveness, and tuning potential.
Performance
| 2021 Toyota Supra 3.0L Turbo I6 |
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Like the legendary 2JZ engine of its predecessor, the B58 in the new Supra is highly tunable, allowing owners to extract even more performance. The Supra also handles superbly and features a fantastic ZF 8-speed transmission. The new Supra is a well-rounded cool sports car, ideal as a daily driver that transforms into a weekend thrill machine.
2. 2000 996 Porsche 911 Turbo
Used Prices: $50,000
Porsche 996 Turbo front three-quarter shot
Image alt text: Front three-quarter view of a silver Porsche 996 Turbo, highlighting its wide body and iconic 911 silhouette, representing a powerful and classic sports car.
The 996 generation Porsche 911 Turbo is more than just a sports car; it’s a performance icon. Initially less appreciated than other 911 generations, the 996 Turbo is now gaining recognition as a performance bargain. It offers immense power, classic 911 handling characteristics (which can be demanding but rewarding), and significant tuning potential.
Performance
| 2000 996 Porsche 911 Turbo 3.6L Turbo H6 |
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While the interior of a 2000 model understandably lacks modern technology, the driving experience of the 996 Turbo is timeless. These were once considered bargains, but prices are rising. Finding a good example for $50,000 may require some searching, but securing a 996 Turbo provides access to a truly exceptional and appreciating cool sports car, though be mindful of Porsche maintenance costs.
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1. 2022 Audi S3
Used Prices: $50,000
Blue Audi S3
Image alt text: Sleek blue 2022 Audi S3 sedan parked in an urban setting, showcasing its sporty yet practical design as a versatile cool sports car.
The Audi S3 tops this list as the most versatile cool sports car under $50k. It’s perfect for those needing a fast and sporty vehicle that can also handle daily family duties and challenging weather conditions. The S3 delivers impressive power and engaging handling, making it a genuinely fun sports car. Its Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional grip and stability, making it capable in all seasons, from summer to winter.
Performance
| 2022 Audi S3 2.0L Turbo I4 |
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Audi engines are well-known for their tuning potential, and the 2.0-liter in the S3 is no exception. It can readily handle power upgrades, offering even more performance for those seeking extra thrills. The Audi S3 is a fantastic all-rounder, blending performance, practicality, and all-weather capability into one cool sports car package.
