An entry-level sports car may be the perfect choice for drivers who want a fun, sporty, and engaging driving experience. Hot hatchbacks provide handling and presence comparable to those of this class for around the same price. They provide a similar driving experience found in more expensive sports cars. These cars can also be used daily due to their low price tags.
Despite their lack of practicality, these cars are still enjoyable to drive, since they don't need to worry about running them a lot, unlike their more expensive counterparts. Additionally, they can be left in car parks without being worried, and servicing and maintenance are more affordable, resulting in reduced anxiety throughout the entire ownership experience.
These entry-level cars are now featuring advanced technologies from higher-end sports cars, so they represent excellent value for money and feature a high degree of reliability.
With its excellent handling and value, the Mazda Mx-5 Miata has been around for decades. The current model is the fourth generation, and one of its best. Since 1989, the car has evolved and changed but maintained its original ethos at the same time. With a starting price of $28,665, the car is affordable. Its fastest model is the 2.0-liter GT Sport Tech, producing 187 horsepower.
The Porsche 718 Cayman is an entry-level model, yet it is still a Porsche. This means Porsche has been thorough in its testing, and it would not compromise its reputation to sell a low-quality product. With its turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four engine, the 718 Cayman produces 300 horsepower. The Cayman S has a larger, 2.5-liter flat-four engine that makes 350 horsepower. Like all Porsche models, interior quality is outstanding.
With a downsized 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine, the Mustang has long been associated with V8 muscle power. Ecoboost, which originated in the Ford Focus, produces 330 hp. Power delivery is linear across the rev range thanks to a large turbocharger with minimal lag. Fastbacks or coupes as they may be thought, retail for $28,000, while convertibles sell for $33,000. With 200 pounds lighter weight than the V8, the Ecoboost is more nimble and handles better.
Sports cars are Toyota's most popular. It was originally called the Celica Supra when it was released in 1978. In its fifth incarnation, this co-developed vehicle is available for a little over $43,000. It is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 254 hp and 295 lb-ft.
Audi's TT sports car is unquestionably one of the most recognizable sports cars ever made. First released in 1998, now in its third generation, the TT has consistently sold well for Audi. With the 40 TFSI engine, it provides good performance whilst remaining relatively frugal, despite showing its age. It was last remodeled in 2014. It can go from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds and has 197 horsepower.
Lotus' Emira is its first new model in almost 10 years. It has a V6 engine as well as an AMG-derived 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, the same engine used on the Mercedes AMG A45. This vehicle will reach 60 mph in just under 4.5 seconds with 360 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. It is predicted to reach a top speed of 170 mph. Unlike some of their cars of old, Lotus has invested heavily in interior comfort and refinement.
A rear-wheel-drive setup and great handling are just some of the features of Toyota's new 2022 GR86. Starting at just $29,000, this second-generation car is an exceptional value. When the six-speed manual gearbox is selected, the car offers a 0-60 mph time of just 6.3 seconds with a 228-horsepower, 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine.
French manufacturer Alpine reinvented the Alpine A110 in 2017. It was a popular and successful rally car produced from 1963 to 1977. Unfortunately, the A110 cannot be purchased in North America for the equivalent of $57,000. As a result of its mid-engine configuration and evenly distributed weight, the car handles well. With a turbocharged, 1.8-liter engine, the GT version rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. It returns 32.6 mpg while remaining fuel-efficient.
The bargain Chevrolet Camaro retails for just $26,395, making it one of the cheapest options on our list. Although it has limited visibility and cramped rear seats, its looks more than compensate. As an alternative to the Mustang Ecoboost, the car features a muscle car design that will appeal to some buyers. With 275 horsepower and a six-speed manual transmission, the base engine ensures an engaging drive.
The BMW Z4 is now in its third generation and is closely related to the Toyota Supra, another car on our list. The previous-generation car had a folding metal hardtop but now has a more traditional fabric top. A turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, sDrive30i, produces 255 horsepower and can reach 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds, very impressive for an entry-level model. EPA ratings for the Z4 indicate excellent fuel economy, 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
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