It’s safe to say most Ford Mustang owners have a need for speed. The Blue Oval automaker’s iconic pony car is renowned for its quickness. And the fastest model, the Mustang Shelby GT500, can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a blazing 3.3 seconds.

Though you won’t break the bank buying and maintaining a Mustang, they’re a bit pricier than, say, the average sedan. But if you’re looking for speed on a budget, don’t ignore the 2021 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback.

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback ranks among the fastest cars under $30,000

If you want speed, you’re going to pay for it. Snagging a Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 would set you back a cool $70,000. And that’s just for the base model. The Camaro Zl1 1LE (a competitor that’s arguably faster than the GT500, at least according to Car and Driver) will also cost that much. And that’s before you trick out either car with all the fancy accessories available.

But that’s not a price point everyone can afford. Some manufacturers have provided top-class speed in more affordable models for those of us with a need for speed and thriftiness. In these models, you might not hit GT500 heights. But if you need let’s-cut-this-vacation-road-trip-time-in-half speed, you can find a reasonably priced vehicle.

U.S. News recently published a roundup of this year’s 30 fastest cars under $30,000. And topping the list is the 2021 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback.

The 2021 Ford Mustang Ecoboost

The 2021 Ford Mustang Ecoboost Fastback is a bargain with a starting price of $26,670. With the standard four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission, this Mustang produces 330 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. The base-model EcoBoost is relatively spacious and includes a 4.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system and Wi-Fi hotspot.

An optional 10-speed automatic transmission as part of the Performance package can boost your Mustang’s speed even further by adjusting the rear axles and adding a limited-slip differential. Or you can add a 101A equipment package that upgrades the 4.2-inch touchscreen to an 8.0-inch one and adds 18-inch wheels and a drive mode controller for better handling under various conditions.

The Mustang EcoBoost Fastback is not only quick. It’s also safe. It earned a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And it comes with a bevy of advanced safety features, like automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. They offer peace of mind when you’re tearing up the highway.

Other speedy yet affordable cars

Aside from the Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback, several other notable cars boast first-class speed for less than $30,000, U.S. News reports. A little over $27,000 will get you a Chevy Camaro LT1 V6. It won’t beat the 1LE model, but it’ll get you 335 hp and 284 ft-lb of torque from a 3.6-liter V6. You can also get the standard six-speed manual transmission or upgrade to a 10-speed transmission without going over $30,000.

If you’re looking for an affordable, fast, and eco-friendly option, you might try a 2021 Mini Electric Hardtop. Also known as the Mini Cooper SE, this electric car can hit 60 mph in 7.0 seconds. With 181 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque, it’s a fast, powerful vehicle for $29,900. And there’s the Honda Civic Hatchback Touring, with a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 180 hp and plenty of oomph.

The list includes many other models suited to every preference and need. From hatchbacks to coupes, there’s a car that’ll give you thrills without busting your budget. But for the best bang for your buck, you’ll want to grab the 2021 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback.