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The Ford Mustang EcoBoost may not pack the pantomime that V8-powered GTs do, but it’s enough of a performance bargain to warrant serious consideration. Available in a coupe or convertible, Ford’s four-cylinder pony car tops iSeeCars’ list of the cheapest fast cars on the market. However, it doesn’t win by much, with vehicles like the Dodge Challenger SXT and Chevrolet Camaro nipping at its heels. Here are some of iSeeCars’ picks for the cheapest fast(ish) cars you can snag, new and used. 

  • Ford Mustang EcoBoost
  • Dodge Challenger SXT
  • Chevrolet Camaro
  • Subaru BRZ
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata

Is the Mustang EcoBoost fast?

It might not be able to match the acceleration of the Mustang GT, but the EcoBoost can still hit 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds. Acceleration like that is courtesy of its 310-horsepower 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. Better yet, the EcoBoost replaced the slower, less efficient V6 model in 2018 as the least expensive Mustang. You can snag a brand new EcoBoost for a starting cost of $28,865. 

The 2022 Ford Mustang EcoBoost marries affordability, performance, and efficiency better than the Dodge Challenger SXT and Chevrolet Camaro.
Ford Mustang | Ford

Which Dodge Challenger is the cheapest?

The Dodge Challenger SXT is the cheapest option in the 2022 lineup. A rear-wheel drive (RWD) SXT has a starting price of $32,025. However, with 303 horsepower and a curb weight of 3,858 lbs, it’s a bit more sluggish than the lighter, more powerful Mustang EcoBoost. According to iSeeCars, the SXT requires 5.3 seconds to hit 60 mph, which still earns it the number two spot on the fastest cheap cars list. 

Is the Chevrolet Camaro faster than a Ford Mustang EcoBoost?

Unfortunately for Chevy fans, the base model Camaro is a bit down on power to keep up with the Mustang EcoBoost. Compared to the EcoBoost’s 310 horsepower, the 2022 Chevrolet Camaro 1LT’s 275 horsepower is slightly anemic. Still, the Camaro is a bit cheaper than the Mustang. TrueCar says you can grab the keys to a 2022 Camaro 1LS for a starting price of $26,395. 

The Chevrolet Camaro fights the Ford Mustang EcoBoost for the helm of the list of the cheapest fast cars.
Chevrolet Camaro | General Motors

Is the Subaru BRZ faster than the Ford Mustang EcoBoost?

While the previous generation BRZ was fun, the 2022 Subaru BRZ is properly quick. In Car and Driver’s testing, the BRZ and its sibling, the Toyota GR86, hit sixty in just 5.4 seconds. However, the little coupe isn’t a straight-line racer. Instead, the BRZ is a back-to-basics driver’s car. With low weight, an optional manual transmission, and 228 horsepower, it’s a staple in affordable sports cars. 

Is the Mazda MX-5 fast?

OK, so the Mazda MX-5 Miata isn’t exactly fast. However, it is the last word in affordable roadsters. For a starting price of $28,715, you can get a soft-top Miata Sport and enjoy wide-open skies. However, with just 181 horsepower, it has the fewest ponies on this list. Still, with a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.7 seconds, it’s quick enough to have a good time. 

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