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Sports cars were seemingly on the decline, but in recent years that has changed. The resurgence of sports cars has brought many options to the table. But there are still plenty to choose from on the cheaper side of the spectrum. If you are stuck deciding which one to get, here are the top five choices under $40,000, according to Road&Track.

2022 Mazda Miata – $28,665

The Mazda MX-5, like the 2022 Chevy Camaro LT1 V6, is one of the most affordable sports cars on the market.
Mazda MX-5 | Mazda

Since its debut in 1990, enthusiasts have turned Miata into an acronym. Miata Is Always The Answer. For a good reason, too, as the two-seater, convertible sports car is known for bringing smiles and one of the best driving experiences on the market. The 2022 Mazda Miata is no different; starting just under $29,000, you get a responsive four-cylinder engine and manual transmission. The front engine, rear-wheel drive layout, and a 50/50 weight distribution make the 2022 Mazda Miata handle like a go-kart on the street. What’s not to love?

2023 Toyota GR86 – $28,995

2023 Toyota GR86 SolarShift
2023 Toyota GR86 | Toyota

With a decade of experience under its belt, the 2023 Toyota GR86 has brought a dedicated performance platform into the modern age. The lightweight coupe, with its rear-wheel drive layout, makes for an enjoyable car to toss around canyon roads and still drive to the store. In addition, a four-cylinder boxer engine keeps weight low, making the chassis even more agile. The 2022 model year brought the updated front and rear fascia, a new interior, and more displacement from the engine. More displacement puts the boxer engine at 228 horsepower, meaning plenty of grunt to power out of corners.

2022 Ford Mustang – $28,865

2022 Mustang Coupe
2022 Ford Mustang Coupe | Ford

The only shining light in Ford’s lineup, the Mustang has held strong as a sports car for the past 60 years. Although you won’t be able to get the V8 model of the 2022 Ford Mustang under $30,000, you can still grab the EcoBoost turbo four-cylinder. Even with half the cylinders, you won’t be disappointed. The EcoBoost cranks out 310 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Package that in a car weighing just over 3,500 lbs, and the 2022 Ford Mustang is a recipe for fun. The EcoBoost platform also has a large modification community, so if tinkering is your thing, this may be the one for you.

2023 Chevrolet Camaro – $26,395

2023 Chevrolet Camaro Gray
2023 Chevrolet Camaro | Chevrolet

Recent design changes have made us fall in love with the Camaro all over again. While you can’t get the 2022 Chevrolet Camaro with a V8 for under $30,000, much like the Mustang, opting for the turbo four-cylinder is not a bad decision. In addition, Chevy has made a point to make the new Camaro a balanced and fun handling sports car, whereas the previous generations have felt a bit sluggish in the handling department. Staying within the budget, you can also grab a few optional extras.

2022 Honda Civic Si – $28,315

2022 Honda Civic SI
2022 Honda Civic SI | Honda

For those who want a practical, reliable, and fun sedan, look no further than the 2022 Honda Civic Si. The Civic Si makes use of a 200-horsepower, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and a manual-only transmission. With the theme of the top trim sports cars being more outlandish than others, the Civic Si interior is a fun place to be on its own. Red stitching, red seat inserts, and red trim throughout remind you that you chose the right option for an otherwise standard family sedan. Although it is the only front-wheel drive car on this list, it still provides the same level of excitement when chucking it around a corner.

Best Sports Cars Under $30,000

Even though it may seem hard to find a deal on a new and exciting car these days, a handful of options are still available. Manufacturers are taking notice of the interest and providing more for the average enthusiast. If you’re looking for a new sports car, taking home one of the five from this list by Road&Track is a great place to start.

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