These sports cars offer a more satisfying driving experience compared to Ford’s Mustang GT, which boasts a 450-horsepower V8 engine.
The Ford Mustang, a legendary name in the automotive world, has undergone continuous evolution throughout its history. Today, the Mustang has transformed into a refined pony car, offering a range of engine options that cater to different preferences. These options include a 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine and a powerful V8 motor in the GT trim. While both trims deliver impressive performance, the GT variant stands out with its 140-horsepower advantage over the EcoBoost model.
The Mustang GT’s V8 engine delivers power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 10-speed automatic. Additionally, Ford offers an optional active exhaust system for the Mustang GT, providing it with a more commanding sound. However, despite these enhancements, there are several used sports cars available in the market that offer a more remarkable driving experience compared to the Mustang GT.
10. 2017 Fiat 124 Spider – $18,998
The Fiat 124 Spider, born out of a collaboration between Mazda and Fiat, shares its foundation with the MX-5 Miata but showcases distinctive Italian design elements and an Italian engine. This joint production resulted in a compact, lightweight, and spirited convertible sports car with a suspension that offers a more forgiving ride. In 2017, Fiat introduced the modern 124 Spider, enhancing its interior with improved materials and finishes compared to the Miata.
In addition to its design and suspension differences, the Fiat 124 Spider replaced the naturally aspirated engine of the Miata with a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine generating 160 horsepower. This engine is paired with the same 6-speed manual transmission found in the Miata’s third generation. Fiat also provides the option of a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 124 Spider’s engine delivers an exhilarating exhaust note and provides a satisfying level of power.
9. 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata – $23,253
Since its debut in 1989, the MX-5 Miata has established itself as an iconic sports car. With each generation, the Miata has continuously improved, delivering impressive performance and exceptional handling. Today, the MX-5 Miata stands as one of the most thrilling sports cars available. It competes effectively against rivals such as the Subaru BRZ and the Toyota GR86. One standout feature of the MX-5 Miata is its versatility, offering the choice between a retractable hardtop or a cloth top convertible, allowing drivers to enjoy an open-air driving experience in various weather conditions.
In 2019, Mazda made notable enhancements to the Miata by introducing a revised 4-cylinder engine across all models. This upgraded engine delivers a spirited performance, generating 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. Drivers have the choice between two transmission options: a 6-speed manual, which adds to the excitement and engagement of driving the MX-5 Miata, and an optional automatic transmission. The automatic transmission is designed with sporty programming and swift shifts, providing a dynamic driving experience for those who prefer an automatic gearbox.
8. 2020 BMW 2 Series Coupe – $24,650
The BMW 2 Series comes in two models: the 230i and the M240i. The 230i has a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 248 horsepower, while the M240i has a turbocharged inline-six engine with 335 horsepower. Both models provide a fun and exciting driving experience.
The 2020 BMW 2 Series models, including the 230i and M240i, are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Although a manual transmission option is not available, the coupe has received a visual refresh with updates to the taillights, exterior mirror caps, wheel designs, and grille frame. Additionally, rain-sensing windshield wipers are now included as a standard feature.
7. 2022 Toyota GR86 – $28,495
The GR86 is an affordable sports car known for its compact size, quick acceleration, and nimble handling. With its recent redesign, the GR86 features an improved interior, enhanced handling capabilities, and increased power. The car is a joy to drive, offering precise steering and agile performance. Toyota offers the GR86 with the choice of a manual or automatic transmission, catering to the preferences of both enthusiasts and everyday drivers.
Powering the GR86 is a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that delivers a satisfying balance of power and fuel efficiency. The engine produces a lively sound that adds to the driving experience. Alongside its forgiving suspension and razor-sharp handling, the GR86 offers a blend of performance and comfort, making it suitable for both exhilarating drives and everyday commuting. It strikes a great balance between being a thrilling sports car and a practical daily driver.
6. 2020 BMW 4 Series Coupe – $31,990
The BMW 4 Series lineup shares the same level of luxury and sophistication as its sedan counterpart, the 3 Series. With multiple variations available, including a two-door coupe, a two-door convertible, and a four-door Gran Coupe, the 4 Series offers a wide range of choices to suit different preferences. The two-door options, such as the 430i, 440i, and the high-performance M4, provide an exhilarating sports car experience. Even the base model, the BMW 430i, delivers impressive performance at an affordable price, thanks to its spirited 248 hp turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
The BMW 440i takes the performance up a notch with its turbocharged inline-six engine, delivering an impressive 320 horsepower. While rear-wheel drive is standard across all models, buyers have the option to equip their 4 Series with all-wheel drive for added traction. These engine choices provide ample power and acceleration, ensuring an engaging driving experience. BMW offers the 4 Series models with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission, although certain models may have the option of a 6-speed automatic transmission.
5. 2020 Audi S5 – $37,450
The 2020 Audi S5 builds upon the foundation of the A5 coupe, offering a sportier and more performance-oriented experience. It distinguishes itself with a more powerful turbocharged V6 engine that delivers impressive performance capabilities. Similar to the A5, the S5 is available in both coupe and convertible body styles. Inside, the S5 features a well-crafted interior with high-quality materials and luxurious amenities, such as massaging front seats, adding to the overall comfort and refinement of the vehicle.
In 2020, Audi introduced a refreshed design for the S5 lineup. The front end of the vehicle was updated with redesigned lighting elements, larger air intakes, and a revised grille, giving it a more assertive appearance. Changes were also made to the exhaust outlets, rear diffusers, and lower side sills, further enhancing the sporty aesthetics of the S5. Inside the cabin, the 2020 S5 received a new infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, providing an updated and user-friendly interface for controlling various vehicle functions and entertainment features.
4. 2020 Audi TT S – $39,500
The Audi TT is a renowned and iconic model in Audi’s lineup, offering a choice between a two-seat roadster and a stylish four-seat coupe. This compact sports car is known for its eye-catching design and exhilarating driving experience. With its elegant roofline and well-proportioned body, the Audi TT exudes a captivating and assertive presence on the road. Notably, all models of the Audi TT come equipped with standard all-wheel drive, providing enhanced stability and control in various driving conditions.
The Audi TT offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine as its base option, providing a spirited performance. However, for those seeking more power, the TT S variant takes things up a notch with a more potent version of the same engine, delivering an impressive 288 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This power is seamlessly transmitted to all four wheels through a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, utilizing Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel drive system. The TT S not only offers a smooth and comfortable ride but also excels in terms of responsive handling, ensuring an engaging driving experience.
3. 2018 Alfa Romeo 4C – $55,990
The Alfa Romeo 4C is a vehicle that strives to provide a nostalgic sports car experience within the contemporary automotive landscape. With its 2018 model, Alfa Romeo offers a driving experience that is unfiltered and unapologetic. Available as a coupe or a convertible, the 4C embodies the essence of a true Italian mid-engine sports car. While it may not be the most practical choice for daily driving, the 4C’s focus lies in delivering exceptional performance. When compared to the Mustang GT, the 4C excels on the track, showcasing its prowess in terms of handling and agility.
2. 2020 Chevrolet Corvette – $71,999
In 2020, Chevrolet made a significant leap with the introduction of the eighth-generation Corvette, also known as the C8. This model marked a significant departure from previous generations by adopting a mid-engine configuration, similar to prestigious sports cars from McLaren, Ferrari, and Lamborghini, but at a more accessible price point. The move to a mid-engine design allowed for enhanced performance and handling capabilities. The C8 Corvette was widely praised by enthusiasts and critics alike, earning the prestigious title of the 2020 North American Car of the Year. It showcased Chevrolet’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering an exhilarating driving experience at a more affordable price.
The 2020 Chevrolet Corvette was available in two body styles: a convertible with a retractable roof and a coupe with a removable roof panel. Both options allowed drivers to enjoy the thrill of open-air driving. Powering the Corvette was a potent 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering an impressive 490 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine ensured exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling driving experience.
1. 2019 Aston Martin Vantage – $89,998
