9 Seriously Affordable Cars Built for the Track
Not all sporty-looking cars are built to handle a racetrack. Some affordable gems are designed for speed, precision, and cornering. These cars deliver both daily-driving comfort and track-ready performance. Perfect for enthusiasts, they provide fun, style, and practicality. All prices are average used prices according to Classic.com over the last five years. Every car on this list costs under $20,000, making them the best cheap sports cars for track days.
1. 2004 Pontiac GTO – Average Price: $18,995
The Pontiac GTO is a muscle car legend that returned in the early 2000s. It has a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine producing massive torque to the rear wheels. Drivers can choose a six-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission. The GTO accelerates to 60 MPH in 5.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 159 MPH. The 2006 model upgraded to a 6.0-liter LS2 V8, offering higher performance at a slightly higher price. This makes it one of the best affordable muscle cars for track enthusiasts.
2. 1995 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution III – Average Price: $18,847
The EVO III is a rally-bred, agile sports car. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers 266 horsepower to all four wheels through a five-speed manual. It reaches 60 MPH in just 4.9 seconds. Lightweight and responsive, the EVO III is one of the most sought-after affordable track cars for enthusiasts who want raw performance and cornering precision.
3. First-Gen Subaru BRZ (Toyota GT86) – Average Price: $17,442
The Subaru BRZ combines balance, agility, and everyday usability. Its 2.0-liter flat-four engine produces 200-205 horsepower and powers the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. With a 53/47 weight distribution, it hits 60 MPH in just over six seconds and reaches a top speed of 143 MPH. The BRZ offers a fun and precise driving experience on both road and track.
4. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata NC – Average Price: $16,435
The NC Miata is lightweight and well-balanced. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 167 horsepower to the rear wheels. The car accelerates to 60 MPH in 6.4 seconds and has a top speed of 140 MPH. With excellent handling and a power-retractable hardtop, the MX-5 Miata is perfect for track days, autocross, and spirited road drives.
5. 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI – Average Price: $16,862
The 2008 WRX STI is a rally-inspired all-wheel-drive sports car. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine produces 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed manual, it sprints to 60 MPH in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 155 MPH. Features like the Driver-Controlled Center Differential make it a serious affordable performance car for track enthusiasts.
6. 2005 Nissan 350Z – Average Price: $16,020
The 350Z is a classic rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 300 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The car accelerates to 60 MPH in 5.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 172 MPH. Brembo brakes, a rigid chassis, and a limited-slip differential make the 350Z perfect for both track and street driving.
7. 2003 Acura RSX Type S – Average Price: $12,106
The RSX Type S is a front-wheel-drive hot hatch with a 2.0-liter VTEC engine. It produces 200 horsepower and 142 lb-ft of torque, sent through a six-speed manual transmission. The car reaches 60 MPH in 6.8 seconds and has a top speed of 144 MPH. Redlining at 8,100 rpm, the RSX Type S is agile, responsive, and track-ready for a budget-friendly price.
8. 2007 Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk5 – Average Price: $10,316
The Golf GTI is a tunable hot hatch. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates to 60 MPH in 6.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 150 MPH. With tight suspension and excellent brakes, the GTI is one of the best affordable performance hatchbacks for both street and track use.
9. 2006 Mazda RX-8 – Average Price: $8,820
The RX-8 features a 1.3-liter Renesis rotary engine producing 212 horsepower and 159 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual or automatic. It reaches 60 MPH in 6.2 seconds and has a top speed of 154 MPH. Known for its near-perfect weight distribution and precise handling, the RX-8 is a true track-focused sports car at an affordable price.
