Sports cars offer some of the most exciting and dynamic driving experiences of all vehicles. From quick acceleration to precise cornering and handling, these vehicles embody automotive excellence and are designed for driving enthusiasts.
Some sports cars can cost an arm and a leg and are unattainable for the average American driver in this economy. Thankfully, several major automakers produce affordable sports cars for drivers who want to experience sports car thrills without breaking the bank.
Spending less on a sports car than the market rate doesn’t always mean settling for an inferior vehicle. The Miata nameplate has been delivering premium sports car experiences to drivers since its 1989 debut.
The 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata starts at just $29,830 for the Sport base model. Drivers can also upgrade to the Club trim for under $35K ($33,330), to add a sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein dampers and a Bose nine-speaker audio system.
Japanese automaker Mazda’s MX-5 Miata is a convertible roadster with peppy acceleration. It’s “one of the lightest new cars on sale” at 2,450 pounds, says Road&Track. This makes its handling and manueverability a cut above many competitors.
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Honda’s best-selling models are practical cars and SUVs like the Honda Civic and CR-V. That said, the automaker is still capable of producing performance-oriented sports cars. The Civic Si sedan is a sporty manual sports car version of one one the most popular sedans on the market.
The 2025 Honda Civic Si starts at $30,250. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and turbocharged engine to give the Civic a sportier feel. The Civic Si also includes sport front seats and a sport-tuned suspension to provide sharper cornering and reduce body roll.
Unlike many models on our list, the Civic Si is a four-door sedan, so it offers more practicality than typical sports cars. On the other hand, it still produces the engaging driving dynamics needed to qualify as a real-deal sports car.
Ford’s base Mustang coupe made it on a list of cheapest sports cars by Kelley Blue Book, and it earns a spot on our list as well for a few reasons. Many may see the Mustang as a muscle car, but the coupe certainly fits the sports car bill as well when it comes to size and performance.
The 2025 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Fastback starts at just $31,920. Its mighty turbocharged four-cylinder engine’s power output (350 pound-feet of torque) is reason enough for some drivers to get one.
Ford’s Mustang EcoBoost Fastback allows drivers to experience a true Blue Oval Mustang without breaking the bank. Decades after its 1964 debut, it’s still a major contender in its segment.
The Toyota GR86 is the cheapest sports car in the Japanese automaker’s portfolio. Jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, the GR86 is a minimalist take on the modern sports car. It produces plenty of power for its size and pleasant engine grumbles galore.
The 2025 Toyota GR86 starts at $30,400 for the base model. The Premium trim ($33,000) also starts under $35,000 and adds features like blind-spot detection and two-stage heated sport seats.
Toyota’s affordable sports car is a blast to drive, based on USA TODAY’s testing experience. Additionally, it has a strong value proposition because of its driving dynamics and incredibly low price.
Subaru’s site says that the BRZ is “designed for drivers”, and its hard to argue with that claim considering its track record. It’s known for putting driving enjoyment above all else in terms of strengths, features and capabilities.
The 2025 Subaur BRZ starts at $33,210. A close cousin ton the GR86, the BRZ embodies the same driver-centric sports car spirit.
Subaru’s affordable sports car may seem barebones, but that’s by design. Its mighty four-cylinder engine and great driving dynamics make up for any interior material shortcomings or lack of rear seat space.
If you’re in search of a new sports car under $35,000 in 2025, there are plenty of great options within your budget. From American icons like the Mustang to Japanese sports car staples like the Miata, there’s no shortage of amazing automobiles to choose from.

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