10 Cheapest Sports Cars in 2026

by Nick Kurczewski |
2026 Toyota GR86
2026 Toyota GR86 / Credit: Toyota

We’ve compiled a list of 10 sports cars that provide a maximum amount of driving excitement for a minimal outlay of your hard-earned cash. Each one has lots of style, plenty of power, sharp handling, plus a starting price that makes them much more affordable than you might have imagined. Remember, some of the cars included in this list have been around for a few years. This means you can find excellent deals and plenty of bargains by searching our extensive Used Car Listings.

How We Rank Vehicles


1. 2026 Ford Mustang • $29,015

2026 Ford Mustang EcoBoost
2026 Ford Mustang EcoBoost / Credit: Ford
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 6.3 out of 10

  • Pros: Lively powertrains, keen handling, smooth ride, more cargo room than rival sports cars

  • Cons: Tight backseat, expensive top trim

The last of the pony cars, the Ford Mustang is still available with a tremendous V8 engine and a manual transmission. The car’s punchy powertrains and sporty handling result in an enjoyable driving experience. Small rear seats, poor interior materials, and lofty pricing don’t hurt its overall appeal.

Ford Mustang ReviewFord Mustang For Sale


2. 2026 Mazda Miata • $30,430

2025 Mazda Miata
2026 Mazda Miata / Credit: Mazda
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 8.7 out of 10

  • Pros: Outstanding gas mileage, enjoyable handling, comfortable ride

  • Cons: Tight trunk, small cabin

With its accessible pricing and peppy driving dynamics, the Miata is excellent for drivers seeking an engaging sports car that won't break the bank. It's not the most practical choice, though; it has a tiny trunk and just two seats.

Mazda Miata ReviewMazda Miata For Sale


3. 2026 Toyota GR86 • $32,395

2026 Toyota GR86
2026 Toyota GR86 / Credit: Toyota
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 8.6 out of 10

  • Pros: Lively performance, eager engine, comfortable seats

  • Cons: Subpar rearward visibility, road noise at highway speed

As a sports car that puts handling and driver enjoyment above all else, the Toyota GR86 is one of the last of its kind on sale. The GR86 brings engaging driving dynamics to the masses with an affordable price tag at the expense of engine performance.

Toyota GR86 ReviewToyota GR86 For Sale


4. 2026 Subaru BRZ • $35,860

2025 Subaru BRZ
2026 Subaru BRZ / Credit: Subaru
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 7.2 out of 10

  • Pros: Keen handling, eager acceleration

  • Cons: Tight backseat, limited trunk space

There aren’t many sports cars that are as fun to drive or as affordable as the Subaru BRZ. Sharp steering, a standard manual transmission, and RWD make the BRZ a true driver’s car. It’s not the most powerful sports car, and its cabin has some low-quality materials.

Subaru BRZ ReviewSubaru BRZ For Sale


5. 2026 BMW 2 Series Coupe • $41,700

2026 BMW 230i Coupe
2026 BMW 230i Coupe / Credit: BMW
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 8.1 out of 10

  • Pros: Athletic handling, dynamic turbocharged engines, advanced tech features

  • Cons: Cramped backseat, limited cargo capacity, stiff ride quality

The BMW 2 Series may be the smallest and cheapest coupe in BMW’s lineup, but it’s one of the most enjoyable to drive. Refined handling, peppy engines, and RWD provide a pure driving experience. Limited passenger and cargo space make it less versatile than sedans in the segment.

BMW 2 Series ReviewBMW 2 Series For Sale


6. 2026 Nissan Z • $42,970

2026 Nissan Z
2026 Nissan Z / Credit: Nissan
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 6.6 out of 10

  • Pros: Eager acceleration, enjoyable handling, comfortable ride

  • Cons: Rivals have sportier performance, not much cargo room

One of the few Japanese sports cars available, the Nissan Z has enjoyable handling, retro styling, and a punchy V6 engine. In the competitive segment, the Z fails to rival segment leaders with a dated chassis that stops it from feeling as sharp around corners.

Nissan Z ReviewNissan Z For Sale


7. 2026 BMW 430i • $53,300

2026 BMW 4 Series / Photo Credit: BMW
2026 BMW 4 Series / Credit: BMW
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 8.5 of 10

  • Pros: Peppy acceleration, engaging handling, generous cargo room in Gran Coupe models

  • Cons: Coupes and convertibles have tight backseats, vague steering

The BMW 4 Series strikes the right balance between comfort and engagement. It delivers exceptional acceleration while remaining comfortable enough to glide over bumps and ruts without jolting the cabin. This BMW offers substantial cargo room. Coupes have 15.5 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Grand Coupe provides a generous 16.6 cubic feet of cargo room behind the backseat. There are some drawbacks to consider: This car’s steering is a bit vague, and backseat legroom is tight in coupes and convertibles.

BMW 4 Series ReviewBMW 4 Series For Sale


8. 2026 BMW Z4 sDrive30i • $53,600

2026 BMW Z4
2026 BMW Z4 / Credit: BMW
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 9.4 of 10

  • Pros: Capable engines, comfortable ride, posh cabin

  • Cons: Rivals have sportier handling, not much in-cabin storage

The Z4 isn't as sporty as some rivals in its class, but it fits the bill if you're looking for a luxury sports car that emphasizes poshness and comfort.

BMW Z4 ReviewBMW Z4 For Sale


9. 2026 Toyota GR Supra • $57,500

2026 Toyota Supra Front
2026 Toyota Supra / Credit: Toyota
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 8.4 out of 10

  • Pros: Affordable price, quick acceleration, numerous standard features, stylish interior

  • Cons: Tight cabin, subpar outward visibility

Like many sports cars, the Toyota GR Supra has a somewhat cramped cabin. It compensates for that, however, with lively acceleration and a comfortable ride. The GR Supra offers a surprisingly plush interior design, showcasing handsome styling and upscale materials.

Toyota Supra ReviewToyota Supra For Sale


10. 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLE • $59,550

2026 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé
2026 Mercedes-Benz CLE Coupé / Credit: Mercedes-Benz
  • Carfax Expert Rating: 8.0 out of 10

  • Pros: Sleek exterior, desirable standard features, stout powertrains

  • Cons: Steep price, rivals offer livelier handling

Mercedes-Benz has dropped most of its coupe and convertible models and introduced the CLE to take their place. One of the few luxury coupes available, the CLE’s stylish design, premium cabin, and brisk acceleration make it worth the high cost of admission. The BMW 4 Series is its sole rival.

Mercedes-Benz CLE ReviewMercedes-Benz CLE For Sale


Vehicle prices may vary based on location and market conditions. Please contact your local dealer for the most up-to-date pricing.

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