Edmunds: The best affordable performance cars

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There’s often a point when car enthusiasts are looking to purchase their first new performance car or sports car

There’s often a point when car enthusiasts are looking to purchase their first new performance car or sports car. Inflation and price creep have pushed many desirable models out of reach, but fortunately, a handful of automakers remain committed to offering thrill-making machines with wallet-friendly price tags. Edmunds’ car experts have rounded up six of the best with starting prices under $33,000. These vehicles have a high Edmunds rating and are listed by the manufacturer’s suggested retail price and include the destination charge.

MAZDA MX-5 MIATA

The Miata has long been the quintessential affordable convertible sports car thanks to its winning formula of rear-wheel drive, low weight and manageable power. The Miata’s 181-horsepower four-cylinder engine won’t impress your muscle car friends, but it’s good enough for a respectable 0 to 60 mph sprint of 6.4 seconds when Edmunds tested it.

In addition to being a smile-making machine, the Miata is fuel-efficient and has ample tech and a decent ride. But as you’d expect, it has a tight interior and a small trunk and lets in lots of wind noise with the convertible top up. If you’re not a fan of the soft top, consider the pricier RF hardtop model, though it will take you above $35,000.

Starting MSRP: $29,215

TOYOTA GR86 AND SUBARU BRZ

The GR86 and BRZ are essentially the same cars with subtle differences. These corporate twins are textbook examples of fun-to-drive sport coupes and share many of the Miata’s charming qualities. Compared to the Miata, they provide more passenger and cargo space. A more powerful 228-hp four-cylinder engine also helps these cars