Best sporty cars under 20k?
Posted by 30U8_s@reddit | askcarguys | View on Reddit | 248 comments
Preferably looking for something that has paddle shifters, if it doesn’t its fine, just want a lil rocket.
Posted by 30U8_s@reddit | askcarguys | View on Reddit | 248 comments
Preferably looking for something that has paddle shifters, if it doesn’t its fine, just want a lil rocket.
anticheat77077@reddit
As much fun as a miata is, you will want more power, especially if you are looking for a rocket. A miata is quick, superb handling but it's slow. I own 3. With a budget up to 20k, wanting a rocket, don't even bother looking at other options... Go buy a Corvette.
Dense-Initiative7462@reddit
Thought so too but have driven a 2019 nd2 Miata manual (or newer) with the higher rev line. If you know to get the shifts right it’s no slug.
Ducking_Funts@reddit
Audi TT-S Quattro or a Corvette.
hopelesscase789@reddit
Yeah I have an mk2 TTS with a stage 2 tune. It looks great and is very nippy.
hippee-engineer@reddit
What does stage 2 mean for your car?
hopelesscase789@reddit
Well it's technically stage 2+ but stages are mostly marketing.
Stage 2 would be a downpipe and tune at the least. An intake and intercooler will help push figures up.
Stage 2+ just adds a high pressure fuel pump, which allows for a bit more power but most notably torque.
hippee-engineer@reddit
Does the stage 2+ fuel pump allow you to run more boost?
hopelesscase789@reddit
From my very limited understanding, it just allows the engine to use more fuel for more power.
I don't claim to be very knowledgeable though lol
hippee-engineer@reddit
Yeah. The reason I ask is because if your fuel pump alone is holding you back from making more power, that means you’re running lean as fuck and you’re likely to blow up the engine.
If the fuel pump allows you to tune the turbos to push more air/boost through the engine, then it’ll make you more power once you tune it to make more boost.
Hope that makes sense.
hopelesscase789@reddit
Whatever it is, it was done by a reputable tuner who's been tuning vag vehicles for 10s of years.. so I think it's unlikely to blow up. It's also very conservative for stage 2+ figures. Although that may be because I didn't upgrade the intercooler or intake. I have a panel filter as the TTS stock airbox is supposed to be sufficient.
hippee-engineer@reddit
Everything that has to do with heat transfer should be upgraded before trying for big power. Intercooler, oil cooler, radiator, all should be upgraded. The factory stuff is only sufficient for the heat output of the factory stuff, and the cooler you can keep the oil, the longer it’ll last and the less wear and tear on the turbo.
I had a fiesta ST that I kept stock, save for the radiator and oil cooler. The oil color when I changed it at 10k miles was still golden. Cool oil(150f) is so much better for turbo life compared to 200f oil.
hopelesscase789@reddit
The intercooler and intake is particularly good on the TTS. The tuning company wouldn't have done the package without it, if wasn't safe.
Unless you're doing track days, in which case an intercooler is certainly needed. On hot days, the car may not run at full power... But it's not unsafe.
hippee-engineer@reddit
I had a single hot day in July running the car around the streets of Denver, and it was like 105*f and the engine started overheating, just because it was so hot and I was ragging on it a bit. Had the racing rad and oil cooler installed, and never had the issue again.
There’s a big difference between what’s safe and what will add wear and tear over time. Cool that oil and charged air off as much as you can.
hopelesscase789@reddit
Okay.
Thanks for the advice man.
hippee-engineer@reddit
Welcome. Enjoy the game.
thatdodgyboi@reddit
Good luck finding a Corvette under 20k rn
Purplestreak360@reddit
2 and 1/2 years ago I bout a 2001 C5 Corvette. 6 speed manual, targa top, and heads up display. I paid 13k for it with 149k miles. It wasn't perfect and I've done A LOT of work to it. It all depends on your tolerance for pain and abilities with a wrench.
RamenWrestler@reddit
There's tons. Any C5 worth getting is under $20k and really really clean C4's can be had around $10k
howtodragyourtrainin@reddit
Depends on the generation, year, and mileage. Very doable, but you may not get a cream puff.
Jiggs7777@reddit
Only downside is parts usually cost a lot more for most sport cars.
FL-Orange@reddit
An Audi under 20K is a scary thought for the wallet.
KingWolfsburg@reddit
That's just the origination fee... that monthly parts subscription is where they get ya!
Old_Crow_Yukon@reddit
OEM parts only -_-
hopelesscase789@reddit
My MK2 TTS hasn't used much oil at all.
And in Europe , repair prices aren't too bad. Yes they're more than your standard small engine car, but they aren't awful.
Beekatiebee@reddit
For under 20k you're looking at a Mk2, which is an absolutely horrible idea unless you're also an Audi mechanic.
The 2.0T was nightmarish for its early years. If you can get a VR6 you'll be okay until you gotta do the timing chain.
Ducking_Funts@reddit
It’s just a Golf R with an aluminum chassis. I know of at least 10 people with mk6/mk7 and none of them have had any real problems. A close friend used to track his TT-S 2.0 and it was perfect till he sold it with about 50-60k. I have read about the problems, but never seen anyone I know with them.
Beekatiebee@reddit
Forgive me, I forgot that some models of Mk2 still used the EA113 2.0, which is a decent engine.
Any Mk2 TT that had the EA888 though should be avoided. The early EA888's are the problem engines. Defective piston rings causing engine failure, faulty timing chain tensioners, and so much more. This engine is the subject of multiple class action lawsuits.
TicTwitch@reddit
It's a meme for a reason: 20k will get you a decent spec Miata, which is arguably one of the funnest 'slow' cars you can drive fast which is perfect depending on where you live.
VW stuff is fine too but be mindful of the drivetrain since most of them are FWD, which will change how it drives and pulls through corners compared to a RWD/AWD.
Which brings me to my next point: little Audis like the A3/A4 (still a VW ofc) can be V fun and generally come with AWD Quattro systems unless specified otherwise (pretty rare these days) and somewhat recent specimens can be had if you keep an eye out.
Happy hunting!
AnnonymousRedditor86@reddit
This. The answer is Miata. It's always Miata.
If you want more power, the S2000. But, if you haven't owned a sportscar . . . Miata.
718cs@reddit
I don’t understand why anyone is recommending anything other than a Miata. For 20k you can get an older Miata and pump it full of upgrades and have a fast car cheap
hippee-engineer@reddit
You can find a Miata with all those upgrade for less than the $20k you’d spend for an intact one.
AnnonymousRedditor86@reddit
Always Miata. Just a great car. Unless you need to haul people.
idk012@reddit
Mid life crisis, get a Miata and drive from San Diego to artic circle.
atsevoN@reddit
Tbh I don’t get the hype with the MX5.
firewoodrack@reddit
Fun, slow, convertible, agile, reliable, cheap, rwd
dr_blasto@reddit
Or just get an older boxster. Less slow but does all the Miata stuff too.
BvilleBuds@reddit
IMS bearing is why I went Miata
dr_blasto@reddit
Just get a 2009+ and have no worries.
carbogan@reddit
For under 20k?
dr_blasto@reddit
For a 987.2 or newer? Probably not. But the maintenance/reliability of 987.1 boxsters is overblown and there are plenty of them under $20k
carbogan@reddit
I mean I paid $10k for my nc miata. I’d rather have 2 of them over one Boxster.
atsevoN@reddit
True. Massive maintenance costs though
atsevoN@reddit
Eh, rather have a MK2 MR2. I don’t even think the MX5s are good looking. Convertible is a negative imo. East to break into
cakefaice1@reddit
Miata’s have kinda a cringe cult following behind them. They’re really not that agile from the factory and ridiculously slow. Reliability is thrown out the window from the large amounts of people who beat the shit out of them and install shitty eBay parts.
For $20k I’d rather take my chances with a boomer owned Corvette or a Mustang Terminator.
atsevoN@reddit
I did think it was funny when reliability was mentioned, the earlier ones rusted and were falling apart 5th ears after they were built, everytime I walk by an MX5 I look at the arches or the doors and just thing damn. They’re all crusty.
carbogan@reddit
That’s why you buy a nc or nd. More modern mx5s are better. It’s the na and nb that have the weird cult following, even tho the nb doesn’t even have pop up.
atsevoN@reddit
They’re ridiculously ugly though, I do like the looks of the older MX5s white a lot, the newer ones though just look like any other generic car you see on the road now. If you slapped a BMW badge on it I wouldn’t know any difference. The nice things about 90s-early 2000s cars is that they all have aged rather well and are easily identifiable and stand out
carbogan@reddit
Not really. I own a nc and I think they look alright. Few small mods help. Sure not as nice as a s2000 or maybe even a z4, but I only paid 10k for it as opposed to 30k for a s2000 or z4.
It’s a 2L, 6 speed manual with factory lsd. You won’t find that in a cheaper package. Even crappy old auto Silvia’s are 20-30k worth these days.
atsevoN@reddit
Where do u live? S2000 here is like 8k. Could just buy a 350z for 5k and be done with jt
carbogan@reddit
New Zealand. So I’m talking nzd as well.
Sure a 350z is in the same sort of price bracket, but honestly they don’t drive as well. Sure they may be a little faster on the straights, but they’re not as good around corners, they’re too heavy, and we have plenty of windy roads in NZ. On top of that your maintenance is more expensive on a 350z, bigger tyres and brakes, and honestly the vq35 isn’t exactly known as a reliable engine.
carbogan@reddit
Say you have never driven a miata without saying you have never driven a miata.
atsevoN@reddit
No I haven’t, we don’t have them in the UK, but we do have the MX5.
carbogan@reddit
Same thing nunpty.
atsevoN@reddit
Absolutely not you numpty*
carbogan@reddit
What do you mean? A mx5 is a miata. Mazda only ever called them miatas in America. Literally everywhere else in the world they’re called mx5s.
atsevoN@reddit
I’m just joking
AnnonymousRedditor86@reddit
It's not for the looks. It's performance. Best car under 80mph. Go visit a local SCCA autox and watch the Miata Mafia. They will beat the Vettes half the time.
atsevoN@reddit
My 2013 Kia Proceed GT at 204bhp has better performance than an MX5
AnnonymousRedditor86@reddit
The ProCeed is a good car. Please don't take what I'm about to say as me knocking that car. But . . . no id doesn't.
atsevoN@reddit
It’s a good car but uses too much fuel for a 1.6, I average like 30mpg. It keep up with Fiesta STs though so it’s no slouch, but I haven’t experienced any issues at all with mine and it’s on 85k miles. They’re also only 7-9k so if you take cost into consideration it’s quite a bargain. The torque for a 1.6 petrol is the best thing about the car, surprisingly. Grips to the road very well. Only MX5 I would own myself is the older Gens, the newer ones are terrible looking. The one with the pop ups is good looking, the newer ones are not lookers in my opinion. And also ridiculously cramped inside, even women I see driving them look hilariously squished. In the UK the newer ones are commonly called “Hairdressers cars”
AnnonymousRedditor86@reddit
Oh, even in the US, they aren't the most masculine of cars.
But, if you are patient, you can find a 1st or 2nd Gen Miata here in the US for under $20k, with a 400hp LS1 swapped in, riding on 315 tires all around.
Those things not only take a Ferraris lunch money, they go buy lunch, eat it in front of the Ferrari, then take a massive dump on the table.
atsevoN@reddit
More than you can afford pal, Miata. Revs clearly stock engine
atsevoN@reddit
The 7.4. Secs is also not accurate, when the car is warm it’ll do it in late 6s. I remember an article coming out for the MK1 Proceed being wrong on the published 0-60 time. Mine does it in half a second less than it’s claimed so I have no doubts it’s wrong. The good thing about the Proceed is you can remap them up to 265bhp pretty easily, so they can definitely catch people out
Advanced_Broccoli963@reddit
Dealer near me had a low mileage 2014 Miata club for 17k that was sooooo nice.....
GovPattNeff@reddit
S2ks under $20k are getting harder to find. Only ones I've seen that low are clapped out with eBay vent hoods and other garbage you don't want
azdirt@reddit
It's always more fun to drive a slow car fast than it is to drive a fast car slow. Miata for the win!
MaliciousMilk@reddit
Just drive the fast car fast? I don't understand, I have far more fun in my Cobalt with 260whp than I did in my buddy's Civic with like 120whp, or my other friend's V6 Mustang, with maybe 180ish whp.
Not that my car is that fast, but if the car is fast you can drive the fast car faster than you can drive the slow car even if you aren't at 100%, which imo is still more fun.
SpecialNose9325@reddit
You have any idea how much precaution is needed to actually do that. You could be redlining a Miata on a highway doing barely 10-20mph over the speed limit. Driving a fast car fast requires you to find a spot where you can safely do 50-80mph over the speed limit.
LeakyCVBoot@reddit
Get a motorcycle then. Even a slow motorcycle is faster than a fast car.
Korzag@reddit
Motorcycles are impractical for a lot of reasons. I own one and it sits in my garage for 6 months out of the year because I live in a cold northern climate. Where as right now it's fairly nice outside and I could take a sport car out for a ride. Motorcycles are also considerably more dangerous and less comfortable. I'd prefer to be able to go out for a ride and not have my wife worry about me and ask me to check in every hour or two to let her know I'm okay.
Bippa17@reddit
In that case get a snowmobile. An older "fast sled" is dirt cheap. If you ever took a serious.rip on an old xc700 or thundercat it would take months to wipe off the stupid grin
MaliciousMilk@reddit
They have the same issues people say fast cars have, where you can't fully get into on the street without getting in trouble. I think it's more accurate to say you can have fun more often with a slow car, rather than a slow car is more fun than a fast car or bike.
I'd never ride though, if other drivers didn't kill me the giant potholes in my city would lol
carbogan@reddit
If you drive a fast car fast you’re likely to end up with far more speeding tickets.
A miata feels pretty nippy doing a little pull to 50-60kph. Something much faster you’ll want to do pulls to 80-100kph because by 50 it’s probably still in first gear. And any speeding tickets over 40kph is an instant loss of licence where I live.
That’s why you don’t drive a fast car fast.
ezodochi@reddit
It's called going to a track....like you're kinda supposed to to really unleash the total capabilities of a sports car....
carbogan@reddit
That’s not what people are talking about when they say they would rather drive a slow car fast, than a fast car slow.
99% of the driving you do will be on the road. So when talking about driving cars they’re talking about that. And when buying cars, that’s what people are buying them for, road driving.
Obviously on a race track you want to drive a fast car fast, but we’re not all rich enough to own multiple cars or have track dedicated cars.
ezodochi@reddit
I mean sure for a daily driver, knock yourself out, I just hate that people will repeat slow car fast better than fast car slow ad naseum when even talking about sports cars and performance cars.
Yeah slow car fast can be fun, but so cam fast car fast.
carbogan@reddit
When talking about cars, most people aren’t talking about race cars.
Even when talking about sports cars there is massive variety. Are we talking a 1.6 na miata, or a v8 corvette, or a v6 supercharged awd Audi s4? They’re all sports cars, but they will all shine in different areas depending on the road conditions where you live.
I live in New Zealand for example. Plenty of narrow windy roads. Of those 3, the mx5 is the better choice. It doesn’t make the other 2 bad, just not as ideal for the conditions. It’s the car you are able to drive fastest in the conditions.
Idyotec@reddit
Doing that without a track is asking for trouble. I didn't understand until I got a Ford fiesta as a rental. It's a tiny little gocart with a furious little engine you can push hard without risking tickets. I've always driven v8s and easily end up at 80mph in second gear. Practically idling everywhere but on ramps. I'm not saying I'd buy a fiesta, and still love to laugh at the fart canned ones that make a huge racket just getting to 20mph at every stop light, but as a car guy, I know it's a lot more fun in there than it looks from the outside.
azdirt@reddit
It's an old saying and a joke. And actually, I messed it up. It's supposed to be "exciting" not "fun". But still, relax friend. This wasn't so serious.
MaliciousMilk@reddit
I'm not taking it too serious, I just hear it a lot and the logic and my own experiences make it just not true for myself.
But maybe I just need to drive a Miata lol
1PistnRng2RuleThmAll@reddit
“Slow car fast” doesn’t really apply to any slow car imo, it has to be something at least somewhat peppy that wants to be driven hard. A 4.0 V6 Mustang doesn’t count imo.
Of course, fast car fast is better but there aren’t as many opportunities.
_Adora_@reddit
BMW 2 series.
Blu_yello_husky@reddit
1994 Chevy camaro z28
NoPersonality7004@reddit
Slightly older model wrx! Just picked up my 2013 hatchback for 15000
Fuckth3shitredditapp@reddit
Bad idea.
Left_Net1841@reddit
He didn’t say reliable
Fuckth3shitredditapp@reddit
He did say best, and used 13 wrx will end costing well over 20k within a couple years of ownership.
NoPersonality7004@reddit
It's fine if you don't treat your wrx like shit lol. Keep up on fluids and maintenance and wrxs will last years even being driven hard. If you have this concept of what a wrx is then you need to take a quick look at your owners manual and realize it's not something you should just hop in and floor until it dies. I never said anything about it being the best or most reliable but they're affordable sports cars if you care for them properly.
Fuckth3shitredditapp@reddit
Some always says this but, but there's been an unfortunate amount of stock wrxs that have spun rod bearing.
Not to mention the firewall cracking, the glass five speed transmissions and head gasket issues.
NoPersonality7004@reddit
Man I also just skimmed the comments and didn't see your suggestions for op? I see folks saying "focus st" or "brz" and you decided to go off abt a wrx? Who hurt you man 😂
Fuckth3shitredditapp@reddit
I suggested a BRZ to OP, it must not have posted but I posted Miata, brz, focus, civic, mustang, lS1 f body and a golf.
I own an FRS and I think it's twice the car as the WRX in terms of fun and affordable
NoPersonality7004@reddit
Lol I don't even feel the need to further engage here. I guess we've each had our own experiences. I agree on miata or civic for sure
Fuckth3shitredditapp@reddit
3 wrx's hurt me man, fool me once shame on you Subaru fool me twice shame on me fool me a goddamn third time and I'm a fucking jester.
NoPersonality7004@reddit
Were they used?
NoPersonality7004@reddit
Every company makes cars that break my guy. I didn't say wrx are perfect but it's a fun, affordable, awd vehicle. I've owned 6 subarus and looking at my 7th now lol, I've taken those 5spds on more than stock hp to 256k miles but I've also had to replace transmissions on subarus. I've also owned Hondas and chevys that all had problems they just came in different forms. Moving parts = ware which in turn means you gotta replace parts and take care of your car. Idk what you're tryna prove but im fairly certain I answered ops question. Feels like you're just mad cause you blew up your subie and decided to condemn the whole company before question what you did wrong lol.
Left_Net1841@reddit
You and I would consider the variables that make up “best” cost of ownership including repairs and maintenance but not everyone does or nobody would buy a fuck ton of cars available.
Kashm1r_Sp1r1t@reddit
Miata
darthlame@reddit
Fiesta st
the_real_some_guy@reddit
I’m 6’3”, can I fit in a fiesta?
530nairb@reddit
You can fit but it won’t be comfortable. I’m 6’ with not long legs (32”) and the issue when I test drove it was when my foot was off the clutch. Nowhere to put my left leg and my knee was banging the door. Almost as bad as the FRS. They vem but a pad on newer FRS models bc of this.
agiehler@reddit
I’m 6’2 and fit in a Fiesta. Just have to crank the seat back and down, otherwise no problem. Have gone on 10 hour road trips no problem.
bluegenblackteg@reddit
Buddy is 6'4, I'm 6'2, he has a fiesta and fits comfortably, I love the headroom compared to my genesis coupe.
darthlame@reddit
While I am of average height, I have the seat adjusted as high as it will go. I have listened to podcasters who are also 6’3” and they love the car, and claim they have zero issues fitting
koa_iakona@reddit
Can't believe I had to scroll this far down. After a Miata, this is the clear answer. You can get a used low mileage mint Fiesta ST for $16-18K.
A $500 OBDII hookup and a $100 tune and you have a car with 200WHP and 300ft_lbs of torque and a suspension and tranny that can easily handle it and enough have been on the road long enough to prove it's dependability.
If FWD is a deal breaker, fine. Otherwise the Fieasta ST is the clear winner.
ThePoetMichael@reddit
I second fiesta ST for all the reasons listed above.
darthlame@reddit
I bought my 2016 March of 22, and have put about 20000 miles on it. With 65k on it, and some bolt on mods, it cost me $13k, in decent visual condition and no underbody rust. It came with a Cobb access port, but I haven’t loaded the tune yet. With the factory tune, this car is a a lot of fun, and very capable. No problems in snow, with winter tires, and I honestly enjoy driving it more than the 2022 wrx I had previously.
I think part of my enjoyment is driving a car that only weighs 2700 pounds, and having relatively low power numbers means I can use more of the power more often. A great combination that is hard to find outside of roadsters like the Miata
pooborus@reddit
Thatd get you a rather nice 350z or run of the mill 370z. Ive had a 350 for 4 years. Super reliable, super fun, overall not crazy fast, but has a healthy aftermarket and normal parts are cheap af. Even whole engine/trans combos are cheap because of how japans market works.
TanguerayMan@reddit
I absolutely love my 07 TSX, but you guys probably don't think it's fast enough🥲(it's plenty fast)
TWrecksActual@reddit
Porsche Boxster or Cayman is calling me…
Guvnah-Wyze@reddit
Biased, but Fiat 500 Abarth.
Wicked fun. Cheap, and sips gas.
russiancarguy@reddit
ISF. Will be a bit higher miles say 90-150k, but the platform is bulletproof. Minor mods and it runs 11’s, gets 28mpg highway, is Lexus comfortable, and is low key on attention. Main appeal is no one knows what it is yet it has one of the nicest sounding V8’s.
FH3onPC@reddit
DSG GTI
Jiggs7777@reddit
Camaro sport is a good choice.
Jiggs7777@reddit
Can't forget a volkswagen beetle. The best sports car ever built.
PrecisionGuessWerk@reddit
Real question here is how much do you care about maintenance?
Do you want an actual DCT/DSG, or as long as it has paddles doesn't matter?
UpperLeftMoneyShift@reddit
At under 20k seriously suggest buying a manual. You can learn to drive it in an afternoon with a patient friend and after a month you're going to have way more fun than any automatic in that price bucket. There are cars I'd gladly take in an auto, but they're multiples of $20k and have DCTs.
Beaverhuntr@reddit
95 Civic hatchback with air intake
tn_notahick@reddit
BRZ/86/FRS
temp_jits@reddit
Can you drive stick shift? Paddles are fun, But your experience and options will be Infinitely better if you learn how to drive manual. It is also a very handy skill that you will never forget.
30U8_s@reddit (OP)
Yeah, I can
MrOliber@reddit
Honda S2000, but they aren't as common as Miatas.
dreadkilla626@reddit
S2000 won't be in his budget. Even high mileage ones are going for high 30s
atsevoN@reddit
They’re like £10-12k here
ezodochi@reddit
In the US they're p saught after once word got out how fun they are so huge demand, small supply
TheQuantumStapler@reddit
I haven’t seen any s2000s for above 25 where I live. He should be able to find a slightly clapped one for under budget
MrOliber@reddit
That is pretty crazy - UK has them starting at £5-6k on eBay and as another commentor said - starting around £10k for a good example on Autotrader!
dreadkilla626@reddit
Guess I need to import from UK to the US when I start my next project
temp_jits@reddit
Nice!
I'd go with a miata
PangPang3@reddit
Porsche Cayman or Boxster. Can get some good 986, 987 and potentially some 981 for that price. All great.
Also, a miata/mx5 is never a wrong answer.
Theswisscheese@reddit
Miata
Dramradhel@reddit
Got me a mint Toyota MR2 spyder for 6k USD. It’s a blast
DoctorJiveTurkey@reddit
What year? How many miles?
Dramradhel@reddit
2003 and 112k miles.
Butt_bird@reddit
Same here. It’s like a road legal go cart. The steering is outstanding.
Dramradhel@reddit
I picked mine up in late December. I can’t wait for spring to drive it more. Most fun I’ve had in a car
walnut_creek@reddit
Diesel 3 series BMW from 2009-2011 with Sport Package. A real sleeper with tons of amenities. Has paddles, and with a cheap chip, will dust off most hot hatches and still get 35 mpg. Sell before it hits 200K miles, though. Turbos are $$$$$.
the_real_some_guy@reddit
35mpg sounds great as long as you don’t think about the extra 30%-40% more you pay per gallon.
walnut_creek@reddit
The extra cost isn't quite so bad when you compare diesel to the premium gas that a BMW would need otherwise. Here in the East, diesel is maybe $.20 a gallon more than premium. YMMV.
the_real_some_guy@reddit
Oh good point. When talking about diesel I'm used to talking about trucks where regular gas is fine and the better fuel economy vs the extra cost on diesel fuel usually brings you to about a break even point.
Jiggs7777@reddit
Infinity Q50.
TheQuantumStapler@reddit
Scion frs/toyota gt86
Lubi3chill@reddit
Civic type R
kanda4955@reddit
There are Civic Type Rs under $20k?
Lubi3chill@reddit
I’m not talking about brand new ones. You can get 7gen for quatter of that price. And you can easily get 8th gen for 20k$.
kanda4955@reddit
I’m in the USA. You can’t get a Type R used here for under $30k
Lubi3chill@reddit
I just checked and seen one for 26k near la area on facebook.
America never will stop amazing me. You can get m3 e36/e46 for dirt cheap and you can’t get type r for a normal price. Like legit budget sporty econobox is more expensive than a freaking mid luxury sports car.
Here in Europe you can get 7gen type r (the one that looks like an egg and has k20a engine) for 5k€ which is basically the same amount of dollars. That’s about the price of non m3 2.5L e46 coupe in not best condition.
kanda4955@reddit
We only have one generation of Type Rs here. The AWD 300 horse version. We have many generations of Si here.
Lubi3chill@reddit
Ooh. Yea the newest generation is more expensive, I just assumed you guys have all gen type r’s.
So I guess you also don’t have the stronger engines?
Maybe acura integra would be a better choice then.
Ilikejoints@reddit
No
Pleasant_Cartoonist6@reddit
Automatic but still rips https://www.duncanimports.com/used/Nissan/1989-Nissan-Fairlady+Z+300ZX-87a909cc0a0e09b15375f999ca86e202.htm
zakate@reddit
Mazda miata
xThazed@reddit
Subaru BRZ, Toyota 86 or Scion FRS
Having owned one for 8 years and I’ve loved every minute of it. Very fun cars to drive, highly recommended.
Miata is great too!
Dangerous-Dad@reddit
You can get BMW '07-'13 135/335 with paddle shifters for under $20k.
Surround3dbycats@reddit
Porsche Cayman
SVTraptor99@reddit
N55 135dct add some bolt ons and you will have a blast
dlax6-9@reddit
Maserati with the CambioCorsa transmission...
RoadkillKitty_@reddit
Secondary question to this, dad had a TR4 i learned to drive in, and i later had a 74 MGB that i loved when it wasn't an absolute shit. How's the Miata compare? Newer and more comfortable, obviously, but shifting handling and whatnot.
NjGTSilver@reddit
You can find first gen boxsters for that money, maybe even a cayman.
ComprehendReading@reddit
Then you can put the remaining -5,000 into maintenance.
Badgerfive5@reddit
Any rental car for the day.
ComprehendReading@reddit
White van with a ladder on top.
It's always the fastest car in your rearview mirror.
MerbleTheGnome@reddit
Mini Cooper S
crisprcas32@reddit
A Kia soul will out accelerate you, but you’ll take corners faster and more comfortably than anyone else
MerbleTheGnome@reddit
A Mini S is about 2 seconds quicker 0-60 than a Soul, and about 20 MPH faster at the top end.
ComprehendReading@reddit
Yeah but that guys Kia Soul has no seats, bumper, hubcaps or windows! It's lighter!
Chance-Confidence863@reddit
used tesla. save you money and you'll shred even 80k cars. Gas is of the past my man.
atsevoN@reddit
Perhaps but electric certainly isn’t the future
Chance-Confidence863@reddit
Oh they certainly are. cheaper than my gas was, faster, more reliable, wake up to full tank every day, pre-heated car on a timer, cameras built in for any issues I need recorded. Safety is first, instant torque letting you dodge accidents quicker or make maneuvers before other cars can react. Kids love the car, family members kids always asking if they get to ride with me. No one else gets asked ever. Having my app everywhere I go to locate the car, adjust the car, check the cars cameras, adjust temp and heat my seats. I could go on.
Had a steering arm issue once and a cable pin broke. Cost me nothing now but tires. Once interest rates get to about 3.5% I'll be picking up another. Gas is just .. noisy?
atsevoN@reddit
It’s not sustainable. Petroleum/Diesel cars will Fade out but they will not be replaced by electric. The hilarious thing about electric cars is they’re claimed to be environmentally friendly yet the amount of damage they do to the planet manufacturing them is more than a petrol car will ever produce. It’s just a marketing gimmick. My car is 26 years old and running everyday, how many Tesla’s will be about in almost 30 years time? Don’t forget in that time in certainly won’t be on the original battery if there are still on the road. They’re too expensive to buy and not any cheaper to run. In the UK they’re marketed as “cheaper”. Wait until they put the price of electricity up 🤣. It’s like the diesel scandal in the 90s, they told everybody to switch over as it’s “cheaper” but then as soon as everybody changed over they put the price of the diesel fuel up lol.
Chance-Confidence863@reddit
They are very sustainable. A lot of what you're pushing is anti-ev rhetoric that never had much basis to begin with. They don't have oil changes, they dont run through brakes, they can be charged on solar panels which you cant do with gas. In fact I have 2 powerwalls and solar myself. You cant increase the price of what the sun gives for free.
If I save all the money from not buying gas my next battery will be free, and I'll still not spent any extra time at jiffy lube just to change my brakes or oil. You didnt mention drive train so I'll assume you didnt really know about it. You need to replace that eventually too.
The most expensive thing right now are interest rates, I'm waiting for them to drop over the next year and a half to begin looking for my next long term electric car for someone else in my family.
Things I dont miss about gas cars, dealerships, the smell, the health issues, the cars depreciation rates, the lack of new technology, missing cameras. regularly change brakes, regularly change oil, wasting gas to slow down and wear down brakes. Not being able to connect to my car remotely. Too many things that can just break suddenly (transmission). Getting my catalytic converter stolen. Oh my and the noise; I like to hear my music. No smart AI that improves my sound quality or immersive sound quality when it figures it out. No instant updates for car improvements at all. tiny touch screens if any. slow software/hardware. Too many buttons that will need replacing. Bad self driving technology if any. No computer that can dodge accidents you cannot even see yet (cameras on outside of car). No blind spot cameras to show cars when you're changing lanes. Dealership wont show up to your house to fix issues. No instant torque (this is a big one). With such a noisy car you'd think it would at least go faster from the starting line. Its like a baby kicking and screaming. Pathetic.
Things I dont like about EV's - Any EV with under \~300 miles of range. end of list. Maybe less range required in 2 years since the charger stations will continue to multiply and as gas stations begin to convert to ev chargers.
ShatterProofDick@reddit
986 or 987, preferably a S model with a manual transmission.
larryfisherrmann@reddit
evo 8 & it's not really close
defiancy@reddit
Not going to find anything good at that price point and honestly the Evo X is better in pretty much everyway plus is in the price range.
Source: I've owned a lot of DSMs and Evos
Chris77123@reddit
Just get a mustang gt, newest and lowest mile you can get.
spkoller2@reddit
Motorcycle
johnsmithy2theend@reddit
Miata. Gr86. Old WRX (watch out for head gasket issues).
Javier1019@reddit
Gr 86 going for around 32k rn
An old gt86 brz or Scion frs would go for under 20k
Turninwheels4x4@reddit
Miata is always the answer.
Javier1019@reddit
Depends if u want a project or a daily.. project u could get a lot with 20k just gonna have to put in money after words…
Daily try Miata’s Civics (no type r’s) older versions of the brz gt86
atsevoN@reddit
I have a Gen 6 Celica (not a GT4) but it’s the best car I’ve ever owned. Everything about it is perfect for me personally, driving position, looks, comfort in the seats, dashboard, even the damn smell of the interior. I can imagine the GT4 is next level
Javier1019@reddit
lol awesome; the 94 Gen 6 GT was my first car. That’s what made me get this GT4. I loved that car so much and when I blew the engine I was so upset. Back then I didn’t know how to care for a car. I needed that car back so a couple years after I found this GT4 and imported it. Headache with the DMV and Emissions but we got her legalized and driving! And it’s a huge difference in a drive due to the all wheel drive, turbo and left hand drive but very similar to the interior and comfort of it
Take care of that gen 6. Beautiful car!
i_wannatalktosamson@reddit
C5, can find a higher mile c5z06 or even a higher mile ls2 c6
Smykster@reddit
Yes to this. All three can be found at this price. If you want to go buck wild, get a higher mileage c5 and throw a super charger in it. Should come under 20k and you’ve got a 500hp+ good looking car. Interior is pretty rough though.
totaltimeontask@reddit
Honda S2000.
Doublestack00@reddit
NC Miata and a good list of mods.
I_dropkick_kittens@reddit
Honda s2000
ChakeenMachine@reddit
You can get a 2005 mustang GT that’s been supercharged for 20 grand. The good part is that’s a pretty decent car for that price and if anything breaks it’s easy to repair. With the supercharger that car a ton of fun. I don’t think the automatic comes with paddle shifters and if it does, they’re gonna suck.
Dan_Biddle@reddit
FK2 Type R
kjhammah@reddit
Nobody said Mazdaspeed 3?
Playerdouble@reddit
am can’t believe no one has said a 370z yet. I have one and they’re great sporty cars, not too fast, but defintiely not slow, I got mine under $20k. They come in both paddle shifters or manual, though I recommend the manual because they have auto-rev match
atsevoN@reddit
Not as good as a 350z though imo
Playerdouble@reddit
Huh, why?
atsevoN@reddit
Better overall in my opinion, nicer interior and exterior. Just don’t like the shape of the 370z. Purely subjective though but I just don’t like the 370z aesthetically, it’s also triple the price in the UK for no more car
RecommendationUsed31@reddit
just add a few things and for under about 1500 dollars you can have a peppy little vehicle. E85, cold air, better exhaust and a tune. Vroom vroom
TheKingOfSwing777@reddit
Lots of good Miata comments but I'll offer a Toyota GT 86 as another option.
Aracebo@reddit
Yeah, the auto trans in the 86 is really fun with the paddles.
LuigiDiMafioso@reddit
u could find a Cayman or Boxter in Germany at this price but it would be older and probably have some expensive upcoming issues to fix. i'd rate this as the most fun bang for your buck tho
Jerbsina7or@reddit
Wish the Hyundai Velosters were reliable because they are cool looking little sporty cars. Apparently they are shit boxes though unfortunately.
atsevoN@reddit
I have the Kia Proceed GT which basically shares the same engine 1.6 Turbo with just over 200bhp and I’ve not had any issues with mine, people do say engine issues but I’ve not encountered any any mine is on 85k
TommyWilson43@reddit
Focus ST is right in that area and it’s the best car I’ve ever owned. Very reliable and a blast to drive, it’s even halfway practical
I’d stay the F away from Audis or anything German.
LeafintheWind88@reddit
Buy a mini truck from Japan and put a 1200cc motor in it, No paddle shifters sorry but it'll be a little rocket.
__Bren__@reddit
B8/8.5 S4. Amazing DSG trans, a stellar AWD system, and a huge power potential.
Wonderful-Dress296@reddit
AWD makes for a better touring car than a sports car. Drive a PDK, that is an amazing dual clutch transmission. So, used Boxster if you want a sub $20k VAG Sports car.
Forrest319@reddit
Hard pressed to find a boxster with a PDK for $20,000. PDK wasn't available until 2009. Those are going for well above $20k.
Wonderful-Dress296@reddit
Valid. Boxsters can be had for cheap but not PDK boxsters.
Lancelot_Stroller@reddit
Always B8.5 over 8. There are fewer issues in the revamped version
RecommendationUsed31@reddit
370z
TX_Sized10-4@reddit
8th or 9th gen Civic Si.
hopelesscase789@reddit
Decent mileage MK2 TTS... Or even the TTRS. You may want to mod the TTS to get some more power.
MidniteOG@reddit
S2k
Sessile-B-DeMille@reddit
If you want paddle shifters, I'd recommend a VW GTI, the DSG transmission is really good. Where I am, there are 2017-2018 models for less than $20,000.
Dedward5@reddit
Elise S1 https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/404751386710?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=iye3jngxsu-&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=HXswyH6UT46&var=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Spencercook@reddit
Yes, if you’re in the UK like this car. In the US, good luck for $30 or even $40k
z51corvette@reddit
Great price wow
hailstorm11093@reddit
Miat
Nutmasher@reddit
You a wrencher?
If so, an RSX with a k24 swap. That thing slaps. Just dropped a k24 in mine.
You need to wrench bc very few mechanics would probably want to touch it. Even so, Honda parts are not overly expensive, but OEM can be for alternators, starters, etc. I have aftermarket, but stick to OEM for most gaskets and fluids. Although fel pro work for me.
callahanconnor@reddit
I'd go c5 or c6 corvette.
C6 will have higher miles and tougher to fond under 20 but they're out there.
TLOtis23@reddit
2018-2019 BMW 330i are mostly under $20k. Quick and not bad on gas.
Explorer335@reddit
I love the BMWs, but bulletproof isn't a word I would use to describe any of them. While they are much better than previous generations, the G20 will still have its share of enormous repairs with oil filter housing, intercooler leaks, evaporator core, etc. Very good cars for the money though.
TLOtis23@reddit
Yes, that was probably a bad choice of words on my part. I've seen the B48 (and B58) described as bulletproof, but you are certainly right about some of the attached parts.
I've had a great run with my 2018 330i but I'm preparing to replace it at 73k miles. One of the main reasons for this is expected maintenance cost, though I have only had one unscheduled repair to the vehicle since I bought it as a CPO with 28,000 miles on it.
chillywilly521@reddit
I can second what this guys says. My bro had a '09 and now and '14 335 and the plastic parts getting brittle is a real issue along with the other things Explorer335 has mentioned. Great driving car but constant repairs when they have >100k gets a little old.
PassmoreR77@reddit
I'm assuming used?
C4 Corvette, but if thats too old BRZ
Sir_Tmotts_III@reddit
You're going to be really hard-pressed. Stuff like a Focus ST or 3rd gen Taurus SHO might fit the bill, but cost and availability are not in your favor. I'm not saying it won't happen, but you'd have a lot more options if you went for a stick. Such as:
z51corvette@reddit
Will you track the car at all? If so, how much?
Zealousideal-Item321@reddit
golf r
Melch_Underscore@reddit
Subaru WRX = rocket ship
notzed1487@reddit
BYD
z51corvette@reddit
Lol
OlRedbeard99@reddit
As a toyota fan boy my answer is build a Celica.
The 3SGTE is an awesome platform.
Agile-Living4019@reddit
Hyundai scoupe
OlRedbeard99@reddit
Omg I miss my lil banana
ilikethatstock69@reddit
Golf R or mustang
OkGuarantee1908@reddit
Any LS
Dr_Wheuss@reddit
$2K will get you a Jaguar XJS. Dump the remaining $18K into upgrades and lighter weight parts and body panels. The suspension is great, and it's a fun ride.
If you don't want to do any work yourself then probably something like a Miata or S2000. Some of the old Mitsubishi Eclipses could go with a little modding as well.
This was a lot easier 20 years ago.
Hero11234@reddit
Frs
PasiAltonen@reddit
Mk5 golf r maybe?
Krunk_korean_kid@reddit
Hands down Mazda Miata, and they look great too!
Elitepikachu@reddit
I'd highly reccomend the solstice/sky redline/gxp in manual. You can get a very clean one for under $20k and they're really fun and unique.
co-oper8@reddit
Everyone answering with abbreviations 😂🤣. If you're going to answer someones question just answer it all the way.
opman4@reddit
4th gen ls fbody then put the rest into engine mods.
rastapastry@reddit
I drive a 2016 Subaru Legacy we got barely used in 2017 and the car has 34k miles so far, and I love the car. AWD, 4 cylinder, paddle shifters, transmission has 10 year/100k mile warranty. This is my 3rd Subaru STI, after owning 2003 WRX & 2004 STI. Need to change fluids at proper times with Subarus, though. Tranny fluid (front & rear diffs) around 30k at most.
Individual-Act-5986@reddit
Miata
IWillAssFuckYou@reddit
Used 5th gen Camaros can go under 20k
Less_Professional642@reddit
e90 328i m sport sedan with manual trans, manual seats, and no sunroof lol its a unicorn but reliable and fun to drive. or a 14-15 335i. Those are the last years of the n55 so they should have worked out most of the kinks and I believe they come with a zf 8 speed? Plus new body style over the e90 (f30)
anon3220@reddit
Miata
avotius@reddit
ND Miata with an auto, but that is a biased answer since I have a manual ND Miata. I really liked the 2019 Mini Cooper S my wife got as a loaner when her Mini was in the shop, if it weren't for the Miata I would probably have one of those.
captain_sta11@reddit
If you Learn to drive a manual or know already, the options will be even more. Can get a decent mk7/7.5 GTI in that price range and could get a DSG with paddles. A Civic SI is a little slower than the GTI but is a fantastic daily and has a great manual gearbox.
TheJumpingPenis@reddit
Golf GTI with the DSG.