10 CLASSIC SPORTS CARS THAT ARE ACTUALLY AFFORDABLE TO OWN

Affordable classic sports cars. Four words that you wouldn't expect to go together in the same sentence. Well, in fact, they can and do fit together. They are not as out of reach as you may think. If you have ever driven a sports car, you will know the sense of freedom, thrill, and fun they give that is unrivaled by most other cars. But what is better than just a sports car? A classic sports car that can really turn heads is truly full of character and unique.

You may think that it is impossible to get what you want from a classic sports car and still keep it affordable, but in reality, there are plenty of sports cars out there that you will not only love the look of but also love the feel of as you carve through the canyons, hit the freeway, or show up at a meet with other sports car enthusiasts. Regardless of what you are looking for; looks, handling, straight-line power, status, practicality, or uniqueness, there are plenty of sports cars that are actually affordable and fun to own, fun to drive, and that you will surely cherish.

Related: 10 V-8 Sports Cars That Are Unfairly Overlooked

Alfa Romeo Spider

Years of production: 1966 - 1994

The Alfa Romeo Spider epitomizes Italian automotive style and flair. The Spider has been a beloved member of the Alfa Romeo lineup for nearly three decades. Its sleek, Pininfarina aerodynamic design features smooth lines, a distinctive front grille, and those iconic round headlamps that exuded timeless charm.

Performance Specifications

Under the hood, engine sizes range from 1.4-liters to later models being powered by a lively 2.0-liter inline-four engine, delivering you a spirited driving experience with 130 horsepower. The Spider's rear-wheel-drive setup and five-speed manual transmission make it a true driver's car, offering enthusiasts a responsive and exhilarating ride.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Years of production: 1989 - present

No affordable classic sports car list would be without the Mazda Miata. This nippy rear-wheel-drive roadster has stood the test of time when it comes to maneuverability and style. What this car lacks in straight-line power more than makes up for it in the corners. The Miata's low configuration and tight handling means that it is a beautiful car for drivers of any ability to have fun with on a track, on country roads and in the bends.

Performance Specifications

With a convertible or hard-top option, the Miata is a totally useable classic. With a few optional mods, like lowered shocks or a turbo, you can turn a classic into a custom-classic with ease. There is a huge following for these cars meaning there are plenty of after-market and OEM parts for them, making maintenance and tuning easy!

MG MGB GT

Years of production: 1965 - 1980

Introduced in 1965, the MG MGB GT is an affordable classic British sports car celebrated for its enduring charm and respectable performance. It is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing around 95 horsepower, connected to a four-speed manual gearbox. While not a powerhouse in its class, its lightweight construction and responsive handling make it a thrilling drive.

Performance Specifications

With a 0-60 mph time of around 11 seconds and a top speed of about 105 mph, the MGB GT will give you a full-on driving experience away from outright speed in its handling. Its hatchback design provides more trunk space compared to the convertible MGB, adding a touch of practicality to the sporty package.

Related: 15 Sports Cars From The 2000s Still Worth Buying Today

Lotus Esprit

Years of production: 1976 - 2004

The Lotus Esprit continues to captivate, its allure is grounded in and thanks to its design, performance, and style. The Esprit’s design is timeless. The sleek wedge-shaped body and pop-up headlights exude a unique charm that still turns heads. The lightweight fiberglass body contributes to its nimble handling and impressive performance. It boasts a range of engines, from the early four-cylinder powerplants to the later V-8 models, offering a variety of power options to suit different preferences.

Performance Specifications

Not only does it look great, but it can achieve a 0–60 mph time between 4.5s to nine seconds, depending on the age and model. Maintenance costs for the Esprit are also reasonable compared to other classics. The DIY-friendly nature of Lotus ownership allows you to keep costs in check by performing your own maintenance.

Jaguar XJS

Years of production: 1975 - 1996

The Jaguar XJS, often overlooked in favor of its E-Type predecessor, has quietly become a hidden gem in the world of affordable classic sports cars. The XJS boasts a classic, elegant design that has aged remarkably well. Its sleek lines and distinctive front end give it a timeless appeal that is hard to rival today. Looks aside, with a range of different engine options, including the powerful yet smooth V-12, the XJS offers a fun driving experience. It strikes a balance between power and comfort perfectly well.

Performance Specifications

With its lower cost compared to other classic Jags, the XJS is an accessible yet enjoyable car to own and drive in most environments, from longer cruises down the freeway to winding country roads.

BMW Z3

Years of production: 1996 - 2002

The BMW Z3 gleams a compelling blend of performance and design that continues to impress. Its sleek design, penned by Joji Nagashima, boasts classic roadster proportions, with a long hood, short overhangs, and a distinctive twin-kidney grille.

Performance Specifications

In terms of performance, the Z3 is a thrill-seeker’s dream. The range of inline-four and inline-six engines deliver a punchy power output, allowing for spirited acceleration and dynamic handling. The rear-wheel-drive layout and well-tuned suspension contribute to precise and engaging driving dynamics. Whether it’s the nimble 1.9-liter base model or the potent M Roadster with a 3.2-liter inline-six, the Z3 provides a great driving experience. It’s a perfect blend of style and performance, making it a timeless classic in the BMW lineup that continues to turn heads and ignite the passion of driving enthusiasts.

Related: 10 Used BMWs That Could Replace Your Dream Of Owning An M4

Porsche 924

Years of production: 1976 - 1988

Despite initial skepticism from Porsche fans, the Porsche 924 has earned its place as an enjoyable and affordable classic sports car. The first thing you notice is its timeless design, featuring clean lines, pop-up headlamps, and a distinctive profile. The 924 has aged gracefully and can now be appreciated as a design feat.

Performance Specifications

The 924 also offers a rewarding driving experience, though maybe a little underpowered, with its original engine producing 118 lb-ft of torque. The balanced chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout deliver superb handling characteristics, however, making it a delight to pilot through twisty roads. The approachable power output of the original 2.0-liter in-line-four-cylinder engine is ideal for those seeking an introduction into the classic sports car experience without having to tackle overwhelming power or those who don’t feel the need to be constantly riding by the seat of their pants.

Audi TT

Years of production: 1998 - present

The Audi TT was always going to make the list! The TT comes with a range of engines with ample torque and all are fun! Whether it’s the turbocharged inline-four or the potent V-6 in the TTS, torque delivery is robust, which results in exhilarating acceleration. The TT handles corners with precision and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system ensures exceptional grip and stability which makes it a very suitable sports car for driver’s of most standards.

Performance Specifications

With its classic rivalry with similarly aged Porsche Boxters, the TT does come up a little short when it comes to speed and handling, but they are cheaper. For the money you spend on a TT, you get a greatamount of fun. Opting for the real-wheel option gives you the real feel of a classic sports car.

Toyota Celica

Years of production: 1970 - 2006

With a heritage that stretches back to the 1970s, the Toyota Celica has earned its place on the list of affordable classic sports cars. With newer generations being powered by the truly reliable Toyota VVT engine, this is a car that not only has a bit of grunt behind it but won't leave you having to strip it down every time you want to push its capabilities. Though the power it produces may seem low compared to today's standards, the Celica will still get you from 0 - 60mph in around 7 seconds.

Performance Specifications

With thirty-something years of models to choose from, price will differ depending on what generation you want to drive. What makes the Celica such a fantastic affordable sports car, though is that it is highly tuneable, and it is incredibly fun to drive.

Related: 10 High-Performance Cars That Are Perfect for Budget-Conscious Buyers

Fiat 124 Sport Spider

Years of production: 1966 - 1985 & 2015 - 2021

The lightweight and nimble Fiat 124 Spider was produced between 1966 and 1985 and has done little to upset classic sports car fans or fans of design. With successors of the 124 being rolled out as late as 2021, the Fiat Spider does all that encompasses a fun and affordable classic sports car. The engine options vary from the original 89 horsepower, 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine to the most modern, though not a classic yet, 1.4-liter Multi-Air turbo in-line-four engine which pumps out 160 horsepower.

Performance Specifications

From the start, the Fiat Spider has encompassed what is meant to be a good sports car, it looks good, it feels good, it drives well, and makes you smile as you drive it. Low and light, it is a powerhouse in the corners. The original models will give you the finesse of 60’s Italian design whilst the later models give you a little more torque and power. For reasonably low prices, the Fiat 124 Spider is a fantastic affordable classic sports car.

2023-09-18T22:18:43Z dg43tfdfdgfd