Owning a sports car is often seen as a luxury reserved for those with deep pockets, but several automakers are proving that exhilarating driving experiences don’t have to come with a six-figure price tag. The 2025 MX-5 Miata, heralded as the most capable version of Mazda’s iconic roadster, exemplifies this trend, offering a blend of affordability and driving pleasure.
The sports car market, while shrinking, still presents options for budget-conscious enthusiasts. Dave Coleman, an engineering manager at Mazda, champions the MX-5 Miata, priced at $29,530, as a perfect example of accessible fun. “There is so much boring stuff in our daily life,” Coleman remarked. “Sports cars are an attainable way to enjoy your life. You can push the envelope with a sports car.”
The Enduring Appeal of the Miata
For 35 years, the Miata has maintained its status as a beloved sports car due to its affordability, lightweight design, and engaging driving dynamics. Despite shifts in consumer preferences away from two-seaters, the Miata continues to thrive. “You can drive the car at the limit without going so fast that you can’t see through the corner,” Coleman explained. “It’s tuned for backroads, not the track. We sell as many as we build.”
“Sports cars are not very practical,” said Tyson Jominy, vice president of data and analytics at J.D. Power. “You need excess funds to afford these vehicles.”
Jominy’s insights reflect broader market trends. Sports cars now account for just 1.1% of the U.S. auto market, a significant decline from their peak in 2005. However, the emotional appeal of sports cars remains strong, with enthusiasts willing to overlook practicality for the thrill of driving.
Ford’s Iconic Mustang and Its Rivals
Despite the challenges, manufacturers like Ford continue to invest in sports cars. The Mustang, starting at $31,920, dominated the U.S. sports car segment in May, capturing 62% of sales. According to Joe Bellino, Mustang brand manager, the car’s appeal extends beyond performance to include features like a large infotainment screen and advanced driver-assistance technologies.
Other affordable options include the Toyota GR86, Subaru BRZ, and Nissan Z, each offering unique attributes that cater to different tastes. Vinay Shahani, senior vice president of U.S. marketing and sales for Nissan, highlighted the Z’s strong sales since its 2023 relaunch. “Very few car companies offer a manual transmission, 400 horsepower sports car that starts in the low $40,000s,” Shahani noted.
The Future of Affordable Sports Cars
While some automakers have retired models like the Chevy Camaro, others remain committed to the segment. Tony Quiroga, editor-in-chief of Car and Driver, emphasized the ongoing demand for affordable sports cars, despite the market’s shift towards SUVs and electric vehicles. “There’s magic to an internal combustion engine. Drivers want to hear the engine and shift the gears themselves,” Quiroga said.
Rory Carroll, co-founder of Alloy mag, believes that sports cars will continue to have a place in the automotive landscape. “I feel a responsibility to recommend these cars,” he stated. “Owning a sports car is a life experience too few people are having.”
“The last car built on Earth will surely be a sports car,” Ferry Porsche famously said, capturing the enduring allure of these vehicles.
As automakers navigate changing consumer preferences and regulatory landscapes, the future of affordable sports cars remains uncertain. However, for those who crave the unique thrill of driving, models like the MX-5 Miata and Mustang offer a tantalizing taste of excitement without breaking the bank.
