The Ford Mustang is one of the most successful sports cars of all time, with millions of units sold and legions of passionate fans. Lately, the Mustang has generated a great deal of buzz with its redesign for the 2024 model year. However, the Mustang is not for everyone, and there are affordable sports cars to get instead. Here are four great Ford Mustang alternatives that cost less than $30,000.

Affordable sports cars to get instead of a Ford Mustang

The starting price of the 2022 Ford Mustang is $27,470 MSRP. Compared to many other sports cars, such as the Chevy Corvette, the Mustang is affordable. However, if you’re seeking an affordable sports car alternative to the Ford Mustang, then check out these four models:

• 2022 Chevy Camaro (Starting price: $25,000 MSRP)
• 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI (Starting price: $29,880 MSRP)
• 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata (Starting price: $27,670 MSRP)
• 2022 Subaru WRX (Starting price: $29,605 MSRP)

Chevy Camaro: One of the cheapest alternatives to the Ford Mustang

With a starting price of just $25,000 MSRP, the 2022 Chevy Camaro is one of the cheapest sports car alternatives to the Ford Mustang. If you want excellent performance at an affordable price, then the Camaro might be for you. The standard engine for the Camaro is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which generates 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. More powerful V-6 and V-8 engines are available, but that will push the price of the Camaro higher.

Another highlight of the Camaro is its bold and aggressive design. Also, despite its relatively heavy weight, the Camaro handles well and has good cornering abilities. Additionally, it provides enough comfort to function well as a daily driver.

Volkswagen Golf GTI: Affordable sports car performance for the ‘hot hatch’

Another affordable sports car alternative to the Ford Mustang that costs less than $30,000 is the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, which has a starting price of $29,880 MSRP. While the Golf GTI doesn’t have the design of a typical sports car, there’s much to like about the “hot hatch.” It boasts athletic handling, a peppy turbocharged engine, precise steering, and confident braking.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in the Golf GTI doles out 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, while its compact size results in nimble handling around corners. Also, despite its small size, the Golf GTI provides a surprisingly generous amount of interior space. It has comfortable seating for five passengers. Also, with the rear seats folded down flat, the Golf GTI offers 34.5 cu-ft of cargo space.

Mazda MX-5 Miata is a fun-to-drive alternative to the Ford Mustang

The third affordable sports car alternative to the Ford Mustang that costs less than $30,000 is the 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata, which has a starting price of $27,670 MSRP. The MX-5 Miata nicely fuses modern design elements with classic sports car styling. It’s also fun-to-drive, with its low weight, superb handling, and precise steering.

Compared to other sports cars on this list, the MX-5 Miata’s 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine is underpowered, with an output of 151 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. However, with its low weight, not much power is needed, as the MX-5 Miata still delivers quick acceleration. Also, compared to most sports cars, the MX-5 is efficient, with an estimated gas mileage of up to 30 combined mpg.

Subaru WRX: Sports car with standard all-wheel drive

Do you desire an affordable sports car that you can drive in harsh weather conditions? If so, then the 2022 Subaru WRX could be a good choice for you. The 2023 WRX, which has a starting price of $29,605 MSRP, comes standard with an all-wheel drive system, providing excellent traction — whether on uneven surfaces or snowy and icy roads. 

The WRX features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which churns out 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Also, as detailed by U.S. News, it has strong brakes, responsive handling, and comfortable seating.

Affordable sports car alternatives to the Ford Mustang that cost less than $30,000 include the 2022 Chevy Camaro, 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata, and 2022 Subaru WRX. If you have budget limitations — but want the driving excitement of a sports car, then these are great models to consider.