Every young driver wants a car that will make them smile; whether it’s a muscle car, a little sports car, or a hot hatchback, that first car should be cool. Luckily for car shoppers, the used car market is stocked with some pretty interesting first cars that won’t break the bank. Here are some of the cheapest cool options for first car hunters, like a retired Ford Crown Victoria Interceptor. 

• Volkswagen Golf GTI
• Mazda MX-5
• Ford Mustang
• Subaru Impreza
• Porsche Boxster
• Ford Crown Victoria

Is a Volkswagen Golf GTI a cheap, cool first car?

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a storied hot hatchback and generally a good car for someone who wants affordable performance. First, the Golf GTI is practical, with an available five-door configuration. Next, the newest iterations of the hot hatchback will hit sixty in nearly five seconds and cost around $30,000.  However, buying one of the earlier generations is a solid option if you want to save a little cash on your cheap, cool first car. 

Is the Mazda MX-5 a good first car? 

The Mazda MX-5 isn’t going to win you any drag races, but if you want a small, fun convertible, the MX-5 wrote the modern book. The ‘Miata’ offers different generational choices, optional manual transmissions, and fuel economy that leaves little to be desired. Even better, you can snag a preowned Miata for well under $20,000.

Should you avoid a Ford Mustang for your first car?

The Ford Mustang is a great car for people who want an affordable muscle car. They’re easy to work on, and the aftermarket offerings to upgrade your pony car are nearly endless. Furthermore, an S197 with a 4.6L V8 or later models with a 5.0L Coyote V8 makes excellent power for little money. Still, you might want to respect that power, or you’ll end up eating crowds at Cars & Coffee. 

Is a Subaru Impreza a cheap, cool first car?

The Boxer-engined Subaru WRX is a great option for enthusiasts looking to build a car and join a community. With its distinctive sound and available manual transmissions, the WRX is its own driving experience. Also, you can find a 2015 example for around $20,000, maybe even less if you’re a savvy shopper.

How much does a Porsche Boxster cost?

While newer Porsche Boxsters cost over $50,000, the cars depreciate quickly, meaning you can snag a Boxster for as little as $10,000. While it may have little gremlins to deal with, they’re typically well-made, and finding a better warm-and-fuzzy from a marque’s steering wheel badge is challenging. Although, getting the baby Porsche worked on by a professional could get pricey.

Are Ford Crown Victorias good cars?

While they might not be much to look at, Ford Crown Victorias are all over the country with an exciting prospect: Interceptor Crown Victorias with V8 engines and rear-wheel drive (RWD). If that isn’t enough to sway you, a Crown Victoria has a large, practical interior and tank-like durability. Still, lots of room for friends in your V8 RWD car, making for a pretty cool cheap first car.

The best part: Road & Track says you can find an example for as little as $2,500. However, prospective buyers should remember those police cars generally have a tough service life and often sustain damage. Still, the vehicles were body-on-frame and very simple to repair. Scroll down to the following article to read more about cheap, fast cars!