All posts tagged sports auto

Everyone wants to own a sports car. It doesn’t matter if you’re 15 or 50 because sports cars appeal to people of all ages. They’re fast, fun, and generally quite eye-catching, so what’s not to like about them? The price tag. Most sports cars make buyers consider taking out a second mortgage, but there are some gems out there that can be had without making you blue in the face for depleting all of your green.

1. 2014 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

When it comes to performance vehicles, German engineering reigns supreme. The 2014 Jetta GLI is the perfect example of a modest-looking car that packs a surprising punch underneath the hood. The GLI’s got a 2.0-liter turbocharged V4 that produces 210 horsepower. The car just about lifts off when the accelerator is pushed, but most people would never suspect that just by looking at it. For a little more than $24,000, you can have a Jetta of your own.

2. 2014 Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 is a sporty little devil that usually slips under the radars of most sports cars enthusiasts because it technically isn’t one. However, the compact sedan has many features that they look for including aggressive exterior and interior styling, excellent handling, and quick acceleration. The 2014 model is equipped with a 2.0-liter V4 that puts out 155 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. With front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission, the agile and fuel-efficient Mazda 3 can be had for a base price of under $18,000. The hatchback version will probably be more appealing to fans of sports cars.

3. 2014 Mazda 6

The big brother of the Mazda 3 doesn’t sacrifice performance for an increase in size. The 2014 Mazda 6 drives smoothly, accelerates with authority, and feels very athletic overall. This spacious sports sedan was also redesigned for 2014 like the more compact 3, and both models look similar in a great way. A sleek and seductive body with curves in all the right places describes the Mazda 6 perfectly. Under the hood, the car sports a 2.5-liter V4 capable of 184 horsepower at 5,700 rpm. Cabin design and materials are both top notch for a car of this price. Expect to pay a very reasonable $22,000 to $29,000 for this excellent vehicle.

4. 2014 Ford Focus ST

The hatchback style is synonymous with sportiness, and the Ford Focus ST is just that. Small, extremely maneuverable, and very satisfying to drive, the ST is everything a sports car lover would want in something that isn’t. A 2.0-liter V4 is standard for the ST, and this 252 horsepower engine can get you and this little hatchback around town with very little effort. It’s hard to spend $24,000 in a better way when you’re shopping for a sporty ride.

5. 2014 Hyundai Veloster

Many sports cars look like they came from the future. The Hyundai Veloster definitely fits that description. Aside from killer looks, inside and out, the Veloster drives like a much more expensive car. With impeccable handling and more than adequate speed, the Veloster and its 201 horsepower, 1.6-liter V4 engine feel like they belong on the race track. At just below $22,000, it will surely give you the feel of a true sports car without breaking your bank.

Dedicated sports cars are nice, but they’re often too spendy. You can get a very similar experience with something less costly if you know where to look. The choices above should satisfy anyone with the occasional need for an adrenaline rush.

Chaleigh is a freelance writer that lives in NYC. She enjoys writing and lifestyle photography. She writes about anything from driving a mazda 6 in Kansas City to, to to how to properly how to fix your slice in golf. In her spare time she likes to take pictures, snowboard, golf, and play ice hockey.