Cheap Modern Cars: 9 Models That Are Well-Worth the Pricetag

You might say that cars are no longer any fun, thanks to the deluge of crossovers. While that might be partially true, the fact is automakers are still putting out some vehicles for those who crave great driving on a daily basis. If you want to see these kinds of models on the market, support the effort and seriously consider buying one of the following excellent options.Toyota GT86/Scion FR-SThe Scion brand is on its way out, but the FR-S will live on as a Toyota like it has been everywhere else in the world. That's great, because Toyota has actually become fun again with this little sports coupe. While some people have called the engine anemic, what they don't get is that the FR-S isn't about brutish ability. The chassis is incredibly well-balanced, making it a blast to throw around turns in rapid succession.If you still don't like the low peak horsepower and torque, there's always the option of throwing on forced induction. Both supercharger and turbocharger kits are available for the car, with tuners achieving some pretty amazing results with them.Subaru BRZThis car was actually developed with Toyota, making the BRZ the close cousin of the Scion/Toyota FR-S. That means it's a blast to drive through tight turns. Its boxer engine also takes to modifications well, making it a great option for those who love to tinker.While the differences between the BRZ and FR-S are few, the Subaru is actually slightly better equipped, making it the better choice. Still, you can't go wrong with either car.Ford MustangThe old American pony car has entered a new generation that's quite a bit different. It's lighter and has an independent suspension, which helps the Mustang actually attack turns and not nose-dive like crazy. The regular V-6 model is pretty good and cheap, while the EcoBoost is slightly better, but comes at a fairly steep price increase. For cheap power, the GT with its monstrous V-8 is a great deal, if you can afford the cost.Like with past versions of the Mustang, the current generation can be customized a fair number of ways out of the factory. There's also a whole cottage industry that makes modifications for Mustangs, so you can make the car genuinely yours.Chevrolet CamaroIf you're going to throw the Mustang on a list of fun cars, not including the Camaro just wouldn't be right. The current generation of the muscle car is arguably more potent and capable than its favorite rival. Of course, people will argue about that for hours, so we'll just leave it at that.The great thing is the Camaro is also relatively cheap, if you go for the base model. The price climbs quickly as you add a more potent engine and other upgrades, but the overall value is still there. In the end it just depends on how much you want to spend and get in return.Dodge ChallengerMight as well round out the three big American muscle cars right now with the Challenger. MOPAR folks get bent out of shape if Ford and Chevy are featured in a list like this, if Dodge gets snubbed. The Challenger is a legitimate performance car for a relatively budget-friendly price. This is especially true with models that pack a Hemi V-8. Of course the Hellcat version is the most insane type of Challenger you can get, and is an incredible value.Beyond just performance, the Challenger is probably the best daily driver modern American muscle car. It's not too harsh, the interior is surprisingly spacious and you can get quite a few creature comforts if you go with certain models/options packages.Mazda MiataMiata is the answer to everything, right? Not really, but when it comes to cheap fun with a modern car, it's one great option to consider. The last generation was a little disappointing since it was also on the portly side. Thankfully, Mazda applied a bunch of lightweighting techniques to trim the roadster down to a more manageable curb weight. It also struck almost a perfect weight distribution between the front and rear, and that translates into incredible handling.While the little four-banger under the hood isn't too powerful, the thing is spunky enough to make for some fun times. While you might not be smoking anybody in a drag race, this is the car to use for a curvy road or track.Fiat 124 SpiderIt's not quite out yet, but it will be soon enough. This spicy little Italian is based on the same platform as the new Miata, so that means it should handle like a champion. On top of that, its powertrain is more potent, so it'll satisfy your need for explosive acceleration better. And it's a pretty cheap little roadster.Many people prefer the looks of the Fiat versus the Mazda. It definitely has a different persona, which is quite appropriate. All of this should translate into a lot of fun, even if you're just going for a lazy Sunday afternoon drive.Hyundai Genesis CoupeFifteen years ago it would be unthinkable that a Korean car would land on a list of fun modern vehicles. Times have definitely changed, and so has Hyundai. While the company is getting ready to spin off the Genesis for a new luxury line, you can get the current Coupe version of the car for a relatively low price.While it's not the most refined option when it comes to handling or interior appointments, there's no denying that the Genesis Coupe is fun to whip around.Nissan 370ZThe current Z-Car is controversial, to say the least. It's not the most affordable option on this list, and it's not the most fun, either. Still, if you're looking for some thrills behind the wheel, you might find that you like the dynamics of the 370Z.It should be noted that Nissan has created a sport car that, while getting a little long in the tooth, serves up some razor-sharp handling. The engine is a little ragged when pushed, plus the interior can be noisy and cramped. Still, the 370Z a lot cheaper to buy than a GT-R.

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