Seven of the Best Cheap Mid-Engine Sports Cars
Looking for that mid-engine driving experience on a budget? These are the cars for you.
We asked you on Friday what’s the best cheap mid-engine sports car out there. As always, there were a ton of responses, but here are the answers we saw repeated the most.
Mazda Autozam AZ-1 / Suzuki Cara
Now that the AZ-1 is eligible for import into the US, it’s becoming highly desirable. The car’s mid-engine layout and gullwing doors combined with its tiny footprint make it a joy to drive. Prices are hovering around $10,000-$15,000 now, but expect those numbers to climb over time.
Toyota MR2
Of course the MR2 is on this list. Go on Craigslist anywhere and odds are you’ll find one for about the same price as an old Miata. Plus, thanks to that Toyota reliability, you won’t have to worry about dumping money into keeping it on the road.
Pontiac Fiero
Okay, hear us out. The Fiero might not be known for its driving attributes, but there’s arguably nothing cheaper you can buy that has its engine mounted in the middle. Plus, it looks pretty cool.
Fiat X1/9
Fiat X1/9s are getting harder and harder to come by nowadays, but running and driving examples can still be found for less than $10,000 if you know where to look. For a mid-engine Bertone-designed targa-top classic, that sounds like a deal to us.
Porsche 914
For the longest time, no one wanted to own a 914. The polarizing looks used to scare people away, but these days, collectors are paying close to six figures for six-cylinder examples. The cheaper, slower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder models can still be had for relatively little money, though.
First-Generation Porsche Boxster
While people have warmed to the looks of the 914, the same can’t be said of the 986-generation Boxster. Used examples with some mileage can easily be had for under ten grand, and for that, you get a super capable mid-engine track car right out of the box.
First-Generation Porsche Cayman
While people have warmed to the looks of the 914, the same can’t be said of the 986-generation Boxster. Used examples with some mileage can easily be had for under ten grand, and for that, you get a super capable mid-engine track car right out of the box.
Originally written by Brian Silvestro for Road & Track.
(http://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/g14405185/best-cheap-mid-engine-cars/)
To receive stories in your inbox every week, sign up for our weekly newsletter here.
Check out the more than 8,000 car listings on My Classic Garage.
Click here for information on financing for classic cars from Woodside Credit.
Click here for information on collector car insurance from TDC Risk Management.
Click here for information on transporting classic cars from Plycar.
