The Best Cheap Cars for Track Days: Affordable Thrills for Performance Enthusiasts

For many driving enthusiasts, track days represent the ultimate automotive experience—pushing a car to its limits in a controlled environment without the constraints of public roads. However, the idea of tracking a car often conjures images of expensive sports cars and high-maintenance performance machines. The good news? You don’t need a six-figure supercar to enjoy spirited driving on a circuit. Many affordable, budget-friendly cars offer excellent handling, reliability, and tuning potential, making them perfect for track days without breaking the bank.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best cheap cars for track days, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and why they’re ideal for drivers who want maximum thrills at minimal cost.

1. Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA/NB/NC/ND)

Price Range: $3,000 – $30,000 (depending on generation and condition)

No list of affordable track cars would be complete without the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Revered for its lightweight chassis, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and near-perfect weight distribution, the Miata is a favorite among amateur racers and professional drivers alike.

Why It’s Great for Track Days:

• Lightweight (under 2,500 lbs in early models) – Less weight means better acceleration, braking, and cornering.
• RWD Balance – Predictable handling makes it forgiving for beginners yet engaging for experts.
• Huge Aftermarket Support – From suspension upgrades to forced induction, the Miata can be transformed into a track monster.
• Reliability – Simple, durable engines (1.6L, 1.8L, 2.0L) mean fewer mechanical headaches.

Best Choice: The NA (1990-1997) and NB (1999-2005) models are the most budget-friendly, while the ND (2016-present) offers modern refinements.

2. Honda Civic Type R (EP3, FN2, FK8, FL5)

Price Range: $5,000 – $40,000

While the latest FL5 Civic Type R is far from “cheap,” older models like the EP3 (2001-2005) and FN2 (2007-2011) offer fantastic front-wheel-drive performance at a fraction of the cost.

Why It’s Great for Track Days:

• High-Revving VTEC Engines – The K20/K24 engines are tunable and robust.
• Sharp Handling – Well-balanced chassis with limited torque steer for a FWD car.
• Affordable Parts – Honda’s vast aftermarket means upgrades are plentiful and inexpensive.

Best Choice: The EP3 Civic Type R is a cult classic, offering raw driving engagement at an attainable price.

3. Ford Fiesta ST (Mk7, 2014-2019)

Price Range: $10,000 – $20,000

The Fiesta ST is one of the most fun hot hatches ever made. Its small size, turbocharged 1.6L engine, and nimble handling make it a blast on tight circuits.

Why It’s Great for Track Days:

• Exceptional Steering Feel – One of the best FWD steering setups ever.
• Torquey Turbo Engine – 197 hp is plenty for its size, and tuning potential is high.
• Lightweight & Agile – Weighs just over 2,700 lbs, making it easy to throw into corners.

Best Choice: The Mk7 Fiesta ST (2014-2019) is the sweet spot for affordability and performance.

4. BMW E36/E46 3 Series (1990-2006)

Price Range: $2,000 – $15,000

Older BMWs like the E36 (1990-1999) and E46 (1999-2006) 3 Series offer rear-wheel-drive dynamics, strong inline-six engines, and excellent chassis balance.

Why It’s Great for Track Days:

• RWD + 50/50 Weight Distribution – A driver’s car through and through.
• Strong Aftermarket Support – Suspension, brakes, and engine mods are widely available.
• Durable Engines – The M50/M52 (E36) and M54 (E46) are reliable with proper maintenance.

Best Choice: The E36 328i or M3 (if budget allows) and E46 330i are fantastic track-ready options.

5. Subaru BRZ / Toyota 86 (2013-Present)

Price Range: $10,000 – $30,000

The BRZ/86 was designed as an affordable RWD sports car, and it delivers with precise handling and a low center of gravity.

Why It’s Great for Track Days:

• Perfect Chassis Balance – Low weight and rear-wheel drive make it incredibly fun.
• Naturally Aspirated Boxer Engine – Smooth power delivery, though some find it underpowered (fixable with mods).
• Modern Yet Affordable – Newer than most cars on this list, yet still reasonably priced.

Best Choice: The first-gen (2013-2020) models are now available at great prices.

6. Volkswagen Golf GTI (Mk5, Mk6, Mk7)

Price Range: $5,000 – $25,000

The Golf GTI is the quintessential hot hatch—practical, fun, and capable on track.

Why It’s Great for Track Days:

• Turbocharged Power – The EA888 engine (Mk7) is tunable to 300+ hp with simple mods.
• Great Front-End Grip – Well-engineered FWD dynamics.
• Daily-Drivable – Comfortable enough for the street, sporty enough for the track.

Best Choice: The Mk7 GTI (2015-2020) offers the best blend of performance and value.

Final Thoughts: What Makes a Great Cheap Track Car?

When shopping for an affordable track car, prioritize:
✅ Lightweight – Less weight = better performance.
✅ Good Handling – A balanced chassis is more important than raw power.
✅ Reliability – Avoid money pits with expensive parts.
✅ Aftermarket Support – Easy and cheap upgrades extend track longevity.

Whether you choose a Miata, Civic Type R, Fiesta ST, BMW 3 Series, BRZ/86, or Golf GTI, each of these cars delivers exhilarating performance without draining your bank account.

Which One Would You Pick?

Let us know in the comments—what’s your dream budget track weapon? 🚗💨