Have you been dreaming of a performance car, but a little tight with the budget? If you’re willing to spend $40K, you can make your dream a reality.

In this piece we are listing the top performance cars that’s within your reach if you got the budget we just mentioned. Every model in this list promises sleek style, superb handling and quality build from famous manufacturers.

If you’re ready to see them, buckle up!

1. Mazda MX-5

If you have a thing for open-top cars, you might want to look at the Mazda MX-5. It’s a rear-wheel-drive model, with an option of either a 1.5L or 2L engine. This ride also gives full control and smooth steering to anyone who drives it.

It’s a two-seater so if you’re a family man, this might not be the car you’re looking for. But make no mistake, its lacking capacity doesn’t diminish its overall beauty.

So if you think this model can get away with it, you’re already a winner with this. For its superb qualities, Mazda MX-5 is worth its starting price of $30K.

2. Mini-Cooper S

This iconic British car never fails to turn heads. But more than its superb and recognizable style, one should know that it’s also a little beast inside. You can opt for a 2L turbo engine which can accommodate your riding style.

It’s available in three-door or five-door and can be styled in a great range of colour options. With its iconic style and workhorse qualities, the Mini-Cooper S is already not bad for a $38K starting price.

If you don’t want to go over budget, just make sure not to give in to the tempting add-ons that are offered when you buy this car.

3. Ford Fiesta ST

If you’re looking at a $27K budget, the Ford Fiesta ST is exactly what you’re looking for. It’s front wheel and manual drive make it exciting and powerful to drive. And for its price, you’re already a winner because Ford Fiesta ST is one of the hottest hot hatches in the market right now.

Make no mistake. It may be cheaper compared to others but its performance is comparable to high-end models. It has good grip and handling which is one of the qualities you must look for in a performance car.

While most car enthusiasts don’t find the Ford Fiesta ST an appealing ride, we still included it here because you can enhance its look with piece-by-piece upgrades. What’s important is that it’s essentially a workhorse and a quality performance car.

4. Toyota 86

Toyota 86 is a revival of a super affordable model that was released in the 80s. The new model is a classic rear-wheel drive which makes it thrilling to control.

Although the Toyota 86 is not the most powerful car in this list, it’s still a good option for a performance car. It’s easy to handle and has sheer mechanical balance that’s way ahead of other models in its bracket.

The model is priced at $30K, which is not bad for a solid performance ride like the Toyota 86. You can spend anything that’s left on the budget to muscle up your car right away with stylish and durable Toyota body kits. That makes spending $40K in one go all worth it!

These are only some of the best performance cars that we can think of off the top of our heads. We’re sure there are still many models out there that need attention. But for now, these cars are already solid options for the budget that you have.
If you’re willing to go beyond $40K, we’re pretty sure we can give you a long list of beauties that we can recommend. But for now, we’re sticking to this list.