US News has released a list of 10 performance cars that are affordable in terms of speed and features. Note that not all cars on this list are fast in the traditional sense. In other words, the 0-60 test may not be the most accurate measure of a vehicle's overall speed and performance. Some of these cars show their strength in corners as opposed to drag strips. Let's take a look at the top 5 cars on the list.
2022 Chevrolet Camaro LT1
The Chevrolet Camaro is one of the fastest cars at this price. This model works on General Motors' Alpha platform. The same platform that powers the CT5 and CT4 was first introduced in the Cadillac ATS in 2013 to critical acclaim. This means that any Camaro rides a great chassis and has the potential to be a great performer. The trim chosen by US News for inclusion in this list is LT1.
Car and Driver reports that the LT1 starts at just $35,395. The LT1 is the cheapest way to get your hands on his 455 horsepower behemoth 6.2L V8. US News reports that the LT1 trim not only includes a V8, but has the same optional interior additions as the 3LT, along with upgraded brakes and suspension. With a rating of 8.7/10, it comes in at #5 on this list, but the Camaro 1LT is arguably his one of the best performing bargains of this decade.
2022 Toyota GR Supra
2022 Toyota GR Supra | Toyota
The GR Supra on this list comes in at a fairly reasonable $44,635, Car and Driver reports. The cheapest Supra comes with some concessions. So instead of the now-iconic B58 straight-six, there's a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder.
But while this may be a bummer for purists, don't underestimate the B48. Based on the same engine architecture, his small 4-cylinder produces 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and his 4-cylinder Supra accelerates him to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.
US News reports that the Toyota Supra is much more performance-focused than the BMW Z4.
Unsurprisingly, US News rated Miata the third best on the list with an 8.9/10. Miatas are something special in the modern world of powerful but heavy vehicles. Is the Miata fast? Not exactly, but ND2 he managed 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, Car and Driver reports. 0-60 wasn't the best indicator of a car's ability, but 5.7 seconds is surprisingly quick given the Miata's reputation for being very slow.
Despite its straight-line speed, the Mazda Miatas have won loyal fans for their ability to maintain speed in corners. This has always been achieved through the MX-5's greatest asset: its light weight.
At 2,314 pounds, the 2022 MX-5 is one of the lightest vehicles on the road, according to AutoBlog. Combine this with his standard six-speed manual, comms steering, and $28,715 price tag, and the Miata is one of the fastest cars at its current price point.
The S550 Mustang is recognized as an impressive performer on the street and track. Many enthusiasts love his 2.3L Ecoboost engine with 310 horsepower. For the 2022 Ford Mustang, you can opt for his $6,150 High Performance Package, which includes a high performance engine. The package includes a 3.55 limited slip diff, better cooling, 4-piston calipers and larger rotors, larger rear sway bar, active exhaust, suspension upgrades and a host of interior and exterior upgrades.
It also includes an upgraded 2.3L Ecoboost, which essentially adds 20 horsepower to 330 horsepower and 350 lb-ft, with 0-60 in less than 5 seconds, Automobile Catalog reports. Not bad for $35,015.
Mid-engine, naturally aspirated 495 hp V8, DCT, 0-60s 2.8s, $62,295 price tag? Yeah, so surprising that the 2022 Corvette tops the list, scoring a 9.4/10 from US News not. Don't hold your breath waiting to get your MSRP. But given the amount of money car owners receive, it might be worth doing a bit of a "market adjustment" perhaps.
A base Cayman or Boxster sells for about the same price as the Vet, but the 2.0L-based motor makes nearly 200 horsepower, four cylinders down from the classic American nameplate. Supercar performance for sports car money, Chevrolet has it covered.
the golden age of lovers
Yes, many cars no longer offer manual transmissions and almost every car on the road seems to have a 2.0L turbo. But having so many enthusiastic vehicles at all price points should put a smile on our community's faces.
