Ah, the world of expensive sports cars, where speed, luxury, and prestige blend seamlessly to create automotive masterpieces. In this realm, the price tags are as breathtaking as the performance they deliver. But who says you need a massive bank balance to experience the exhilaration of a mid-engined marvel?

In this article, we’ll be exploring some lesser-known options that have proven their worth in the world of car aficionados. From unsung heroes to classics, these budget-friendly mid-engine cars deliver a fantastic driving experience.

So, if you’re on the hunt for an affordable ride that packs a punch and offers true driving joy, look no further. Let’s dive in and discover the world of mid-engined pocket rockets that won’t empty your wallet and will keep your heart racing on the road!

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10 Honda Beat

Average price: $9,000

The Honda Beat, often referred to as the “Baby Honda S2000,” holds a special place in automotive history as a rear-wheel-drive, mid-engined two-seat roadster kei car. What makes it even more remarkable is that it was the last car personally approved by Soichiro Honda before he passed away in 1991.

This charming and compact roadster exudes a sporty and fun vibe, with its low and sleek profile that hugs the road like a precision driver. The design, originally crafted by Pininfarina, captivates with its simplicity yet eye-catching appeal, adorned with smooth curves that add an aerodynamic touch.

Performance

Under its petite hood lies a peppy 656cc three-cylinder engine, which might seem small, even smaller than some motorcycles. However, don’t be fooled by its size, as this tiny beast can rev up to high heavens, emitting a surprisingly satisfying growl as it zips down the road. It may not be the fastest car around, but driving the Honda Beat is undeniably a thrilling and joyful experience.

9 Pontiac Fiero

Average price: $12,000

n the late 1970s, the United States found itself grappling with its first significant gas crisis, seeking solutions to improve fuel efficiency and meet the country’s fuel economy requirements. It was during the dawn of the 1980s that Pontiac, embarked on an ambitious mission: to create a revolutionary automobile that would combine the thrill of a sports car with the practicality of a compact commuter. The result of their vision was the Pontiac Fiero.

Derived from the Italian words meaning “proud” or “wild,” the Fiero truly embodied its name. Designed by George Milidrag and Hulki Aldikacti, this remarkable vehicle was conceived as an economical commuter car with aspirations of modest performance.

The Fiero broke new ground for Pontiac in multiple ways. It marked their return to producing a two-seater since the era of coupes from 1926 to 1938, and more notably, it became the first rear mid-engine car ever mass-produced by any American manufacturer, a true milestone in automotive history.

Performance

In order to meet the strict Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards in the United States, the Fiero was made available with both 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder engines, effectively finding a middle ground between performance and fuel efficiency.

A standout feature of the Fiero was its innovative construction. Unlike conventional steel-bodied cars, the Fiero utilized composite panels composed of plastic reinforced with fiberglass. This lightweight material not only contributed to the car’s unique selling proposition but also aimed to enhance fuel-efficiency, aligning perfectly with the nation’s newfound energy-conscious approach.

The Fiero 2M4, equipped with a four-cylinder engine, garnered widespread recognition, earning a spot onCar and Driver magazine’s esteemed 10 Best list for 1984. Additionally, the same year, it was proudly designated as the Official Pace Car for the prestigious Indianapolis 500, further solidifying its status as an outstanding and celebrated automobile.

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8 Mazda Autozam AZ-1

Average price: $13,000

A lot like the Honda Beat the Mazda Autozam AZ-1, was a mid-engined kei-class sports car. It was created and engineered by Mazda as part of their Autozam brand, and it showcases a distinctive array of features.

Powering this compact sports car is a Suzuki-sourced 657 cc turbocharged engine, the same one used in the Suzuki Alto, capable of producing 63 horsepower. Interestingly, Suzuki later released its own version, the Suzuki Cara, under its badge-engineered lineup.

Performance

One of the most eye-catching aspects of the Autozam AZ-1 is its gull-wing doors, which are particularly uncommon for a car of its size and class. These distinctive doors not only contribute to the car’s aesthetic appeal but also serve a practical purpose, making parking in tight spots much more manageable. With its exceptional design and nimble performance, the Mazda Autozam AZ-1 stands as a remarkable representative of the kei-class sports car category.

7 Fiat X1/9

Average price: $13,000

The Fiat X1/9, introduced in 1972, served as a successor to the rear-engine Fiat 850 Spider. This remarkable vehicle swiftly gained fame as one of the earliest accessible and cheap mid-engine sports cars, offering an affordable option to enthusiasts. Designed by Bertone and manufactured by Fiat, this two-seater mid-engined sports car was praised for its remarkable features. Fitted with a transverse engine and gearbox, the car adopted a mid-mounted, rear-wheel drive setup and offered exceptionally balanced handling.

The Fiat X1/9’s appearance was undeniably eye-catching. Drawing inspiration from contemporary power-boat design, the Runabout variant featured a distinctive wedge shape that captured attention wherever it went. The credit for its wedge-like styling goes to the renowned Lamborghini Miura designer Marcello Gandini at Bertone.

Performance

By 1974, the X1/9 reached the shores of the United States, showcasing improved adaptations of the Fiat 128’s MacPherson strut suspension and housing a 67-horsepower 1.3-liter inline four-cylinder engine, skillfully crafted under the supervision of Aurelio Lampredi.

The Fiat X1/9 struck the perfect balance in terms of size, making it compact enough to fit into tight parking spaces, yet nimble enough to navigate corners with the grace of a Fiat-fueled ballet dancer. Notably, it was the first Fiat designed from the ground up to comply with the stringent US safety regulations, which emphasized its commitment to safety.

6 Honda S660

Average price: $15,000

The Honda S660 is a delightful lightweight mid-engined roadster, boasting a targa roof and dimensions that closely align with the 1990s Beat, owing to kei car size restrictions. As the successor to both the iconic Honda Beat and the renowned Honda S2000, it embraces a transverse mid-engine layout and rear-wheel-drive configuration.

Performance

Under its compact hood, the S660 houses the turbocharged 658 cc S07A engine, the same motor utilized in the popular N-Box kei car. With some mechanical enhancements, this engine generates a modest yet satisfying 63 horsepower. While it may lack the sheer power of larger engines, it perfectly complements the S660’s lightweight construction, making it agile and nimble on the roads.

But what truly sets the S660 apart is the unparalleled driving experience it offers. Its main appeal lies in the pure joy of driving, inviting enthusiasts to forge a deep connection between the car and the road.

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5 Toyota MR2

Average price: $15,000

Toyota’s MR2 is a famous series of two-seat, mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports cars produced in Japan and distributed worldwide by Toyota over three generations. Its origins trace back to a 1976 Toyota design project with a clear objective: to create a car that would deliver an enjoyable driving experience while still maintaining good fuel economy.

Throughout its evolution, the MR2 consistently embodied the concept of a “Midship Runabout-Sports” (MRS), with its engine positioned midship for optimal weight distribution and handling prowess. The third-generation MR2, also known as the Toyota MR-S in Japan and the Toyota MR2 Spyder in the US, was an embodiment of this philosophy.

Performance

Under the hood of the MR2 MR-S, there lay a 138 horsepower all-aluminum alloy 1.8-liter inline-four engine, providing a perfect balance of power and efficiency. Complemented by a finely-tuned suspension and a precise rack-and-pinion steering system, the MR2 offered a nimble and agile ride that turned driving into an exhilarating experience, especially when navigating winding roads and carving through corners.

While the MR2’s sporty nature delighted many enthusiasts, it also managed to surprise with its practicality. Despite being a two-seater sports car, the MR2 featured a reasonably spacious front trunk, affectionately known as the “frunk,” enabling drivers to carry some luggage or essentials along for the journey.

4 Lotus Europa S 2nd Gen

Average price: $24,000

The Lotus Europa S is a captivating two-seat mid-engine sports car designed to offer a more comfortable and refined driving experience compared to the driver-centric Lotus Elise. Embracing the theme of ‘business class,’ its sleek and sophisticated design features smoother, understated lines, departing from the bold and sporty styling of the Elise.

Step inside the cabin, and you’ll be greeted by a tasteful blend of luxury and simplicity. The cozy leather seats wrap around you snugly, fostering a sense of intimacy with the car’s performance-focused design. The cockpit layout is purposeful, placing essential controls within easy reach, ensuring the driving experience remains the central focus.

Though the interior exudes elegance, it’s essential to note that practicality takes a backseat in the Lotus Europa S. This sports car is not designed for carrying large loads or accommodating passengers with ample legroom. Instead, it’s all about the sheer pleasure of driving.

Performance

The true brilliance of the Lotus Europa S shines through its exceptional handling. With its lightweight chassis and responsive steering, the car becomes a precision instrument, allowing you to slice through corners with unparalleled agility. Each turn becomes a thrilling and engaging experience, leaving drivers exhilarated and craving for more.

3 Ferrari Mondial

Average price: $35,000

The Ferrari Mondial is a remarkable mid-engined, V-8-powered grand tourer, boasting a unique place within Ferrari’s distinguished stable. Crafted with the artistic touch of Pininfarina and featuring bodywork by Carrozzeria Scaglietti, its design exudes a perfect blend of style and performance.

The Mondial is quite a unique car. It’s a 2+2 grand tourer, which means it can seat four people, but let’s be honest, those rear seats are probably best suited for adventurous toddlers or fashionable handbags. Nonetheless, it’s a prancing horse with some family-friendly perks.

Performance

At the heart of this automotive legend lies a potent 3.2-liter V-8 engine, strategically positioned behind the seats. This setup not only delivers thrilling and recognizable Ferrari exhaust notes but also ensures impressive performance and acceleration, making every drive a captivating experience.

True, the Ferrari Mondial might not be everyone’s preference, but for those who have fallen in love with its quirky characteristics and undeniable charisma, it has cemented itself as a timeless classic. With a permanent spot in the pantheon of automotive greatness, the Mondial continues to evoke passion and admiration from aficionados worldwide.

2 Porsche 914

Average price: $40,000

The Porsche 914, also known as the VW-Porsche 914, is a mid-engined sports car that resulted from a collaborative effort between Volkswagen and Porsche. It was designed, manufactured, and marketed jointly by both companies. The project originated from different motives: Porsche aimed to create a more affordable and distinct model to replace its 912, while Volkswagen sought to produce a halo car that would stand out from its typical lineup of the Beetle, Bus, and Fastback.

Drawing inspiration from the Porsche 911’s front suspension, the 914 incorporated some components from Volkswagen as well. Inside the car, the interior was also a clever combination of parts from both companies’ inventory, creating a unique and cohesive design.

Performance

One of the remarkable features of the Porsche 914 was its diverse engine options. Instead of a conventional Porsche engine, the car offered a range of choices akin to a buffet of horsepower delights. Among these options was a flat-four engine borrowed from the VW Type 4, providing a solid performance. For those seeking a more thrilling experience, a beefier flat-six engine, sourced from Porsche’s own 911, was available as an enticing alternative.

Upon its initial release, the car received a somewhat lukewarm response. However, it gained appreciation over time, with MotorTrend being one of the car’s enthusiasts. In fact, the magazine honored the Porsche 914 with its first-ever Import Car of the Year title in 1970. The editors praised its exceptional handling, considering it one of the best-handling machines they had ever driven.

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1 Alfa Romeo 4C

Average price: $55,000

In March 2011, Alfa Romeo revealed their impressive 4C concept version at the 81st Geneva Motor Show, wowing attendees and igniting the excitement of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. Designed by the talented team at Centro Stile Alfa Romeo and developed by Alfa Romeo, the 4C Concept received well-deserved recognition. It received the ‘Most Beautiful Concept Car of the Year’ award from the readers of the German magazine Auto Bild and scored the Auto Bild Design Award 2011, confirming its allure and aesthetic appeal.

Performance

When it was released the Alfa Romeo 4C impressed drivers around the globe with its agile and responsive performance. Thanks to its lightweight carbon fiber monocoque chassis and aluminum subframes, the car felt poised and well-connected to the road, giving drivers a level of precision they truly appreciated.

Peeking under the hood the Alfa Romeo 4C packs a turbocharged 1.75-liter inline-four engine that produces an impressive 240 horsepower. It’s like a shot of espresso for the road – quick, energizing, and exhilarating. The engine propels the 4C from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4.5 seconds. The car’s impressive acceleration and power delivery make it a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts seeking a thrilling drive at a fairly attainable price.