The words 'fast' and 'cheap' mean very different things, depending on who you speak to. So, when compiling a list of fast cars that can be had for a low price, we have to set some parameters. Since reasonably specified new budget cars can cost nearly R200 000 now in 2023, that will be our approximate budget. When defining 'fast', we will only include products designed with sporty driving in mind!
The caveat here, and something everyone buying a pre-owned performance car must be cognisant of, is wear and tear, increased maintenance costs and the car's history. Sporty cars are generally driven harder than your everyday vehicles, and even though they are designed for this, a pre-owned product could become expensive.
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Our top picks
Mazda MX-5- The recipe is simple: rear-wheel drive, a manual gearbox, a distinct lack of weight and an emphasis on well-weighted driver controls. The MX-5 might not be fast in a modern sense, but it is a joy to drive and relatively cheap to own and maintain!
Suzuki Swift Sport- At the price point, the Swift in question will be the ZC32S or AZG416, a second-generation model with a 1.6-litre high-revving naturally aspirated petrol engine, a manual gearbox, solid brakes and grin-inducing handling. These are cheap to service and are amazing fun!
Renault Megane RS- Many Megane II models can be had for far less than our budget today, but it's the third generation that we're interested in today. It presents a fast, circuit-ready performance hatchback proposition for very little money. Just remember to stay on top of maintenance and do due diligence when buying one of these!
Kia Cerato Koup- The Koup is a tragically underrated performance car, offering straight-line shove and great styling. There's even a turbo thrown in for good measure on the third-generation models, meaning 150kW and 264Nm!
Abarth 500- The adage of dynamite and small packages is particularly apt in this instance, with the tint Fiat 500-based Abarth providing a lot of firepower in a small and relatively cheap package!
Audi TT- The TT has been a sports car icon for over two decades, and sadly, it is no longer being produced; however, there are many to choose from at around the R200 000 mark, mainly from the second generation. You get solid Volkswagen GTI-like mechanicals in a lighter, more agile package and the legendary Audi interior quality!
Nissan 350Z- The 350Z is a performance car icon, being equally adept on a circuit as it is during drifting events. These future classics can be had for relatively little money.
Volkswagen Scirocco- Sadly, there was only one generation of Volkswagen's revived Scirocco model, and it was fantastic, managing to look far more exciting than its Golf sibling, forever cementing its place as a cult car.
Chevrolet Sonic RS- These little Sonics were underappreciated during their time on sale as they managed to be fast and frugal while offering a fun driving experience!
Opel Astra OPC- The Astra OPC, particularly the J-generation, is a fantastic performance hatchback with fantastic handling, great brakes, a strong engine and wonderful looks, all of which are hamstrung by a troublesome gearbox. Still, these are tempting at this price point!
Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV- The Giulietta is a fantastic-looking hatchback, and the QV version adds the performance to match its good looks. These represent so much value for money!
