10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (2024)

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10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (1)

By Brian Nyambura

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Sports Cars

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10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (5)

Sports cars are an embodiment of automotive passion. They ignite the senses with their captivating aesthetics and exhilarating performance. Loved by enthusiasts for generations, most high-octane sports cars prioritize speed and handling over fuel efficiency.

However, there are a few sports cars with a surprising twist in this ever-evolving automotive industry. While they still deliver adrenaline-pumping experiences, they also manage to be surprisingly fuel efficient while sticking below the $30,000 starting price mark.

We've compiled fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov and pricing data from KBB to highlight ten of the most fuel-efficient sports cars under $30,000.

10 2019 Fiat 124 Spider

Starting Used Price Range: $19,597 – $22,048

Despite sharing a platform with the Japanese MX-5 Miata, the Fiat 124 Spider adds a big dose of Italian design, handling, and power. Instead of using Mazda's 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, the Fiat 124 Spider opts for a turbocharged 1.4-liter engine.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Manual)

26 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, 30 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Auto)

25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, 29 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

357 miles (manual), 345 miles (auto)

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,400 (manual), $2,450 (auto)

Tank Capacity

11.9 gallons

The engine produces 160 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, giving it an edge over the same generation MX-5 Miata. Fiat uses a 6-speed manual transmission as standard, sending power to the rear wheels. However, there's also an optional 6-speed automatic transmission. In the used market, the 124 Spider has an amazing starting price of $19,597.

9 2016 BMW Z4

Starting Used Price Range: $24,488 – $28,063

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (7)

The BMW Z4 is designed to offer a perfect blend of style, comfort, open-air fun, handling, performance, and feel. It's a luxury roadster that rivals the Audi TT and Mercedes-Benz SL lineup. For the 2016 model year, the BMW Z4 has a hardtop drop top, a different approach from modern iterations.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Manual)

22 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, 26 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Automatic)

22 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, 26 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

377 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,750

Tank Capacity

14.5 gallons

As standard, the 2016 BMW Z4 used a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This variant also uses a 6-speed manual transmission, sending power to the rear wheels. The more powerful variants, however, have 8-speed automatic and a more responsive 7-speed dual-clutch automatic in the top-end Z4 trim.

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8 2019 BMW 4 Series Coupe

Starting Used Price Range: $24,749 – $27,533

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (9)

The modern BMW 4 Series lineup consists of multiple body styles, including a coupe, convertible, and a four-door Gran Coupe. BMW also offers a high-performance M4 version. The 4 Series lineup offers convertible and coupe versions of the 3 Series sedan.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Auto)

24 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, 27 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Manual)

21 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

427 miles (auto), 395 miles (manual)

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,650 (auto), $2,850 (manual)

Tank Capacity

15.8 gallons

As standard, the 2019 BMW 4 Series coupe and convertible models has a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine sends power to the rear wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. BMW also offers a 6-speed manual transmission.

7 2012 Porsche Boxster

Starting Used Price Range: $25,055 – $28,262

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (10)

The Porsche Boxster is among the few sports cars that is built to be a driver's car. It aims to transmit the visceral thrill of performance, demands driver involvement, and provides infinite levels of fun. The Boxster also has a rear-wheel-drive platform and an open-air experience.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Manual)

19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, 22 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Auto)

20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, 23 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

372 miles (manual), 389 miles (auto)

Annual Fuel Costs

$3,250 (manual), $3,100 (auto)

Tank Capacity

16.9 gallons

As standard, the 2012 Porsche Boxster had a 2.9 liter flat-6 engine with 255 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque. The engine sends power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission as standard. Porsche also offered it with an optional 7-speed PDK automatic.

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6 2021 BMW 2 Series Coupe

Starting Used Price Range: $25,977 – $28,712

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (12)

The BMW 2 Series coupe and convertible models might not have a roomy backseat, but they have a great selection of powerful engines and robust chassis. Also, they were made available in rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations, for utmost satisfaction on curvy roads.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Auto)

25 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, 28 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Manual)

21 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

384 miles (auto), 342 miles (manual)

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,550 (auto), $2,850 (manual)

Tank Capacity

13.7 gallons

For the 2021 model year, the base 2 Series coupe had a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 248 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The engine sends power to the rear wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. For enthusiasts, BMW offered an optional 6-speed manual transmission.

5 2017 Audi TT

Starting Used Price Range: $26,526 – $30,583

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (13)

For the 2017 model year, Audi outfitted the TT with minor updates after the introduction of the third generation in 2016. The package complemented the superb engine lineup, Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive system, and the modern virtual cockpit.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, 26 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

369 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,200

Tank Capacity

14.2 gallons

The Audi TT lineup had an efficient turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with two potencies. The engine produces 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque in the base trim. The TTS trim upped the performance to 292 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. In both versions, the power is sent to all wheels through a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.

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4 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Starting MSRP: $28,050

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (15)

For decades, the MX-5 Miata has offered everything enthusiasts would want for a fun drive. It boasts a smooth, powerful engine, rear-wheel drive, and a well-tuned suspension. For the 2023 model year, the MX-5 Miata gets a reasonable starting price of $28,050.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Manual)

26 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, 29 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Auto)

26 mpg city, 35 mpg highway, 30 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

345 miles (manual), 357 miles (auto)

Annual Fuel Costs

$2,450 (manual), $2,400 (auto)

Tank Capacity

11.9 gallons

Under the hood of the MX-5 Miata sits a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 181 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. The engine sends power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission. Mazda also offers an optional 6-speed automatic on the Grand Touring trim.

3 2018 Mercedes-Benz E Class Coupe

Starting Used Price Range: $28,115 – $31,038

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (16)

Since its inception, the Mercedes-Benz E Class has been the brand's mid-size luxury car. Mercedes-Benz offers multiple body styles, including a sedan, wagon, coupe, and cabriolet. The coupe and cabriolet provide a perfect blend of luxury and performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy

20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, 22 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

383 miles

Annual Fuel Costs

$3,250

Tank Capacity

17.4 gallons

As standard, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz E Class coupe has a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. The engine sends power to the rear wheels as standard through an obedient 9-speed automatic transmission.

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2 2023 Subaru BRZ

Starting MSRP: $28,595

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (18)

The 2023 Subaru BRZ is a two-door sports car with a reasonable starting price of $28,595. The BRZ boasts a potent four-cylinder engine, a perfectly tuned suspension, and a manual transmission for driving enthusiasts.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Manual)

20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, 22 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Auto)

21 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

290 miles (manual), 330 miles (auto)

Annual Fuel Costs

$3,250 (manual), $2,850 (auto)

Tank Capacity

13.2 gallons

Under its hood sits a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine with 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. The engine sends power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission as standard. Subaru also offers a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission.

1 2020 Nissan 370Z

Starting Used Price Range: $28,878 – $32,793

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (19)

For the 2020 model year, Nissan offered the 370Z as a coupe only. It was one of the highly revered sports cars with impressive performance and a low price tag. Fortunately, the Nissan 370Z still firmly retains its value despite the 2020 variant being two years old.

Fuel Economy

Fuel Type

Gasoline

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Manual)

17 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, 20 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Fuel Economy (Auto)

19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, 22 mpg combined

EPA-Estimated Range

380 miles (manual), 418 miles (auto)

Annual Fuel Costs

$3,550 (manual), $3,250 (auto)

Tank Capacity

19.0 gallons

Under its hood sits a 3.7-liter V6 engine with 332 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque. The engine sends power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 7-speed automatic. Nissan also offered a pricier Nismo variant with 350 hp and 276 lb-ft of torque.

Reference List: Edmunds, Subaru, Mazda

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10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Under $30,000 (2024)

FAQs

What car has the most horsepower for under 30k? ›

The Ford Mustang EcoBoost with the automatic transmission can get from zero to 60 mph in around 5 seconds. What car has the most horsepower for under 30K? Now that the turbo-four has been discontinued, the V6 in the base engine in the Chevrolet Camaro makes 335 horsepower, making it the most powerful car on our list.

What is the most economical performance car? ›

The Volkswagen Golf GTI has long been the go-to economical performance car because of its incredible practicality, cornering capabilities, and excellent fuel economy. The GTI is most at home on a twisty country road, but it's also great at driving through cities or on those longer motorway journeys.

What's the best used car for 30k? ›

The 2023 Honda Accord is the best used sedan under $30k; it has an overall score of 9.3 and an average price of $26,874. The best used luxury passenger car under $30k is the 2020 Lexus IS 300 with an iSeeCars rating of 8.9 out of 10 and a price of $29,519.

Which vehicle will normally get the best fuel economy? ›

  • Volkswagen Golf‍ ...
  • Mazda 3. ...
  • Toyota Camry Hybrid. ...
  • Kia K5 Hybrid. ...
  • Honda Accord Hybrid. ...
  • Ford Escape Hybrid. ...
  • Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. ...
  • Lexus UX Hybrid. This luxury compact SUV provides the perfect balance of fuel efficiency, comfort, and refinement.

What car has 5k horsepower? ›

Four years ago, Devel Motors took the automotive world by surprise when it announced plans to build a 5,000-hp hypercar. Dubai's Devel shocked the world four years ago when it announced plans for a 5,000-horsepower, V-16-powered car capable of speeds over 300 mph.

What car has 1200 horsepower? ›

Developed by the dominant F1 team, the RB17 is a track-only hypercar with extreme aerodynamics and a potent V-10 hybrid powertrain. The Red Bull RB17 churns out 1200 horsepower from a V-10 hybrid powertrain.

What is the best gas for sports cars? ›

Premium gas is a 91-octane gasoline designed to fuel high-performance engines. A higher-octane rating means the fuel is better balanced and stabilized against spontaneous combustion, which can cause knocking and damage to a car engine.

Which sports car gives the best mileage? ›

10 Most Fuel-Efficient Sports Cars Of 2023: Drive Quick, Save Gas
  • Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ - 25 MPG. ...
  • Chevrolet Camaro - 25 MPG. ...
  • Ford Mustang EcoBoost - 25 MPG. ...
  • Audi TT - 25 MPG. ...
  • Toyota GR Supra - 28 MPG. ...
  • BMW Z4 - 28 MPG. ...
  • Lexus LC 500h - 29 MPG. ...
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata - 30 MPG. Small, lightweight, affordable, and timeless.
May 3, 2023

Which car is the best fuel saver? ›

Our top 10 most fuel efficient cars of 2024
  • BMW 330e (2019 – onwards) - 201.8-217. ...
  • Mercedes-Benz E300de (2016 – onwards) – 176.6-201.8mpg. ...
  • Vauxhall Corsa (2019 – onwards) – 70.6mpg. ...
  • Škoda Octavia (2020 – onwards) – 67.3mpg. ...
  • Volkswagen Golf (2020 – onwards) – 60.9-63.1mpg. ...
  • Hyundai IONIQ (2019) - 62.8mpg.
Mar 28, 2024

What is the most sought after vehicle right now? ›

  • Toyota RAV4. ...
  • Tesla Model Y. ...
  • Honda CR-V. ...
  • Ram 1500/2500/3500. ...
  • GMC Sierra. ...
  • Toyota Camry. ...
  • Toyota Tacoma. The Tacoma is capable of doing everything from hauling parts to carting around a family to conquering the toughest trails. ...
  • Tesla Model 3. The Tesla Model 3 is the second Tesla and EV to break into the top 10.

How much should I spend on a car if I make 30k? ›

According to our research, you shouldn't spend more than 10% to 15% of your net monthly income on car payments. Your total vehicle costs, including loan payments and insurance, should total no more than 20%.

What is the most reliable vehicle you can buy? ›

Lexus ranks highest overall in vehicle dependability for a second consecutive year, with a score of 135 PP100. Among premium brands, Porsche (175 PP100) ranks second and BMW (190 PP100) ranks third. Toyota ranks highest in the mass market segment, with a score of 147 PP100.

What car gets 70 mpg? ›

Launched in 2019, the Peugeot 208 diesel hybrid is one of the sharper-looking superminis out there. It comes with five doors, fancy LED lights and a 1.5-litre diesel engine that'll return more than 70mpg, officially.

What is the most fuel efficient car in the market right now? ›

2024 Most and Least Efficient Cars
Most Efficient Cars by EPA Size Class (excluding electric vehicles)
EPA ClassVehicleCombined MPG
MidsizeToyota Prius 2.0 L, 4 cyl, Automatic (variable gear ratios) Hybrid57
Large
LargeHonda Accord Hybrid 2.0 L, 4 cyl, Automatic (variable gear ratios) Hybrid48
18 more rows

Which car gives the highest mileage? ›

Top 5 Highest Mileage Cars in India
  • Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara/ Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder. Ranking highest in our list, surprisingly, are two SUVs. ...
  • Honda City e: HEV. Coming to the only sedan on the list, we have the Honda City e: HEV. ...
  • Maruti Suzuki Celerio. ...
  • Maruti Suzuki Swift. ...
  • Maruti Suzuki WagonR.
May 31, 2024

What car has the highest HP? ›

Timeline of most powerful production cars
VehicleYearPower
Koenigsegg Regera20161,119 kW (1,500 hp; 1,521 PS)
Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+/Centodieci2021/20221,176 kW (1,578 hp; 1,600 PS)
Rimac Nevera20221,408 kW (1,888 hp; 1,914 PS)
Koenigsegg Gemera20231,715 kW (2,300 hp; 2,332 PS)
24 more rows

Which car has 6000 horsepower? ›

With a combined output of over 6,000 horsepower, thanks to 12 turbochargers and 64 cylinders, this Bugatti testing day at the Nürburgring is one to remember. The lineup of Bugatti heavy hitters includes one of ten Bugatti Centodieci which is built to pay homage to the Bugatti EB110 supercar of the 1990s.

What car has 4000 horsepower? ›

With the debut of the original Cadillac CTS-V, the Cadillac brand was determined to kick the stereotype of the brand being just for grandparents, and along with edgy styling, the brand's V-series vehicles were marketed at performance enthusiasts of any age.

Does any car have 2000 horsepower? ›

Like most hypercars, the Lotus Evija—pronounced eh-VIE'-ya—is a rare sight. Unlike most hypercars, the Evija has four electric motors that make nearly 2000 horsepower (1972 to be exact).

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