Every enthusiast at some point has contemplated going to a track day. It is one of those inevitable life events all gearheads go through; kind of like puberty for car lovers. The question following that epiphany is " how can I make this happen?". The steps behind doing a track day aren't complicated: find a track day, go there, and go around the track.
But the actual logistics behind are actually quite different and much more complicated. And the question of which car to use aside, there are quite a few aspects to worry about, ranging from the state of the tires, the brakes, safety equipment, and how you'll get home in case of an accident.
But at the end of the day, the most important decision is still which car to use. Do you have a daily, or a weekend car, or for the lucky few a dedicated sports car for the track? If you are looking for a track car, we can help with that by offering you a list of the best budget track cars from recent years attainable for 20,000$ or less.
10 Scion FRS
A clear choice for an inexpensive track car, Toyota/Subaru basically built the FRS for this very purpose. This small light coupe sports car is perfect for putting in a few track days every other weekend and with the availability of rear-seat it also works a daily car for those without an extensive family. Having won multiple car of the year awards when it first came out, the FRS is still on the buyer's radar. Being already a low-cost option when new, a few years later a good used example can now be found under the 10 grand mark.
9 Mazda MX-5
Quite possibly the best and most obvious choice when it comes to a budget track car. The Mazda Miata is by far and away the best beginner sports car to visit a track with. Its extremely light body and predictable handling characteristics make it easy to deal with.
It is also easy on the breaks and tires and has plenty of aftermarket support if you decide to get more serious about your hobby. Really any of the four generations can fit your needs, depending on your budget. Although we recommend a first or second generation, as they generally the least expensive and best option.
8 Subaru Impreza WRX STI
The previous generation WRX STI has depreciated enough to make it a solid option to buy as a hobby car. A fantastic option for those that want to get into the track racing hobby but are wary of RWD vehicles, the Subaru symmetrical AWD system would easily make the newest of us look like heroes. It offers close to 300 horsepower and torque, to satisfy the need for speed without being a handful at the limit, just beware of the slight understeer.
7 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
The discontinued fan-favorite Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, and forever rival of the STI above, is by far one of the easiest to drive sports car ever made. With a similar spec sheet as the Subaru equivalent, the Evolution can do it all and more. Its overly sophisticated AWD system can make your track dream come true whether it is a tarmac track and even a dirt track this sports sedan can handle it all. Its ability to find grip is one of the best in the business.
6 Subaru BRZ
Sister car to the FRS above, the BRZ is Subaru's version of their co-developed sports car with Toyota. With exactly the same spec sheet, the choice would come down to your personal brand and esthetics preferences. Although if you take depreciation into account the BRZ might give you slightly more bang for the buck. Granted the BRZ has a few more special edition models for those who are into that.
5 Nissan 370Z
The last of the true analog sports car on the market. Partly due to the fact that it was been on said market for over a decade. The Nissan 370Z was around long enough to be loved, hated, and back to loved again. The 370Z offers a 3.7L naturally aspirated V6 that is good for 332 HP and 269 LB-FT of torque, making it a very capable track car hitting sixty in 4.7 seconds. If your goal is just to be fast but also be one with the machine, this might be a good option for your needs.
4 Ford Mustang GT
But if your goal is simple power and more power, there is another naturally aspirated RWD monster on the block. The Ford Mustang here is a very capable sports car with the power to match. Its 5.0L V8 with an impressive 412 HP and 390 LB-FT of torque means the Mustang has more than enough power to get you around the track. Just be careful of the oversteer on your way out. As long as you are careful, you will be rewarded with a fantastic experience and soundtrack.
3 Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE
The American muscle cars have come a long way since the 60s, what was seen as powerful straight-line machines have grown and evolved into true sports cars that can be seen on track days like any other automotive veterans. The Mustang rival is currently at the top of its game. The Camaro SS is one of the best price bargains in the used car market, with 426 HP and 420 LB-FT it wins the spec sheet war against the Mustang. If you can score one with a 1LE package you will be more than set to take on the finest sports car out there.
2 Fiat 124
The simple reason as to why the FIAT 124 is a good option, is simply because it is basically a Mazda MX-5 with a FIAT body on it. Most of the car is structurally the same with minor differences. Everything the Mazda can offer the FIAT can do the same or at least almost the same. Since the FCA has a hard time selling them, you might just get a crazy good bargain on an almost new one, if you are lucky you might even find a cheap Abarth variant.
1 Volkswagen Golf GTI
If you want to combine your daily driver and your track car, there might be no better than the Volkswagen Golf GTI. This hatchback is the most perfect all-rounder money can buy, with both three and five-door models the GTI can meet your needs. It is powered by a turbo 4 cylinder with 217 HP and 238 LB-FT of torque. Giving you speed and one of the best handling FWD characteristics on the market.