Top 5 trackday cars for under $5.000 in 2024

Track day cars don’t have to be expensive. In fact, there are a number of great track day cars that can be had for under $5.000. While these cars may not have all the bells and whistles of their more expensive counterparts, they’re still great machines for getting around a track quickly and safely. So if you’re looking to get into track days, but don’t want to break the bank, check out some of these great track day cars under 5000 dollars.

1. Honda Civic Type-R

Pros: The Civic Type R is the perfect track day car. It’s lightweight, nimble, and incredibly fast. Plus, it has a high-revving engine that sounds amazing. The Type R is also very well-balanced, making it easy to drive hard on the track. And thanks to its advanced suspension and brakes, it can handle all the abuse you can throw at it. In short, the Civic Type R is the perfect track day car for anyone who wants to go fast and have a lot of fun.

Cons: Civic Type R is a track-focused car and it’s incredible on the track. However, there are a few cons that come with this car. Firstly, the ride is quite harsh, so it’s not the best choice for a daily driver. Secondly, the engine is quite loud, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a quiet car. Finally, the fuel economy is not great, so it’s important to keep this in mind if you’re looking for a fuel-efficient car. Overall, the Civic Type R is an incredible track car but it has a few drawbacks that should be considered before purchasing.

2. Mazda MX-5

Pros: The Mazda MX5 is a popular choice for track days and racing thanks to its lightweight design and agile handling. With cornering speeds that would make a Porsche 911 blush, the MX-5 can turn even the most experienced driver into a giggling child. The MX5 is also relatively inexpensive, making it a great option for budget-minded enthusiasts. And because the MX5 is so popular, there’s a large aftermarket community that provides support and parts for the car. Whether you’re looking to make your MX5 faster or just make it look more unique, there’s probably a modification out there for you. So if you’re looking for a track-day car that won’t break the bank, the Mazda MX5 should definitely be on your radar.

Cons: The Mazda MX5 is one of the most popular sports cars on the market for good reason. It’s nimble, fun to drive, and relatively affordable. However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider before making your purchase. First, the MX5 is not the best choice for track days or other high-performance driving activities. While it’s sure to put a smile on your face, you’ll likely be outperformed by more powerful cars. Second, the MX5 can be a bit noisy on the highway. If you’re looking for a cruising companion, you might want to look elsewhere. Finally, the MX5 can be challenging to drive in bad weather conditions. If you live in an area with lots of snow and ice, you’ll need to be extra careful behind the wheel. Despite its drawbacks, the Mazda MX5 is still a great choice for anyone looking for an enjoyable and stylish sports car.

3. Porsche Boxster 986 S

Pros: The 986 Porsche Boxster S is an incredible track day car. It’s maneuverable and predictable, with plenty of power to boot. The handling is superb, making it easy to keep the car on track even at high speeds. With a little practice, you’ll be able to take full advantage of the Boxster S’s capabilities on the track. And when you’re done with your track day, you can enjoy the drive home in a comfortable and stylish car. Whether you’re an experienced racer or just looking for a fun track day car, the Porsche Boxster S is a great option.

Cons: firstly, it’s not particularly practical, with only two seats and a small boot. Most importantly, if you are looking at buying a Porsche from 1997 – 2008 (especially pre-2016) do your homework on the car’s service history. If IMS Bearing part fails, at the very least, you’re looking at having the engine removed, disassembled, and put back together. More likely, you are looking at a complete rebuild or replacement.

4. MINI Cooper S R53

Pros: with its four-cylinder supercharged engine, the Cooper S has plenty of power on tap for a fun day of driving. And thanks to its compact size and nimble handling, it’s easy to zip around the track and put your driving skills to the test. Best of all, the Cooper S is just as comfortable on the street as it is on the track, so you can enjoy its performance any time, anywhere. Whether you’re looking for a track-day car or a daily driver, the MINI Cooper S is sure to put a smile on your face.

Cons: One downside is the MINI Cooper S is not particularly well-suited for long-distance driving. The small size and lack of space can make it uncomfortable for passengers, and the firm suspension can make for a jarring ride on rough roads to the track. Nevertheless, the MINI Cooper S remains a popular choice among driving enthusiasts who are looking for a track-day performer.

5. Renault Megane R26

Pros: The Renault Megane R26 is a track day car that was developed and produced by the French automotive company Renault. It is based on the third generation of the Renault Megane, and was first unveiled at the 2006 Paris Motor Show. The R26 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine, which produces 226hp and 370Nm of torque. It has a six-speed manual gearbox, and can accelerate from 0-60mph in 5.8 seconds. The R26 also features a number of track-focused modifications, including a limited-slip differential, larger brakes, and a revised suspension setup. These modifications make the R26 an excellent choice for track days and high-performance driving.

Cons: there are a few things to keep in mind before taking this track-ready machine out for a spin. First, the R26 is not cheap. It’s one of the more expensive track cars on this list, so be prepared to shell out some serious cash. Second, it’s not exactly easy on the eyes. The R26 is purpose-built for performance, so its aggressive styling may not be to everyone’s taste. But if you’re looking for a track car that can go toe-to-toe with the best of them, the Renault Megane R26 is definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to open your wallet…and turn a few heads.

And finally

The top 5 best track day cars for under $5.000 are:

1. Honda Civic Type-R
2. Mazda MX-5
3. Porsche Boxster 986 S
4. MINI Cooper S R53
5. Renault Megane R26

Prices of second hand cars vary in different countries, so click here to check this post about top 5 cars for under $10.000.

All of the cars on our list are great choices for track days, but each one has its own unique set of pros and cons. So before you make your purchase, be sure to consider what’s important to you. If you’re looking for a track-day car that’s fast and maneuverable, the Porsche Boxster S is a great option. However, if you’re looking for something more affordable, the Mazda MX5 is definitely worth considering. No matter which car you choose, we guarantee that you’ll have a blast at your next track day event.