I’m a Retired Race Car Driver: These Are the 5 Best Cars for Your Money for Speed

2024 Mazda3

If you’re a car enthusiast who loves driving fast, finding the perfect balance between speed and value can be a daunting task. But the quest for speed doesn’t mean you have to own an unattainable hyper-car. You can find cars that are affordable and still give you the driving experience that you love.

We spoke with Brian Sims, author and former race car driver, whose memoir “You Don’t Have to Be a Champion… to Be a Winner!” tells the story of his career in F1 racing, both on and off the track. Sims shared a few of his favorite fast cars that are still a great value.

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MINI Hardtop 4-Door Cooper S

• MSRP: $31,900
• Top speed: 142 mph
• 0 to 60: 6.6 seconds

The MINI hardtop four-door Cooper S is a stylish and practical small car with a powerful engine that makes driving exciting — even for a former race car driver! Bonus points for its four doors, which means there’s  plenty of space for passengers.

Sims was a big fan of the MINI Cooper with a 2.0-liter diesel engine, which was last available in the U.S. for the 2019 model year.

“So quick but so practical and economical,” said Sims. “The longest I have kept a car!”

This car is great for city driving and weekend trips. Inside, it feels comfortable and high-quality. If you’re a budget-conscious enthusiast who still wants to drive fast and have fun, the MINI Cooper S is a great pick.

See More: 10 Affordable Compact Cars That Will Last 300,000 Miles

Mazda 3

• MSRP: $24,170 to $36,650
• Top speed: 134 mph
• 0 to 60: 5.6 seconds

Sims also recommended the Mazda 626, a midsize sedan that was known for its reliability and comfortable ride with a nice balance of practicality and sportiness. The 626 was discontinued after 2002, and if you can find one used for a great price, you should definitely grab it.

But if you can’t, or if you want a more modern vehicle, check out the Mazda 3. Similar to the 626, it gives you great performance in a stylish package. You can choose between a regular engine that’s quite lively, or a turbocharged one that gives the car some serious zip. Either way, the Mazda 3 feels great to drive — it’s responsive and nimble, making even a trip to the grocery store more enjoyable.

Honda Civic Si

• MSRP: $30,195
• Top speed: 137 mph
• 0 to 60: 6.8 seconds

The Honda Prelude was a sporty two-door car that made driving fun without costing a fortune. The Prelude was the kind of car that made you look forward to driving, whether you were cruising down the highway or taking the long way home on a winding road. Honda stopped making it after 2001, but a lot of people still have a soft spot for the Prelude because it showed that an affordable car could still be tons of fun.

Sims called it “​​stylish and spacious.”

For a similar modern experience, try the Honda Civic Si, which makes driving feel more like a fun activity than a chore. The Civic Si also gets good gas mileage, has room for friends or family and comes with safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.

Ford Mustang

• MSRP: $30,920 to $58,185
• Top speed: 155 mph
• 0 to 60: 4.3 seconds

No discussion of affordable speed would be complete without mentioning the iconic Ford Mustang, a classic American sports car. You can choose from different models, but even the less-expensive ones pack a punch. No matter which Mustang you pick, you’re getting a car that’s fun to drive, sounds amazing and turns heads wherever you go.

“Turn the M1 Motorway into Route 66,” said Sims.

If you’re looking to save even more money, there’s a version of the Mustang with a smaller, turbocharged engine that still delivers exciting acceleration and gets better gas mileage. You’ll also enjoy reasonable maintenance costs and insurance rates, making the Mustang even more affordable.

Porsche 911 Targa

• MSRP: $130,650
• Top speed: 180 mph
• 0 to 60: 4.0 seconds

The 911 Targa is definitely a luxury purchase, which might seem at odds with a value-focused list. But remember that “best for your money” can also mean investing in a car that offers an unbeatable driving experience as well as fantastic resale value.

If you’re the right buyer, the Porsche 911 Targa will reward you with an experience like no other. It’s the kind of car that makes every drive feel special.

“Reminds me that I should never have sold mine,” said Sims. “Worth a fortune today in perfect nick.”

Porsches, especially 911s, tend to hold their value really well. So while it’s a big investment upfront, you’re less likely to take a huge hit if you decide to sell it down the road.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I’m a Retired Race Car Driver: These Are the 5 Best Cars for Your Money for Speed