Tuning a car allows enthusiasts to personalize their vehicles and push performance boundaries. While some high-end cars are popular for modifications, many budget-friendly options offer excellent potential for tuning. This article explores ten Good And Cheap Cars For Tuning, spanning various models and styles, perfect for transforming into unique, personalized rides. We’ll cover estimated used prices and engine specs to help you find the ideal foundation for your next project.
Top 10 Affordable Cars Perfect for Tuning
From Japanese sports cars to American muscle, the tuning world offers a diverse range of affordable options. Let’s dive into ten good and cheap cars ripe for modification:
1. Lexus IS300: A Sleeper with Tuning Potential
Estimated Used Price: $5,000
The Lexus IS300, particularly the early 2000s models, is a popular choice among tuners. Its legendary 2JZ three-liter straight-six engine is renowned for its modification potential.
Lexus IS300 Engine Specs:
| Engine | 3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve straight-six |
|---|---|
| Power | 215-220 hp |
| Torque | 218-220 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 7.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | RWD |
| Transmission | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
2. Subaru BRZ/Toyota GT86: Lightweight and Agile Tuner Cars
Estimated Used Price: $13,500
The Subaru BRZ and its twin, the Toyota GT86, are modern sports car bargains perfect for tuning. Their lightweight design and rear-wheel-drive layout make them ideal for drifting and handling upgrades. The 2.0-liter flat-four engine, while not powerful in stock form, responds well to modifications.
Subaru BRZ Engine Specs:
| Engine | 2.0-liter flat-four |
|---|---|
| Power | 200 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft |
| Drive Type | RWD |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
3. Mazda RX-7 (FC): Rotary Power Ready for Customization
Estimated Used Price: $9,500
The second-generation Mazda RX-7 (FC) offers unique tuning possibilities with its 1.3-liter rotary engine. These affordable sports cars are an excellent entry point into the world of JDM tuning.
Mazda RX-7 Engine Specs:
| Engine | 1.3-liter rotary engine |
|---|---|
| Power | 160 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft |
| Drive Type | RWD |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic |
4. Volkswagen Golf GTI: A Hot Hatch Icon for Tuning Enthusiasts
Estimated Used Price: $14,000
The Volkswagen Golf GTI, especially the MK7 generation, is a tuner favorite. Its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine readily accepts modifications, making it easy to achieve significant power gains.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Engine Specs:
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Power | 210 hp (220 hp with performance pack) |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| Drive Type | FWD |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
5. Subaru WRX: Rally-Inspired Performance with Tuning Potential
Estimated Used Price: $12,000
The Subaru WRX, known for its rally heritage, offers a potent platform for tuning. Models from the ’90s and 2000s, like the 2003 Impreza WRX, provide excellent bang for your buck. Their turbocharged engines and all-wheel-drive systems can be tuned for impressive performance.
Subaru WRX Engine Specs:
| Engine | Turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four |
|---|---|
| Power | 227 hp |
| Torque | 217 lb-ft |
| Drive Type | AWD |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual; 4-speed automatic |
6. Pontiac Fiero GT: A Unique Sports Car Ripe for Modification
Estimated Used Price: $9,000
The Pontiac Fiero GT, with its distinctive styling and mid-engine layout, offers a unique base for tuning projects. Its 2.8-liter V6 engine and lightweight design can be transformed into a nimble and powerful sports car.
Pontiac Fiero GT Engine Specs:
| Engine | 2.8-liter V6 |
|---|---|
| Power | 135-140 hp |
| Torque | 165-170 lb-ft |
| Drive Type | RWD |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual; 4-speed manual |
7. Mazda RX-8: Rotary Engine Excitement for Tuning Enthusiasts
Estimated Used Price: $9,000
The Mazda RX-8, featuring a unique Renesis rotary engine, provides a thrilling driving experience that can be further enhanced with tuning. Its high-revving nature and rear-wheel-drive layout make it a compelling choice for enthusiasts.
Mazda RX-8 Engine Specs:
| Engine | 1.3-liter rotary engine |
|---|---|
| Power | 197-238 hp |
| Torque | 159-164 lb-ft |
| Drive Type | RWD |
| Transmission | 6-speed paddle-shift auto; 6-speed manual; 4-speed auto |
8. Mercury Marauder: A Sleeper Sedan with V8 Power
Estimated Used Price: $9,000
The Mercury Marauder, a full-size sedan based on the Ford Crown Victoria, packs a powerful 4.6-liter V8 engine that responds well to modifications. Its unassuming appearance makes it a perfect sleeper candidate for surprising performance.
Mercury Marauder Engine Specs:
| Engine | 4.6-liter all-aluminum DOHC V8 |
|---|---|
| Power | 302 hp |
| Torque | 318 lb-ft |
| Drive Type | RWD |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
9. Infiniti G35: A Luxurious Coupe with Tuning Potential
Estimated Used Price: $13,500
The Infiniti G35 offers a blend of luxury and performance, making it an attractive option for tuning. Its VQ35 V6 engine, shared with the Nissan 350Z, delivers strong performance and can be further enhanced with modifications.
Infiniti G35 Specs:
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 |
|---|---|
| Power | 280-298 hp |
