Owning a high-performance vehicle is the ultimate dream for many, but let’s be realistic: cheap sports cars are a relative concept. In a world of multi-crore supercars, affordable speedsters simply mean these machines offer a gateway to adrenaline-pumping performance without the top-tier price tag.
While you might trade rear-seat legroom for a lower centre of gravity, India’s market now features several affordable sports cars that outperform standard sedans and SUVs. From nimble, track-ready hatchbacks to precision-engineered German speedsters, these models prove that the thrill of the open road is becoming more accessible. If you're looking for the pure joy of motoring, there are several compelling options priced significantly lower than typical high-end speedsters, allowing you to experience world-class driving dynamics, without emptying your bank account.
| Make & Model | Engine | Power/Torque | 0-100 kmph | Top Speed | Ex-showroom Price |
| BMW Z4 M40i Roadster | 3.0-litre, inline 6-cyl, twin-turbo | 335.3 bhp/502 Nm | 4.5 seconds | 250 kmph | ₹87.90 lakh |
| BMW M2 Coupé | 3.0-litre, inline 6-cyl, twin-turbo | 453.7 bhp/550 Nm | 4.1 seconds | 250 kmph | ₹1.02 crore |
| Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Cabriolet | 3.0-litre, inline 6-cyl, turbo, mild-hybrid | 429 bhp/520 Nm | 4.5 seconds | 250 kmph | ₹1.23 crore |
| BMW M4 Competition | 3.0-litre, inline 6-cyl, twin-turbo | 522.7 bhp/650 Nm | 3.5 seconds | 250 kmph | ₹1.52 crore |
| Porsche 911 Carrera | 3.0-litre, flat 6-cyl, naturally aspirated | 380 bhp/450 Nm | 4.2 seconds | 293 kmph | ₹1.99 crore |
| Mercedes-AMG SL 55 4MATIC+ Roadster | 4.0-litre, V8, twin-turbo | 469.4 bhp/700 Nm | 3.9 seconds | 295 kmph | ₹2.69 crore |
1. BMW Z4 M40i Roadster | ₹87.90 Lakh
0-100 kmph – 4.5 seconds
The BMW Z4 M40i is a premier luxury roadster that perfectly balances aggressive performance with open-top elegance. As a top contender among affordable sports cars in the premium segment, it features a sleek, low-slung body, a signature long bonnet, and a retractable soft-top that deploys in just 10 seconds.
Performance & Handling
- Engine: 3.0-litre, inline-six twin-turbo petrol.
- Power: 335.3 bhp and 502 Nm of torque.
- Acceleration: Sprints from 0 to 100 kmph in a staggering 4.5 seconds.
- Precision Driving: Standard Adaptive M Suspension and variable sport steering ensure sharp, responsive handling.
Inside, the tech-focused cabin boasts a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon system. For enthusiasts seeking cheap sports cars that deliver a true high-performance experience without the multi-crore supercar price tag, the Z4 M40i remains an unbeatable choice for pure motoring joy.
2. BMW M2 Coupé | ₹1.02 Crores
0-100 kmph – 4.1 seconds
The BMW M2 Coupé is a powerhouse in the compact performance segment, designed for purists who demand track-ready dynamics in a versatile package. Unlike most cheap sports cars, the M2 offers a surprisingly practical four-passenger seating layout and a 390-litre boot, making it a unique daily-driver option.
Performance & Precision Handling
- Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six delivering 453.7 bhp and 550 Nm.
- Speed: Sprints from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.1 seconds (Automatic) or 4.3 seconds (Manual).
- Driving Dynamics: Features a classic rear-wheel-drive setup with Adaptive M Suspension and an Active M Differential.
- Tech-Rich Cabin: Equipped with a 14.9-inch curved display and BMW’s latest OS 8.5.
With its aggressive wide-track stance, flared arches, and optional 6-speed manual transmission, the M2 remains a top choice for those seeking affordable sports cars with authentic racing DNA.
3. Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Cabriolet | ₹1.23 crore
0-100 kmph – 4.5 seconds
The Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Cabriolet is a masterpiece of open-top performance, blending high-tech mild-hybrid efficiency with classic AMG aggression. As a standout in the luxury segment of affordable sports cars, it features a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine enhanced by an electric EQ Boost system for instantaneous response.
Performance & Key Highlights
- Power Output: Delivers 429 bhp and 520 Nm, with EQ Boost adding an extra 21.7 bhp and 250 Nm.
- Speed: Sprints from 0–100 kmph in just 4.5 seconds via a 9-speed automatic transmission.
- Roof Tech: The retractable soft-top operates in under 20 seconds at speeds up to 50 kmph.
- Driving Dynamics: Features AMG Ride Control+ adaptive suspension and 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive for superior grip.
The cabin is a sanctuary of tech, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays and MBUX integration. For enthusiasts exploring the premium end of cheap sports cars, the E 53 Cabriolet offers an unmatched balance of luxury and drop-top thrills.
4. BMW M4 Competition | ₹1.52 crore
0-100 kmph – 3.5 seconds
The BMW M4 Competition is the definitive high-performance coupé, offering supercar-rivalling power in a precision-engineered package. As one of the most capable affordable sports cars in its class, it bridges the gap between luxury and raw track performance, making it the ultimate expression of modern driving dynamics.
Performance & Handling
- Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six delivering 522.7 bhp and 650 Nm.
- Acceleration: Sprints from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.5 seconds.
- Drivetrain: Features the advanced M xDrive AWD system for superior traction.
- Precision Tech: Standard Adaptive M Suspension and Active M Differential ensure razor-sharp handling on any road.
The cockpit is a tech masterpiece with a 14.9-inch curved display (OS 8.5) and driver-focused ergonomics. For enthusiasts seeking cheap sports cars that dominate the racetrack without sacrificing daily practicality, the M4 Competition remains a world-class benchmark.
5. Porsche 911 Carrera | ₹1.99 crore
0-100 kmph – 4.2 seconds
The Porsche 911 Carrera remains the ultimate benchmark for performance and daily usability, anchoring the iconic 911 legacy in a modern, tech-rich package. As a standout entry in the segment of affordable sports cars, it features the classic 992-generation silhouette, enhanced by Matrix LED headlights and a signature rear light bar.
Performance & Handling
- Engine: 3.0-litre twin-turbo flat-six delivering 388.6 bhp and 450 Nm.
- Acceleration: Sprints from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.2 seconds (4.0s with Sport Chrono).
- Transmission: 8-speed PDK dual-clutch, widely considered the industry standard.
- Agility: Features Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and an active rear spoiler for high-speed stability.
The driver-centric cabin boasts a 12.65-inch digital cluster and a 10.9-inch PCM touchscreen. For those seeking the gold standard of cheap sports cars, the 911 Carrera offers an unmatched blend of luxury, precision engineering, and status.
6. Mercedes-AMG SL 55 4MATIC+ Roadster | ₹2.44 crore
0-100 kmph – 3.9 seconds
The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 4MATIC+ Roadster is a high-performance muscle car in a refined convertible format, delivering a visceral driving experience. As the most aggressive open-top model on our list, it features a handcrafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that outputs 469.4 bhp and a massive 700 Nm of torque.
Performance & Tech Highlights
- Speed: Blasts from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.9 seconds.
- Drivetrain: Features 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive and rear-axle steering for exceptional agility.
- Roof System: The fabric soft-top opens in 15 seconds at speeds up to 60 kmph.
- Cockpit: A driver-focused interior with an 11.9-inch tilt-adjustable touchscreen to combat sun glare.
With active aerodynamics and 21-inch alloy wheels, the SL 55 is a purposeful speedster designed for pure pleasure. While technically among the affordable sports cars compared to multi-crore exotics, its V8 muscle ensures it stands out as a serious performance machine on Indian roads.
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