Unfortunately, the fastest, sleekest sports cars usually come with plenty of zeros attached to the price tag, putting them well beyond the reach of most ordinary people. Luckily, though, car enthusiasts don’t always have to sacrifice performance for economy, as auto manufacturers develop faster models at more affordable prices each year.
Below are some the top performing cars available for under $50,000, based on their acceleration from 0-100km/h. If you’re an auto mechanic student with a love of fast cars, you’ll find plenty to get excited about here, with models that combine powerful engines and reliable mechanics with reasonable prices.
Whether you’ve recently started your auto mechanic courses, or you’re thinking of enrolling, you’ll definitely want to learn more about some of the fastest cars on today’s market that are under $50,000!
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR: Perhaps the Last of a Great Auto Line
The Mitsubishi Lancer packs a punch you don’t get with most four-door sedans, at a price of $46,392. Those looking to combine power with convenience will find a lot to like in this model, which also boasts all-wheel drive as standard.
However, it’s the Lancer’s engine that will most impress students enrolled in mechanic courses—a four-cylinder turbocharged monster that boasts 291 hp and 300 lb-ft torque, for an acceleration of 0-100 in 4.9 seconds. Unfortunately, Lancer fans may have to look to the used car market in future, as Mitsubishi is phasing out production after 2015, to focus on more fuel efficient models.
Subaru Impreza WRX & WRX STI: Fuel for Debate on Mechanic Courses
Both the WRX and the WRX STI rank high in performance lists for mid-priced cars. However, speed tests for both have inspired debate among car-lovers, with some showing that the original WRX—priced at $35,217—is actually faster than the more expensive STI, which costs an average of $45,730.
The numbers should put the STI ahead, with a 305hp and 290lb-ft torque engine, far superior to the 265hp, 244 lb-ft standard model. However, the SRX is a much lighter car, and without all the extras of the STI weighing it down, has beaten it in some acceleration tests, managing 0-100kph in around 4.7 seconds. Nonetheless, the STI still outperforms the standard model in most other areas.
Chevy Camaro SS: An Old Favourite of Auto Technician Training Students
Graduates of auto repair courses recognize that Chevrolet’s signature muscle car has long combined an affordable price with plenty of power, and the 2015 edition is no exception. A 6.2 liter V8 engine allows for a maximum horsepower of 436, with 420 lb-ft of torque, and has been recorded doing 0-100 in as little as 4.3 seconds, all for an average price of just $44,218.
Ford Mustang GT: The Legendary Auto that Shows No Signs of Slowing Down
The Mustang and the Camaro have battled for the affection of auto-lovers since the late 1960s, and even in 2015, there’s little separating the two. This year’s Mustang matches the Camaro’s 4.3 second acceleration time, but wins the race for value, with an average price of just $41,375. The Mustang’s 5.0 liter V8 offers 435 hp and 400lb-ft torque, which is slightly less powerful than its rival, but the difference is marginal. For loyal enthusiasts of both brands, the debate rages on.
Would you like to learn more about the auto mechanics of cars like these?
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