Top Ten Unconventional Vehicles Ideal for Driving, Now Available for Purchase
In the world of automobiles, there's a growing trend towards affordable performance cars that offer a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank. Here's a comparison of some of the most notable models currently available in the market.
Subcompact Hatchbacks
The Kia Picanto S, priced at just $15,190, is a go-kart compared to the size of modern traffic. With a power-to-weight ratio of 62.5kW/tonne, it may be underpowered, but that's exactly the appeal. The light and positive five-speed gearbox is more satisfying when you're not fast enough to attract the local constabulary. The Picanto S offers an appealing weight distribution and is expertly suited to life as an inner-city urban dweller.
Another contender in this category is the Hyundai i30 N-Line, priced at $29,420. It boasts a power-to-weight ratio of 114kW/tonne and comes with standard equipment including Michelin Pilot Sport 4s and 305mm front brakes. The i30 N-Line provides excellent body control, tenacious front-end grip, and precise, direct steering.
Compact Hatchbacks
The Toyota Corolla Ascent Sport, priced at $23,895, is a worthy competitor in this segment. It delivers a power-to-weight ratio of 94kW/tonne and offers an option for a manual transmission. The Ascent Sport provides great chassis balance and direct, linear steering, requiring careful balance of braking, gearing, steering, and tyre grip to maximize momentum through corners.
Sedans
The Peugeot 508, priced at $57,490, is a sedans that offers a power-to-weight ratio of 115kW/tonne. Manufactured in Germany by the PSA Group (now Stellantis) at the Peugeot plant in RΓΌsselsheim am Main, the 508 delivers a comfortable ride and a balanced driving experience.
The Lexus IS350, priced at $75,000, is a deftly engineered sedan that won't flatter your talents in the way others might. It has a power-to-weight ratio of 138kW/tonne and coalesces as a surprisingly rewarding road car to drive fast. However, the Lexus IS350's engine tech, gearbox logic, and some other elements date the Lexus in the face of younger C-Class and 3 Series rivals.
Sports Cars
The Audi TTS, priced at $101,200, delivers an experience far greater than often given credit for. With a power-to-weight ratio of 165.5kW/tonne, the TTS corners flat and hard, feels urgent to reach apex on turn-in, and has a light, direct, and effective steering. The Audi TT is almost $20k cheaper β yet faster β than a Porsche 718 Cayman.
The Jaguar i-Pace, priced at $137,848, is a high-performance electric SUV equipped with twin synchronous permanent magnet electric motors. With a power-to-weight ratio of 143kW/tonne, the i-Pace is a serious traction monster from a dig or on the move.
Muscle Cars
The Ford Mustang 2.3, priced at $54,690, is the cheapest manual turbocharged coupe you can still buy. Its power delivery is punchy with around 90 per cent of useable torque accessible between 2500 and 5300rpm. The Mustang 2.3's pedals aren't perfectly heel-toe compatible, but it features a very effective auto-blip feature and a burly shift action.
Each of these vehicles offers a unique blend of performance, comfort, and affordability, making them compelling choices for those seeking a thrilling driving experience without the luxury price tag. Whether you're a city dweller or a speed enthusiast, there's a car here to suit your needs.
