You don’t need six figures to have fun behind the wheel. If you’re a true enthusiast, the appeal of a manual transmission is unmatched — more control, more engagement, and more connection with the car. Luckily, there are still some sports cars out there with three pedals and a price tag under $20K.
Here are 10 manual sports cars from iconic brands like BMW, Audi, Mercedes, Lexus, Porsche, Ford, Chevy, and Nissan that still thrill — without draining your wallet.
Porsche Boxster (1997–2004, 986 Gen)
Price Range: $10,000–$19,500
Mid-engine balance, flat-six soundtrack, and Porsche handling — the 986 Boxster delivers serious sports car credentials for the money. A well-maintained manual example is pure driving joy, especially with the top down on a twisty road.
Chevrolet Corvette C5 (1997–2004)
Price Range: $13,000–$20,000
The C5 Corvette is one of the best performance bargains on the market. 350+ horsepower, a 6-speed Tremec manual, and a lightweight chassis make this ‘Vette a highway missile and corner carver all in one.
Audi TT Quattro (2008–2012)
Price Range: $10,000–$17,000
All-wheel drive, a turbocharged engine, and a 6-speed manual — the TT offers sleek coupe looks with real driving fun. The second-gen TT is quick, composed, and still stands out in a parking lot full of crossovers.
Mercedes-Benz SLK 350 (2005–2008)
Price Range: $9,000–$15,000
A Mercedes with a manual? Yep. The SLK 350 came with a 6-speed option and a punchy V6. With its retractable hardtop and compact roadster proportions, it’s a rare combo of luxury and engagement at a bargain price.
BMW 128i Coupe (2008–2013)
Price Range: $10,000–$18,000
A throwback to BMW’s golden era, the 128i features a naturally aspirated inline-6, rear-wheel drive, and a slick 6-speed manual. It’s simple, balanced, and surprisingly quick — a driver’s car that hasn’t forgotten the basics.
Ford Mustang GT (2005–2010 S197)
Price Range: $9,000–$19,000
Muscle car fans, this one’s for you. The S197 Mustang GT packs a 4.6L V8 and a proper 5-speed manual. It’s raw, loud, and full of torque — exactly what a manual pony car should be.
Lexus IS 250 Manual (2006–2013)
Price Range: $8,000–$14,000
The IS 250 manual is a hidden gem — reliable, rear-wheel drive, and surprisingly refined. While it’s not a rocket ship, it offers a luxury badge with a satisfying manual transmission and just enough power to enjoy the back roads.
Audi S4 (B6/B7, 2004–2008)
Price Range: $9,000–$18,000
With a 6-speed manual, Quattro all-wheel drive, and either a high-revving 4.2L V8 (B6/B7) or a supercharged V6 (B8, slightly above $20K), the S4 is a performance sedan that hides serious speed under a clean-cut suit. The manual versions are getting harder to find, so now’s the time to grab one while they’re still affordable.
Chevrolet Camaro SS (2010–2013)
Price Range: $12,000–$19,500
With retro styling, a 6.2L V8, and a 6-speed manual, the fifth-gen Camaro SS is an absolute blast. It’s got presence, grunt, and enough tech to make it livable without dulling the experience.
BMW 330i ZHP (2003–2006)
Price Range: $8,000–$16,000
The ZHP is more than just a trim — it’s the enthusiast’s 3-Series. With upgraded suspension, a bump in horsepower, and tighter steering, it’s the perfect mix of daily comfort and spirited weekend driving. Add a 6-speed manual, and it’s a proper budget sports sedan.
Manual sports cars under $20K are becoming rare, but they’re far from gone. Whether you lean European, American, or Japanese, there are still great options that deliver the old-school driving experience — one gear at a time.
Ready to find yours? Browse listings now on Exotic Car List and shift into something exciting.
