In the wonderful world of automotive engineering, a mid-engine layout refers to cars where the engine is mounted in front of the rear-wheel axles but behind the front axle. Placing the engine towards the middle of the car benefits weight distribution, which in turn improves handling.
Some cars, like the Miata, have the engine in front of the driver but behind the front axle, so they are, technically, mid-engined. However, most people use the term “mid-engined” when talking about cars where the engine is behind the driver, so those are the ones we’ll focus on in this article.
When someone mentions mid-engined cars, most people think of exotics, like Ferraris and Lambos. However, there are some great-handling mid-ship cars out there that regular people can afford to buy.
Alfa Romeo 4C
If you want a practical sports car, you should steer clear of the Alfa Romeo 4C. However, if you’re an Italophile but can’t afford a Ferrari or Lambo, the Alfa Romeo 4C is most likely your best bet when it comes to owning a mid-engined Italian car.
While it’s far cheaper than an actual supercar, the 4C is still among the most expensive on this list, as KBB states that prices start just under $40,000, but it does have a carbon monocoque, which is huge at the price point. It’s certainly not the most reliable car here either, but thanks to its low weight and 240-horsepower 1.8-liter turbo engine, it’s still a fun option to consider.
Lotus Elise
Prices for the Lotus Elise always seem to hover around the $30,000+ mark, so if you decide to buy one, chances are it won’t lose much, if any, value by the time you sell it.
Lotus has used Toyota engines in the Elise since the Series 2 cars from 2001, so reliability-wise, it’s one of the most solid choices here. The Elise is a no frills British sports car, meaning it’s not for those who want to show off—it’s a proper driver’s car that offers excellent handling.
Audi R8
If the Lotus Elise is a bit too basic, and you want something that’s more user-friendly and flashy, check out an early V8-powered Audi R8. This is a proper supercar, even if it doesn’t have the screaming V10 engine.
These days, you can pick up a high-mileage R8 for the same price as a new hot hatch, and there’s no doubt the Audi will turn more heads. Seeing as Audi is now moving towards a fully electric future, we think the R8 will soon see its prices increase, as collectors will want a piece of automotive history. Be warned that maintenance costs can be expensive, though.
Porsche Cayman
It’s possible to get your hands on a first-generation Porsche Cayman for under $20,000 right now, making it a real German sports car bargain. Porsche is always ranked among the best when it comes to build quality, and they also know a thing or two about making fun cars.
The first-gen Porsche Cayman had two engine options, both of which were flat-six units. The base model had a 2.7-liter with 245 horsepower, and the S trim got a 3.4-liter engine with 295 horses. Thanks to its mid-engine layout, the Cayman will even out-handle its more famous 911 sibling.
2nd Gen Toyota MR2
The second-generation Toyota MR2 is the best-looking one. In fact, it’s one of the best-looking Japanese sports cars ever made. Performance-wise, it also packs a very decent punch, especially if you get the Turbo model.
Unfortunately, the MR2 Turbo is getting expensive these days, but if you have around $10,000-15,000 you can get your hands on a solid naturally aspirated model with the 160-horsepower 2.0-liter engine. The MR2 also enjoys a solid selection of aftermarket parts, so it’s relatively easy to make it even better.
Toyota MR2 Spyder
Right now, the Toyota MR2 Spyder is probably the biggest bargain on the mid-engined sports car market. Granted, it’s the least practical of the three MR2 generations, but it’s also the cheapest.
If you really want a Lotus Elise, but struggle to justify the price, the MR2 offers the same 140-horsepower 1.8-liter 1ZZ engine, and even the cargo space is similar, but for a quarter of the price of a Lotus. There are also lots of aftermarket parts available, so the MR2 Spyder is an underappreciated Japanese sports car perfect for modifications.
Lotus Esprit
Late-model Lotus Esprits were a bit dated compared to most of the competition. That was ok, though, as this iconic British sports car cost much less than Italian exotica while offering similar performance.
The 2.0-liter and 2.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder versions are the most affordable, but if you have deeper pockets and want maximum performance, there’s a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V8 available. With 350 horsepower, it could sprint to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds and marched on to a top speed of 175 mph.
Lotus Europa S / SE
In the mid-2000s, Lotus decided they had to offer a more comfortable car than the uncompromising Elise and Exige, which resulted in the slightly more luxurious Europa.
The Lotus Europa S and SE were based on the Elise platform, but had more soundproofing, a more spacious trunk, and easier access to the cabin. However, since it wasn’t as performance-oriented as other Lotus models, neither automotive journalists nor Lotus enthusiasts liked it very much. That’s actually good news, as they’re bargains on the used market nowadays.
Porsche 986 Boxster
The Porsche Boxster is one of the models that saved the German carmaker back in the late 90s, yet haters still don’t like it just because it’s not a 911. Because of that, Boxster prices remain relatively low compared to other Porsches.
There’s a lot to like about the first-gen Boxster, as this open-top sports car offers excellent driving dynamics, near-perfect weight distribution, and decent power. Make sure you get it checked by a Porsche specialist before buying, so you won’t be slapped by any expensive repair bills.
Porsche 914
Long before the 986 Boxster came into existence, Porsche purists aimed their hatred towards the 914. Not long ago, practically nobody wanted the 914, and you could buy one for whatever change you found behind the sofa. These days, prices have skyrocketed, but it’s still possible to pick up an affordable Porsche 914 if you’re willing to spend some time searching.
This little targa-top sports car was built in collaboration with Volkswagen, and while it’s not particularly fast in a straight line, it’s plenty of fun on a twisty road.
Pontiac Fiero
The Pontiac Fiero is another mid-engined sports car people loved to hate. However, it’s actually seen a surge in popularity in recent years, so prices have increased substantially.
While it’s getting hard to find a bargain-basement Fiero these days, it may still be worth buying one. Early models were underpowered and plagued by reliability issues, but most of those were ironed out towards the end. The humble Fiero even has decent performance if you get one with the 2.8-liter V6 engine.
Honda Beat
If you’re into JDM machines, the tiny Honda Beat is an excellent mid-engined option. Produced from 1991 to 1996, even the latest models of this little kei car are now eligible for US import.
It may only have a 656cc three-cylinder engine that produces 65 horsepower, but seeing as it only weighs 1,680lbs, it’s an extremely fun sports car for the city.
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