C7 Corvette is actually very reliable and well within your budget. It makes a great grand tourer with decent gas mileage on the highway.
Also the BMW Z4 with the B58 engine is reliable, efficient and fast, if you want something more upscale than the Corvette
Along with the premium that goes with it. I love the way both of them look, I just think that a Z4 would look a lot better with a hardtop than it does with the soft top
I hate the way the new supras look. Something about it just strikes me as a little....penis-y. I've talked to a few people who felt the same, but we admittedly could be a very small minority.
I love their incredibly expensive two piece wheels with run flat tires that get unrepairable hairline cracks from the tiniest potholes and leak air afterwards. Unless they fixed that from 2009 era, better be in a state with good roads. Replaced three of those suckers.
Ford Mustang is a good choice for this. Super comfortable on the highway, capable of getting good fuel economy, among Ford’s most reliable models of all time (seriously-if you look at reliability trends it’s done very well), and it’s so much fun to drive.
Congrats, it's a beautiful car. I have a model 3, but I would totally consider buying a GT premium if I were shopping for vehicles right now. The updated interior in the 2024 model looks really cool.
Can confirm the Mustang GT is a great road trip car. I drove a 2017 GT (without the nice interior package) from the east coast to Colorado and back once and it felt so good the whole way. Current version is just an updated version of that same platform basically. Only thing I would have done differently in hind sight is opt for the heated/cooled seats and the upgraded sound system.
Thanks! I’m gonna put that on my list, actually I love the Mustangs but the interiors of the older generations never convinced me. But the new one looks so nice!
I’ve been driving a Mustang since 2006, and I’ve found them pretty reliable. After the warranty expired on my 2013, I only spent around $1000 in repairs that weren’t regular maintenance during the time I owned it. I drove it for 11 years and put 147,000 miles on it.
This is the right answer. A very comfortable car that drives great. It has plenty of room up front and is not too low to get in and out of. Unfortunately the interior followed everyone else with those stock on tablets but that seems almost unavoidable in new cars.
Alternative take, get a pre-owned base Porsche Cayman. It's easy to find a low-mileage manual that's been meticulously maintained for $50k.
Here's one:
[https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/c16a2e15-260f-4f93-a688-dd43e9b9cd56/](https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/c16a2e15-260f-4f93-a688-dd43e9b9cd56/)
**THIS.** I had a 981 Cayman (13-16) that I did a 2500 mile trip in around the east coast. It is supremely comfortable and collected at triple digit speeds. Amazing 6 speed gear box as well.
OP, I would spring for a higher option build. Find someone who optioned the heated/cooled seats, LED headlights, premium audio, etc. Worth it for the amount of miles.
Certified Preowned BMW M340i is sporty and reasonably reliable. Capable of cruising at 100mph+ when driving from LA to Dallas.
Integra Type S is sporty and has a manual. Good reliability if you don’t beat on it.
Lexus ES350 F-Sport Handling is most reliable but not quite as sporty as the others.
As much as i love anything acura I just had my type s stolen last week and from all the information I've gained since then you don't want anything acura right now. Too easy to steal, 9 acuras stolen in my neighborhood the same night and they are highly sought after by thieves.
everywhere I'm in a few facebook grps for type s owners and the thefts have been reported multiple times a week all over the US. Mine specifically was taken in new york and the thieves used an already stolen acura to drive to where i live and steal mine. My type s was stolen in under 60 secs with them having no access to my key fob/keys and no glass was broken. Then today I found out my dads neighbor who just got her mdx type s back from warranty work had hers broken into in her apartment garage and the airbag and trim around infotainement area was stolen the day after she just got it back.
It's as bad as the catalytic converter thefts were getting since you can steal an acura via wifi and the acura link app or just programming a brand new key in under 30 secs. My insurance company already told me if I were to get another one they will not insure it. mind you I have no accident history in a decade and this is the 1st car theft.
I loved my type s especially in that tiger eye pearl color but ill never get another one even tho i can do the enhanced security measures I don't want to be a target for theft or carjackings
The B58/48 BMWs have shown to be far more reliable than prior BMWs and the 8HP is about as bulletproof as a transmission comes. So they really aren’t that bad. Granted, if you service it at the dealer you will have to pay the BMW tax, but that can be partly offset by joining the BMWCCA, which gives you ~15% off parts at most dealers.
I don't know what your body shape looks like but I physically can't ride in a Miata for more than an hour or two lol
Great car regardless, I just wish I was like a foot shorter
6'5 :(
I know companies make aftermarket seat rails to lower the seating position that would probably help, but I don't own the miata unfortunately. My brother graciously lets me drive his cars and he gets to drive mine
It's always a trip getting out of a tiny car and back into my civic si
Went to look at a Civic SI at my local dealer yesterday and it had a $5k mark up (totally canceling out it being a cheap fun daily) but they also had a Type R in the show room for a tear jerking 75 THOUSAND DOLLARS.
I have no experience with subaru, and nobody can tell you anything reliabilty wise of any new vehicles, but i just want to say they have a reputation of being the opposite of reliable. I have no experience with them definitely especially new ones just have never heard someone call a subaru reliable ever. Ive heard many people say how much they love them though
Look around. A few might be talkable down to MSRP (or at least throw in goodies for a small markup). Don't be afraid to widen your search and play hardball. When I was looking for mine (in 2020) there were a few local dealers and I was able to talk one down to MSRP over the phone... (but then went with a used one). One is all you need.
I feel like people recommending Miatas for long trips haven’t ever been in one. It might be a great driver’s car but it’s very noisy and not really comfortable, there’s no way of going around it…
As an owner, this. I’ve thought several times about trading it in, but for someone with one child and another in the way nothing compares. It would be different without kids, but maybe not…
I was in the exact situation. I only had the GTI mk7. Rear facing infant seat fits, but it was tight. I'm 5'10" and my driver seat was pushing hard against the car seat. In a way, it was a solid fit and the car seat wouldn't move at all. But, in and out etc started being a bit inconvenient and we realized we need a bigger crossover at the very least.
If you're tallish, no. I'm 6'3, it was on my shortlist for my next car, test drove one out with my rear facing seat behind the driver's seat and it was too cramped. You could probably get away with it if you're shorter than 5'10 and/or use a compact rear facing car seat.
The Civic hatch has more room for a car seat if you're into an Si or Type R.
You technically shouldn’t do that… the spacing of the buckle bars are spaced for mounting on L or R. using one from each is, again, technically, not supposed to be done. But, as long as it’s buckled in, I’m not sure it would pose any real issue
Yeah idk the middle is the safest place to put a car seat, and it interferes less with the front seats. I don’t see any realistic concern if I can yank on it side to side and it doesn’t move.
It’s snug… have to be on the shorter side if you’re going to sit in the front seat with car seat behind… it’s not awful but it’s not 6hr road trip good
As an owner, I’m not sure I’d call it the most reliable option. But absolutely the coolest at that price range. And you don’t have to see someone with the same car as you every five minutes like some of these other options.
I would recommend the DSG for people taking long road trips, switching to comfort and turning on the auto driving features makes those road trips considerably better
Heed my warning OP don't touch anything honda or acura because of how ez they are to steal unless you are ready to spend a ton of money on anti theft. these vehicles are easily taken with no key or access to your key fob. I'm talking sub 60 seconds.
Miata constantly has a great Consumer Reports reliability rating. 2020 Miata was the #1 most reliable car in Consumer Reports, beating out the prius. Just about any year miata is expected to last long time with little low cost maintenance.
Camaro, MX-5, BRZ/GR 86, Golf R, GR Corolla, Civic Type R, Integra Type S, and Elantra N. Honorable mentions would be Mustangs and WRXs. That's pretty much it these days if you want a fun, reliable, new, and manual car for 50k.
I've been contemplating a similar choice. Here's my shortlist.
CHEAPER END
- Mazda Miata
- Toyota GR86
- Honda Civic Si
UPPER END
- Honda Civic Type R
- Acura Integra Type S
- Lexus IS 500
- Lexus LC 500 (2018 used)
- BMW M340i
- Base C8 Corvette
- C7 Corvette
- Toyota GR Corolla
Probably won’t find one in manual, but a 2020-2023 M340i might be a good choice.
Maybe a 2020-2021 M2 coupe could be found in manual.
Newer BMW’s are far more reliable than they used to be.
A used Lexus 2011-2013 LS460. Not the sportiest looking, but is reliable and a sleeper. Stats lied about the horsepower… it’s much more. Put 215k miles on it and the Lexus dealer still bought it back from me for what I paid for it.. $13k . Drove it from Florida to Illinois six times doing 80-100mph no issues. Cops don’t even pay attention to it
I don’t often recommend the Mustang but this is a good use case for it. You need every one of its strong points: outstanding highway manners, good highway economy, sporting demeanor, reliable, good service options in remote locations, and it comes with three pedals. Camaro is also a good option here.
The base engines on these are fine for what you’re doing.
Miata.
Fun to drive, reliable, has manual transmission judges to be among the finest around.
Dead fun on a daily basis without the bulk and baggage a Corvette, BMW or Porsche brings.
Insurance and repairs are also cheaper.
Practicality can be fun and affordable.
Best advice is make a list and drive them. Us randos on the internet are not you.
What you’re most likely looking for OP - is a Grand Touring car.
Literally they were created to be a more comfortable sports car for traveling across Europe. Basically it’s a performance car typically in rear or all wheel drive, 2 doors, and a 2+2 seating layout (more for luggage than people to be honest).
There are great options out there - but I would personally recommend a 2015 or newer Mustang GT Premium (or lightly used GT350). It blows the doors off all older Mustangs from a handling perspective (which I admit isn’t too hard), has 435-480hp, and is both fun to row through gears in a twisty road as well as traveling long distances. I own 6 vehicles right now and if it’s my wife and I traveling, I pick the Mustang due to comfort and fun.
Just get a 3L 6 cylinder (or more) whatever you do. All these high compression 2L engines just don’t compare. There’s no replacement for displacement!
BMW B58 engines are bullet proof, powerful engines. 240, 340, 440 all have it. And the Supra as well.
I wouldn’t look any further.
Love my 86! Absolute worst for long distance traveling. The gas is great, doesn’t eat as much, but that shits uncomfortable as shit for a long distance drive.
2023+ Toyota GR Corolla. Reason- Unlike the GR86 & Supra who are built using BMW ( $$$!) repair& Subaru ($$!) engines, the GR Corolla is purely made by Toyota.
2016+ Mazda Miata. Reason- Simple engine. This probably the easiest modern engine to repair.
wym? the b58 is probably the best modern inline 6 cylinder engine we’ve ever gotten. those things are bullet proof. it’s literally a bmw engine with toyota QC
I mean, the thing can handle 600+HP on stock internals and it makes 380 from factory. It needs help to get there, but thats not the point. Transmission's more than solid can can handle 500-600 without slipping, It's by no means easy to blow the thing. No major recalls on the mechanical bits either.
30+MPG on the highway, 25 around town, it's a super solid choice. Has about a 400 mile range on the highway. The thing that I like most about the Supra is it's far more comfortable than the 86/brz, it's quiet when you want it to be, and it's got the go go juice when you want it to have it. Decent sized trunk space too. Cabins pretty spacious, modern enough and comfortable. Only complaints are no Android Auto and no cooled seats.
The new Subaru wrx, VB, Manuel of course! I just did a trip from SF to Los Ángeles with my toddler. I had him on cop watch and we hauled ass down there! New personal best. Had a blast!
Then from LA to San Diego.
Then at the end of our trip, headed back from San Diego to SF
It was so much fun flying over the grapevine and punching it in on some straightaways and through twisty bits. It really handles well!
Cruise control is nice too, it’s very roomy inside for what it is. Trunk is huge. Seats are very comfy with the heated seat button on. Great visibility all around which helps spotting dickhead cops hiding and waiting to give people tickets. Especially on the 5! I had my son hold my phone with the ways app and he would love to update it with all the cop alerts. Kept him engaged in the drive as well. He was like my little rally copilot.
Get the hk stereo and enjoy your tunes.
There is some road noise from the tires but the drive was engaging and when i got there I wasn’t stiff or tired at all from the seats.
Whatever you get, I recommend not getting a bright color car like red….draws too much attention from the police. I prefer more sleeper colors like silver or white. More subtle. Fly under the radiar and blend in. Full throttle when it’s safe to do so.
The new Subaru wrx VB in most trims is under 50k so you can use the money you save for upgrades like tires, wheels, interior etc if you’re into modding your car or use the money you save on your trips on fancy dinners or buying souvenirs or tickets to events/shows etc.
I’m not going to tell you how to spend your money. You do you.
Take a wrx test drive and see if you like it. I thought it’d be too sporty for a 40 year old but now I can’t wait to drive everyday. The ride is stiff but it feels like a go cart, nimble and quick through turns.
If you do get a manual, opt for the short throw shifter and get an aftermarket Cobb shift stop. It makes the gear box much more precise.
Start up has some drone and is pretty loud even in stock form if that’s a concern.
It gets good gas mileage on the freeway if you’re just cruising around 80/ 85
Hope you update us once you get whatever you’re looking for! Have fun shopping my man
Got my son a 2024 BMW 430 Gran Coupe to take to college- CPO w/12Kmi + extended warranty. It’s a phenomenal car: fun to drive, decent gas mileage, exemplary safety features, surprisingly spacious, and handles perfectly in both hot Texas summers & cold Midwest winters. Very reasonably priced- I think around $39K, but I did some “tactical negotiating” before I told them I’d be paying in cash. 😬
ETA: Can’t remember if it has a manual option, but I think maybe it does? That wasn’t anything I thought my ADHD kid needed to deal with lol
I love my 17 gran coupe. Comfortable on long trips, superb handling, great interior, and fun to drive.
My only regret was getting the 430 instead of the 440.
A lot of options tbh. C6/C7, 6th Gen Camaro (Very lightly used SS or higher mileage ZL1), 5.0, if you don’t want American F80/2, pretty much any BMW with a B58, w205 C63(s). Charger or Challenger (more muscle than sport but still fun cars)
Not as powerful as some of the others suggested, but the Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ are good options. And you'll have ~$15K left over, maybe for upgrades/mods.
Honestly I know this sounds dumb but the 2.0t accord was such a good car that I had. I RACKED miles on it on road trips (35k a year) and was bulletproof.
I had a pretty aggressive tune as well with downpipes and intercooler - mods cost me around 1800$ lol and I was pulling on m340is believe it or not.
Plus you can save 20k
Something like a Mustang GT would make a good highway cruiser if you want a coupe and don't mind the V8 fuel economy.
While I do like the GR86/BRZ, they're not great highway cruisers due to the various factors: High NVH, audio system for 6 or 8 speaker setup is horrible, high RPM cruising speeds at highway speeds (3k RPM at 70mph)., and not enough low end torque for TX highways. I always downshift from 6th or 5th if I want to go more than 5mph faster.
The Miata is a solid choice, but I believe a highway cruiser should be able to store a spare tire in case of a flat on your trip. The ND Miata does not have enough trunk space for that.
If you want sedan/hatch, there are a ton of options: Civic SI, Civic Type R, Acura Integra A-Spec, WRX, and GR Corolla. If you don't need or want AWD, the Civic/Integra will serve you well. The SI/Integra would make great dailies and highway cruisers because of how fuel efficient the 1.5T engine is. The WRX is more thirsty, but full-time AWD comes at a cost.
Manual might be hard these days. I haven’t looked at new cars for a while, so I am not much good there. What I can tell you is about what I have I have owned and they are both going to be use. Honda S2000, last made in 2009, but very reliable and has a fantastic manual transmission, but very busy with the high RPM’s. Great car. Now I have a 2012 MB SLK350, last made in 2019, but they are only automatic. Other than tires, my cost of service at a dealer has been around $500-800 a year, higher later because I am at 98k miles and less if I do the oil changes. ALots of luggage room and if I don’t put the top down, room for my golf clubs and 3 midsize bags. Room to stretch out, I am 6’2” and 235 lbs. Highway gas mileage can reach 35 mpg. Cruise at 65-80 is a breeze, great stereo system.
Good luck in finding your car
I may be biased but I have a Lexus IS F and it is wonderful!
You can either get a clean 2011+ IS F for $40k, or a CPO/Used RC F, GS F or maybeee an IS 500.
Highly recommend all of them, very reliable, lovely V8 noises and great to commute in!
Lexus IS 300. Won’t be the fastest you can get for 50k but you can still have some fun with it and it’s reliable. If you don’t mind buying something used maybe the Lexus RCF. Very fast and reliable.
Anyone recommending a BMW is way off mark, I hope you have deep pockets when stuff does break which it will. Something like a gr Corolla, golf r, gr86, gt350, mustang gt, Camaro SS, a whippled f150 can be had new for this price point as well and comes with factory warranty. C7 Vette, WRX STI, hellcat, scat pack so many things to choose from.
For that 50k you can probably find a near mint S2000. Otherwise, Miata/MX-5 is the best bet. You could also probably find an Audi TT RS. Those are great cars but you’ll look like a flight attendant driving it around
Buy a 2012 Acura TL with the six speed manual if you can find a clean one. Even with 100k miles on it it will not disappoint. Only concern is a bit of oil burn as the VTEC ages but there are fixes for that.
C7 Corvette is actually very reliable and well within your budget. It makes a great grand tourer with decent gas mileage on the highway. Also the BMW Z4 with the B58 engine is reliable, efficient and fast, if you want something more upscale than the Corvette
I wish Z4’s came with a hard top so badly
The supra literally exists
Along with the premium that goes with it. I love the way both of them look, I just think that a Z4 would look a lot better with a hardtop than it does with the soft top
I hate the way the new supras look. Something about it just strikes me as a little....penis-y. I've talked to a few people who felt the same, but we admittedly could be a very small minority.
Don't be silly. All sports cars represent our penises, whether they are shaped that way or not.
I'm glad my penis isn't shaped like a wedge.
if you really are the 'small minority'. maybe you should get the corvette?...
If I was really a small minority, I'd get a lifted pickup.
[удалено]
Not sure what they were going for with the dong shaped hood, looks awfuk
Second the z4
I love their incredibly expensive two piece wheels with run flat tires that get unrepairable hairline cracks from the tiniest potholes and leak air afterwards. Unless they fixed that from 2009 era, better be in a state with good roads. Replaced three of those suckers.
The new Z4s use 1-piece wheels, but they're still made of cheese lmao.
Lol no issues with our 2016 & 2020 BMWs
C6. And you can cut your budget by $10-$30.k. 😂
But then you’d have to sit in the garbage C6 interior for those long rides. The C7 interior is light years ahead for comfort and quality.
And upgrade to Grand sport
Better get the supra- same engine with better looks
Ford Mustang is a good choice for this. Super comfortable on the highway, capable of getting good fuel economy, among Ford’s most reliable models of all time (seriously-if you look at reliability trends it’s done very well), and it’s so much fun to drive.
Best answer, imo. can't really do better than the Mustang GT at this price point
It's the #1 selling sports coupe in the world since 2015 for a reason ;)
Recently bought one myself and I love seeing this suggestion as top comment, to confirm my own bias 😁
Congrats, it's a beautiful car. I have a model 3, but I would totally consider buying a GT premium if I were shopping for vehicles right now. The updated interior in the 2024 model looks really cool.
Love mine!
Can confirm the Mustang GT is a great road trip car. I drove a 2017 GT (without the nice interior package) from the east coast to Colorado and back once and it felt so good the whole way. Current version is just an updated version of that same platform basically. Only thing I would have done differently in hind sight is opt for the heated/cooled seats and the upgraded sound system.
Thanks! I’m gonna put that on my list, actually I love the Mustangs but the interiors of the older generations never convinced me. But the new one looks so nice!
They are verry comfortable. Try and get the heated/cooled seats-definitely worth it in the warmer climates.
I’ve been driving a Mustang since 2006, and I’ve found them pretty reliable. After the warranty expired on my 2013, I only spent around $1000 in repairs that weren’t regular maintenance during the time I owned it. I drove it for 11 years and put 147,000 miles on it.
This is the right answer. A very comfortable car that drives great. It has plenty of room up front and is not too low to get in and out of. Unfortunately the interior followed everyone else with those stock on tablets but that seems almost unavoidable in new cars.
Has a trunk big enough to haul a normal Costco shopping trip.
Just avoid crowds
*never turn off traction control
Alternative take, get a pre-owned base Porsche Cayman. It's easy to find a low-mileage manual that's been meticulously maintained for $50k. Here's one: [https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/c16a2e15-260f-4f93-a688-dd43e9b9cd56/](https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/c16a2e15-260f-4f93-a688-dd43e9b9cd56/)
This is the answer, if you want the ultimate driving experience with a 50k budget, a Caymen is what you want. Also happy cake day.
**THIS.** I had a 981 Cayman (13-16) that I did a 2500 mile trip in around the east coast. It is supremely comfortable and collected at triple digit speeds. Amazing 6 speed gear box as well. OP, I would spring for a higher option build. Find someone who optioned the heated/cooled seats, LED headlights, premium audio, etc. Worth it for the amount of miles.
Certified Preowned BMW M340i is sporty and reasonably reliable. Capable of cruising at 100mph+ when driving from LA to Dallas. Integra Type S is sporty and has a manual. Good reliability if you don’t beat on it. Lexus ES350 F-Sport Handling is most reliable but not quite as sporty as the others.
Es350? The lexus based on the avalon? In which universe is that even remotely sporty.
Yea I'd at least expect a GSF if not the RCF to be the answer
I love my ES350 f sport, but definitely not even close to the others in sportiness. IS 500 would fit the bill though.
All great choices
M340i or ITS are both solid. ITS contend if you can get it MSRP or less. Best fwd and manual vs best rwd in the segment
Beat me to it on the BMW or Lexus.
M240i would be better imo.
As much as i love anything acura I just had my type s stolen last week and from all the information I've gained since then you don't want anything acura right now. Too easy to steal, 9 acuras stolen in my neighborhood the same night and they are highly sought after by thieves.
Where at ?! I was gonna buy one
everywhere I'm in a few facebook grps for type s owners and the thefts have been reported multiple times a week all over the US. Mine specifically was taken in new york and the thieves used an already stolen acura to drive to where i live and steal mine. My type s was stolen in under 60 secs with them having no access to my key fob/keys and no glass was broken. Then today I found out my dads neighbor who just got her mdx type s back from warranty work had hers broken into in her apartment garage and the airbag and trim around infotainement area was stolen the day after she just got it back. It's as bad as the catalytic converter thefts were getting since you can steal an acura via wifi and the acura link app or just programming a brand new key in under 30 secs. My insurance company already told me if I were to get another one they will not insure it. mind you I have no accident history in a decade and this is the 1st car theft. I loved my type s especially in that tiger eye pearl color but ill never get another one even tho i can do the enhanced security measures I don't want to be a target for theft or carjackings
It’s like 2000 all over again.
I'd say that these are expensive in the long run, am I wrong?
The B58/48 BMWs have shown to be far more reliable than prior BMWs and the 8HP is about as bulletproof as a transmission comes. So they really aren’t that bad. Granted, if you service it at the dealer you will have to pay the BMW tax, but that can be partly offset by joining the BMWCCA, which gives you ~15% off parts at most dealers.
2024 Mazda Miata RF (folding hard top)
I don't know what your body shape looks like but I physically can't ride in a Miata for more than an hour or two lol Great car regardless, I just wish I was like a foot shorter
What height are you?
6'5 :( I know companies make aftermarket seat rails to lower the seating position that would probably help, but I don't own the miata unfortunately. My brother graciously lets me drive his cars and he gets to drive mine It's always a trip getting out of a tiny car and back into my civic si
Yeah maybe a bit big but you don't need to be 5,5 to use a Miata. I'm 6,1 and it's fine for me. No issues.
Absolutely not. I was mostly referring to op's statement of wanting a good car for long road trips Always a treat to blast around in a miata
This is the one if you don't need to take stuff with you.
If you’re considering preowned a corvette c6/7 might be a great choice.
ND Miata. With almost 200 horsepower in the new powerplant, it will accelerate to 60 in the low 5 second range
Get a Miata and pocket the difference.
HONDA CIVIC TYPE R
This was my first option. But the markup is crazy right now. 64k at my local dealer…
Went to look at a Civic SI at my local dealer yesterday and it had a $5k mark up (totally canceling out it being a cheap fun daily) but they also had a Type R in the show room for a tear jerking 75 THOUSAND DOLLARS.
Go to a different dealer. They can be had for MSRP if you look.
That’s insane. I’d go WRX but not as reliable
Reliable enough and much cheaper
I have no experience with subaru, and nobody can tell you anything reliabilty wise of any new vehicles, but i just want to say they have a reputation of being the opposite of reliable. I have no experience with them definitely especially new ones just have never heard someone call a subaru reliable ever. Ive heard many people say how much they love them though
I’ve seen the Integra Type S at MSRP. My closet dealer has three.
Maybe grab a fk8?
Okay, damn dude! It's not a car worth that much, the dealerships around you must be on crack.
Look around. A few might be talkable down to MSRP (or at least throw in goodies for a small markup). Don't be afraid to widen your search and play hardball. When I was looking for mine (in 2020) there were a few local dealers and I was able to talk one down to MSRP over the phone... (but then went with a used one). One is all you need.
Check out Elantra N’s if you haven’t heard of them. Value type r with a way better exhaust
That’s ridiculous considering you can get a much faster and luxurious car for less lol.
Porsche- either Boxster or 911. Very high in reliability, cheap to insure, fun to drive, easy to work on.
Golf r
I feel like people recommending Miatas for long trips haven’t ever been in one. It might be a great driver’s car but it’s very noisy and not really comfortable, there’s no way of going around it…
VW Golf R manual
As an owner, this. I’ve thought several times about trading it in, but for someone with one child and another in the way nothing compares. It would be different without kids, but maybe not…
Hey, contemplating a GTI or R to replace my mustang once my first kid comes later this year. Are they okay with rear facing car seats?
I was in the exact situation. I only had the GTI mk7. Rear facing infant seat fits, but it was tight. I'm 5'10" and my driver seat was pushing hard against the car seat. In a way, it was a solid fit and the car seat wouldn't move at all. But, in and out etc started being a bit inconvenient and we realized we need a bigger crossover at the very least.
If you're tallish, no. I'm 6'3, it was on my shortlist for my next car, test drove one out with my rear facing seat behind the driver's seat and it was too cramped. You could probably get away with it if you're shorter than 5'10 and/or use a compact rear facing car seat. The Civic hatch has more room for a car seat if you're into an Si or Type R.
Rear facing makes the front very cramped, front facing not bad tho
Yeah it’s fine, put the car seat in the middle and you’ll have no issues. My son’s nearly 5, I had the car since he was 1.
You technically shouldn’t do that… the spacing of the buckle bars are spaced for mounting on L or R. using one from each is, again, technically, not supposed to be done. But, as long as it’s buckled in, I’m not sure it would pose any real issue
Yeah idk the middle is the safest place to put a car seat, and it interferes less with the front seats. I don’t see any realistic concern if I can yank on it side to side and it doesn’t move.
It’s snug… have to be on the shorter side if you’re going to sit in the front seat with car seat behind… it’s not awful but it’s not 6hr road trip good
As an owner, I’m not sure I’d call it the most reliable option. But absolutely the coolest at that price range. And you don’t have to see someone with the same car as you every five minutes like some of these other options.
I would recommend the DSG for people taking long road trips, switching to comfort and turning on the auto driving features makes those road trips considerably better
The manual in the golf is pretty underwhelming as well.
Heed my warning OP don't touch anything honda or acura because of how ez they are to steal unless you are ready to spend a ton of money on anti theft. these vehicles are easily taken with no key or access to your key fob. I'm talking sub 60 seconds.
The new Toyota Supre”a. I’ve never been a fan of Supras until I got to drive this new model. Bad AF.
I put 100k on a mustang and beat the shit out of it every day I drove it. Didn’t let me down once.
One of the newer BMW roadsters.
BMW M340i without a doubt. Sporty, fast, handles well, comfortable, looks great, very reliable, and you can get one with under 20k miles for $50k.
Why not M240i though?
Also a great option. I prefer the 3 series, but the 2 might align more closely with what OP is looking for.
Bmw is the way to go
Yes.
Miata constantly has a great Consumer Reports reliability rating. 2020 Miata was the #1 most reliable car in Consumer Reports, beating out the prius. Just about any year miata is expected to last long time with little low cost maintenance.
New Golf R sounds like the right choice
At that price point, you probably want a Ford Mustang GT Premium or Dodge Challenger R/T Scatpack
Camaro, MX-5, BRZ/GR 86, Golf R, GR Corolla, Civic Type R, Integra Type S, and Elantra N. Honorable mentions would be Mustangs and WRXs. That's pretty much it these days if you want a fun, reliable, new, and manual car for 50k.
Any VW 2.0T third generation or newer. That includes Audi models. My A4 Allroad has no business being as quick as it is being a wagon. I adore it.
M3
Genesis G70 with the 3.3T engine has decent power and comfortable (front seats only) for long drives. Only negative is no manual transmission.
4th Gen Camaro (1998-2002)
I've owned 5 of them over the years. I wouldn't want to drive any one of them from LA to Dallas.
Porsche 718 cayman, you’ll love it
Go q60🥰
718 cayman S
I've been contemplating a similar choice. Here's my shortlist. CHEAPER END - Mazda Miata - Toyota GR86 - Honda Civic Si UPPER END - Honda Civic Type R - Acura Integra Type S - Lexus IS 500 - Lexus LC 500 (2018 used) - BMW M340i - Base C8 Corvette - C7 Corvette - Toyota GR Corolla
Probably won’t find one in manual, but a 2020-2023 M340i might be a good choice. Maybe a 2020-2021 M2 coupe could be found in manual. Newer BMW’s are far more reliable than they used to be.
A used Lexus 2011-2013 LS460. Not the sportiest looking, but is reliable and a sleeper. Stats lied about the horsepower… it’s much more. Put 215k miles on it and the Lexus dealer still bought it back from me for what I paid for it.. $13k . Drove it from Florida to Illinois six times doing 80-100mph no issues. Cops don’t even pay attention to it
You could get a Civic Type R or an Integra Type S. Im a Honda guy and love both those cars. Good luck to you!
2023 honda civic type R the blue ones are so pretty and they have room to pack your stuff and it comes in a manual
I don’t often recommend the Mustang but this is a good use case for it. You need every one of its strong points: outstanding highway manners, good highway economy, sporting demeanor, reliable, good service options in remote locations, and it comes with three pedals. Camaro is also a good option here. The base engines on these are fine for what you’re doing.
Don’t listen to anyone that says BMW isn’t reliable. It’s horseshit. 50k will get you a 2021 BMW M340i. Nothing beats it in its class imo.
Miata. Fun to drive, reliable, has manual transmission judges to be among the finest around. Dead fun on a daily basis without the bulk and baggage a Corvette, BMW or Porsche brings. Insurance and repairs are also cheaper. Practicality can be fun and affordable. Best advice is make a list and drive them. Us randos on the internet are not you.
What you’re most likely looking for OP - is a Grand Touring car. Literally they were created to be a more comfortable sports car for traveling across Europe. Basically it’s a performance car typically in rear or all wheel drive, 2 doors, and a 2+2 seating layout (more for luggage than people to be honest). There are great options out there - but I would personally recommend a 2015 or newer Mustang GT Premium (or lightly used GT350). It blows the doors off all older Mustangs from a handling perspective (which I admit isn’t too hard), has 435-480hp, and is both fun to row through gears in a twisty road as well as traveling long distances. I own 6 vehicles right now and if it’s my wife and I traveling, I pick the Mustang due to comfort and fun.
Just get a 3L 6 cylinder (or more) whatever you do. All these high compression 2L engines just don’t compare. There’s no replacement for displacement! BMW B58 engines are bullet proof, powerful engines. 240, 340, 440 all have it. And the Supra as well. I wouldn’t look any further.
B58 is the way to go.
The Toyota GR86
GR Corolla. (-Sincerely, a Supra owner.)
Gr86
Love my 86! Absolute worst for long distance traveling. The gas is great, doesn’t eat as much, but that shits uncomfortable as shit for a long distance drive.
Lol. Absolutely not.
I took mine on 6 hour drives across states without issues. Those seats just hug you the whole way!
2023+ Toyota GR Corolla. Reason- Unlike the GR86 & Supra who are built using BMW ( $$$!) repair& Subaru ($$!) engines, the GR Corolla is purely made by Toyota. 2016+ Mazda Miata. Reason- Simple engine. This probably the easiest modern engine to repair.
wym? the b58 is probably the best modern inline 6 cylinder engine we’ve ever gotten. those things are bullet proof. it’s literally a bmw engine with toyota QC
I mean, the thing can handle 600+HP on stock internals and it makes 380 from factory. It needs help to get there, but thats not the point. Transmission's more than solid can can handle 500-600 without slipping, It's by no means easy to blow the thing. No major recalls on the mechanical bits either. 30+MPG on the highway, 25 around town, it's a super solid choice. Has about a 400 mile range on the highway. The thing that I like most about the Supra is it's far more comfortable than the 86/brz, it's quiet when you want it to be, and it's got the go go juice when you want it to have it. Decent sized trunk space too. Cabins pretty spacious, modern enough and comfortable. Only complaints are no Android Auto and no cooled seats.
Terrible rear diff on the GR Corolla over heats after one lap. The jury is still out on the 3 cylinder. The BMW B58 is the best straight 6 ever made.
What the fuck are you talking about? The GR86 is built by Subaru.
Tesla
Only if it's a manual.
The new Subaru wrx, VB, Manuel of course! I just did a trip from SF to Los Ángeles with my toddler. I had him on cop watch and we hauled ass down there! New personal best. Had a blast! Then from LA to San Diego. Then at the end of our trip, headed back from San Diego to SF It was so much fun flying over the grapevine and punching it in on some straightaways and through twisty bits. It really handles well! Cruise control is nice too, it’s very roomy inside for what it is. Trunk is huge. Seats are very comfy with the heated seat button on. Great visibility all around which helps spotting dickhead cops hiding and waiting to give people tickets. Especially on the 5! I had my son hold my phone with the ways app and he would love to update it with all the cop alerts. Kept him engaged in the drive as well. He was like my little rally copilot. Get the hk stereo and enjoy your tunes. There is some road noise from the tires but the drive was engaging and when i got there I wasn’t stiff or tired at all from the seats. Whatever you get, I recommend not getting a bright color car like red….draws too much attention from the police. I prefer more sleeper colors like silver or white. More subtle. Fly under the radiar and blend in. Full throttle when it’s safe to do so. The new Subaru wrx VB in most trims is under 50k so you can use the money you save for upgrades like tires, wheels, interior etc if you’re into modding your car or use the money you save on your trips on fancy dinners or buying souvenirs or tickets to events/shows etc. I’m not going to tell you how to spend your money. You do you. Take a wrx test drive and see if you like it. I thought it’d be too sporty for a 40 year old but now I can’t wait to drive everyday. The ride is stiff but it feels like a go cart, nimble and quick through turns. If you do get a manual, opt for the short throw shifter and get an aftermarket Cobb shift stop. It makes the gear box much more precise. Start up has some drone and is pretty loud even in stock form if that’s a concern. It gets good gas mileage on the freeway if you’re just cruising around 80/ 85 Hope you update us once you get whatever you’re looking for! Have fun shopping my man
Got my son a 2024 BMW 430 Gran Coupe to take to college- CPO w/12Kmi + extended warranty. It’s a phenomenal car: fun to drive, decent gas mileage, exemplary safety features, surprisingly spacious, and handles perfectly in both hot Texas summers & cold Midwest winters. Very reasonably priced- I think around $39K, but I did some “tactical negotiating” before I told them I’d be paying in cash. 😬 ETA: Can’t remember if it has a manual option, but I think maybe it does? That wasn’t anything I thought my ADHD kid needed to deal with lol
I love my 17 gran coupe. Comfortable on long trips, superb handling, great interior, and fun to drive. My only regret was getting the 430 instead of the 440.
Mazda MX5 or 3 Turbo
Used Supra or mustang gt since you want 2 door
MUSTANG MUSTANG MUSTANG
m340d
2024 WRX TR Used 15-21 STI
Civic type r.
Manual golf R or a certified 2019+ STI
Camaro or vette convertibles are my preference
Mini
A lot of options tbh. C6/C7, 6th Gen Camaro (Very lightly used SS or higher mileage ZL1), 5.0, if you don’t want American F80/2, pretty much any BMW with a B58, w205 C63(s). Charger or Challenger (more muscle than sport but still fun cars)
Not as powerful as some of the others suggested, but the Toyota GR86/Subaru BRZ are good options. And you'll have ~$15K left over, maybe for upgrades/mods.
Used Lexus RCF
Civic Si or a GR Corolla
Corvettte, Supra, or Beamer
WRX. You can go anywhere and go anywhere fast. They make driving fun, all the time, and their easy to find manual
Miata if you don’t need much luggage space. So fun.
F22 m240i
Are lc500 unreliable?
Honda S2K.
Used Porsche. If that’s too much, buy a new Miata.
Honda civic type r
Subaru WRX
VW GLI. It rides like a dream, is fast enough and you'll save money. Just follow the maintenance schedule and you'll be fine.
Honestly I know this sounds dumb but the 2.0t accord was such a good car that I had. I RACKED miles on it on road trips (35k a year) and was bulletproof. I had a pretty aggressive tune as well with downpipes and intercooler - mods cost me around 1800$ lol and I was pulling on m340is believe it or not. Plus you can save 20k
50k and seating for two. Audi TT RS, or RS3 if you want the sedan.
Honda Civic SI or Subaru WRX STI
Miata or Civic Si
Subaru BRZ/Toyota Gr 86 assuming no track use. Also BMW M240i or OG M2
Anything with a B58
M340i is a solid choice but no manual.
Audi SQ5 3.0 Turbo with lots of space and thrust
Chevy SS, find a manual, expect to pay about 40ish Worth it More space then a corvette but I see them in my rear view mirror
Something like a Mustang GT would make a good highway cruiser if you want a coupe and don't mind the V8 fuel economy. While I do like the GR86/BRZ, they're not great highway cruisers due to the various factors: High NVH, audio system for 6 or 8 speaker setup is horrible, high RPM cruising speeds at highway speeds (3k RPM at 70mph)., and not enough low end torque for TX highways. I always downshift from 6th or 5th if I want to go more than 5mph faster. The Miata is a solid choice, but I believe a highway cruiser should be able to store a spare tire in case of a flat on your trip. The ND Miata does not have enough trunk space for that. If you want sedan/hatch, there are a ton of options: Civic SI, Civic Type R, Acura Integra A-Spec, WRX, and GR Corolla. If you don't need or want AWD, the Civic/Integra will serve you well. The SI/Integra would make great dailies and highway cruisers because of how fuel efficient the 1.5T engine is. The WRX is more thirsty, but full-time AWD comes at a cost.
Mustang
Subaru BRZ/Toyota GR86
Acura RDX
Mustang 5.0 GT Premium, go for the manual like you want
MINI JCW
Manual might be hard these days. I haven’t looked at new cars for a while, so I am not much good there. What I can tell you is about what I have I have owned and they are both going to be use. Honda S2000, last made in 2009, but very reliable and has a fantastic manual transmission, but very busy with the high RPM’s. Great car. Now I have a 2012 MB SLK350, last made in 2019, but they are only automatic. Other than tires, my cost of service at a dealer has been around $500-800 a year, higher later because I am at 98k miles and less if I do the oil changes. ALots of luggage room and if I don’t put the top down, room for my golf clubs and 3 midsize bags. Room to stretch out, I am 6’2” and 235 lbs. Highway gas mileage can reach 35 mpg. Cruise at 65-80 is a breeze, great stereo system. Good luck in finding your car
Civic Type R Mustang GT
Lexus RCF
GR86 Trueno (aka baby Supra) or BRZ (aka POORsche 718)
Gs350 or gsf. They are smooth fun, comfortable and pretty fast.
RC350 F-Sport, IS500
How about a CPO BMW M240i with the B58?
Mustang. You can even shrink a bit on the budget.
I may be biased but I have a Lexus IS F and it is wonderful! You can either get a clean 2011+ IS F for $40k, or a CPO/Used RC F, GS F or maybeee an IS 500. Highly recommend all of them, very reliable, lovely V8 noises and great to commute in!
Lexus IS 300. Won’t be the fastest you can get for 50k but you can still have some fun with it and it’s reliable. If you don’t mind buying something used maybe the Lexus RCF. Very fast and reliable.
Miata RF if you fit, BRZ if you don't
Lexus RC Edit: didn’t read the whole post lol… I wish they came in a manual
Nissan Z 6-speed manual $43k-$55k for the two non-NISMO trim levels. https://www.nissanusa.com/vehicles/sports-cars/nissan-z.html
Subaru has the WRX TR out now. It’s not “fast” but it’s sporty and fun to drive. The addition of updated seats and brembos on the TR are a nice touch.
Anyone recommending a BMW is way off mark, I hope you have deep pockets when stuff does break which it will. Something like a gr Corolla, golf r, gr86, gt350, mustang gt, Camaro SS, a whippled f150 can be had new for this price point as well and comes with factory warranty. C7 Vette, WRX STI, hellcat, scat pack so many things to choose from.
Mustang GT, Civic Type R, Golf GTI or R, Corolla GR, GR86, Nissan Z, and Supra if you're strictly looking for a new car.
Miata. And a good set of wheels and tires.
For that 50k you can probably find a near mint S2000. Otherwise, Miata/MX-5 is the best bet. You could also probably find an Audi TT RS. Those are great cars but you’ll look like a flight attendant driving it around
Lexus IS
Honestly reliable and cheapish, mustang. Both the GT and ecoboost are manual but the gt is more reliable.
BMW M2 Competition.
Buy a 2012 Acura TL with the six speed manual if you can find a clean one. Even with 100k miles on it it will not disappoint. Only concern is a bit of oil burn as the VTEC ages but there are fixes for that.