Affordable Manual Showdown: 8 Manual Performance Cars For Less Than $35,000

The Miata, now more than ever, is a unicorn that deserves to be appreciated. Its existence as a relatively cheap, small, rear-wheel drive manual convertible has been at odds with the automotive industry for years, and we couldn’t be more thankful for it. They say “Miata Is Always The Answer” for a reason, and even in 2024 that answer hasn’t changed, even though the ND is getting a bit old.

No, this car isn’t fast, with a mere 181 hp on tap, but you can toss the vehicle around corners at slower speeds, and it’s guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. The six-speed manual is the one you want, with short throws that make the experience much more enjoyable.

There’s much to like with this roadster, and with meaningful updates, the company has given it longevity that continues to impress.