Best Manual Transmission Cars Under 10k

1. Honda Civic Si (2006-2011)

The Honda Civic Si is a legendary sports compact that offers a thrilling driving experience. Its 2.0-liter VTEC engine produces 197 horsepower and 139 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission. The Si also features a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a limited-slip differential, making it a blast to drive on winding roads.

2. Mazda MX-5 Miata (1990-2005)

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is an iconic roadster that’s known for its handling and affordability. Its 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter engine might not be the most powerful, but it’s responsive and provides plenty of fun behind the wheel. The Miata also features a lightweight design, a nimble chassis, and a precise 5-speed or 6-speed manual transmission.

3. Subaru Impreza WRX (2002-2007)

The Subaru Impreza WRX is a rally-bred performance car that offers a combination of speed and practicality. Its 2.5-liter turbocharged engine produces 227 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The WRX also features all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned suspension, and 17-inch alloy wheels, making it a great choice for both road and rally driving.

4. Volkswagen GTI (1999-2006)

The Volkswagen GTI is a hot hatch that combines German engineering with performance and affordability. Its 1.8-liter turbocharged engine produces 180 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a 5-speed or 6-speed manual transmission. The GTI also features a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a limited-slip differential, making it a fun and engaging car to drive.

5. Toyota Corolla XRS (2005-2008)

The Toyota Corolla XRS is a sport compact that combines reliability with performance. Its 2.4-liter engine produces 170 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The XRS also features a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler, giving it a sporty and aggressive look.

6. Hyundai Tiburon (2003-2008)

The Hyundai Tiburon is a stylish coupe that offers a surprising amount of performance for the money. Its 2.7-liter V6 engine produces 172 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a 5-speed or 6-speed manual transmission. The Tiburon also features a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler, making it a fun and sporty car to drive.

7. Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V (2002-2006)

The Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V is a compact sedan that offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience. Its 2.5-liter engine produces 180 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Spec V also features a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler, making it a great choice for those who want a sporty and affordable sedan.

8. Ford Focus SVT (2002-2004)

The Ford Focus SVT is a hot hatch that offers a combination of performance and practicality. Its 2.0-liter Duratec engine produces 170 horsepower and 143 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The SVT also features a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a limited-slip differential, making it a fun and capable car to drive.

9. Chevrolet Cobalt SS (2005-2007)

The Chevrolet Cobalt SS is a compact sedan that offers a surprising amount of performance for the money. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 205 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The SS also features a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler, making it a fun and sporty car to drive.

10. Saturn Ion Red Line (2004-2007)

The Saturn Ion Red Line is a compact sedan that offers a combination of performance and affordability. Its 2.0-liter Ecotec engine produces 205 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Red Line also features a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler, making it a fun and sporty car to drive.