4 Affordable Street Cars That Are Good for Drag Racing

Do you want to get into drag racing but don’t want to overspend on the car? Check out these affordable models perfect for legal drag racing!

Sanctioned drag racing is among the most accessible forms of motorsport, as many everyday vehicles can be modified into competitive race cars with modest upgrades. But which affordable street cars are good for drag racing? We answer that and more in our guide below.

Honda Civic

The Honda Civic may not seem like a drag racer at first glance, but it has been a favorite in the community for decades. Known for its lightweight frame, reliable engine, and affordability, it offers practicality and performance potential.

Many enthusiasts swap the stock engine for a K-series to gain significant horsepower, while its well-designed suspension provides excellent traction. With countless aftermarket options and a passionate community for support, the Civic is an ideal choice for budget drag racers.

Mazda Miata

The Mazda Miata, known for its sharp handling and lightweight design, is an affordable gem that can hold its own on the drag strip. While primarily popular for road racing and autocross, its compact size and rear-wheel-drive layout make it a solid drag racing contender.

Enthusiasts often turbocharge the Miata’s engine or swap in LS V8 engines for serious power. Classic models like the NA Miata (1990–1997) offer a versatile platform capable of delivering impressive performance.

Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang is a staple in drag racing, celebrated for its bold design, impressive power, and affordability. Older fourth-generation models (1994–2004) with 4.6-liter V8 engines are fan favorites, delivering significant horsepower without high upfront costs. Its robust frame, rear-wheel drive, and extensive aftermarket support—offering upgrades like suspension kits and superchargers—make it a perfect choice for racers of all levels.

Chevrolet Camaro

The Chevrolet Camaro, like the Mustang, is an American classic with plenty of performance and style. Fourth-generation models (1993–2002) offer budget-friendly options with powerful engines like the LS1 V8.

Its aerodynamic design and sturdy build make it agile on the drag strip, and its naturally aspirated engines are perfect for upgrades like forced induction or enhanced exhaust systems. Balancing affordability with race-ready potential, the Camaro is ideal for those seeking tradition and thrill.

Turning a Street Car Into a High-Performance Drag Racer

Now that you have an affordable street car that’s good for drag racing, it’s time to transform it into a high-performance machine. To optimize your car for the best drag racing times, you’ll need a few things, like a performance clutch kit and an upgraded intake system.

You’ll also want to reduce its weight as much as possible and upgrade to racing tires. Enhancing engine performance with mods like forced induction or tuning software will ensure your car is ready to give maximum output on the strip. Safety is critical, so make sure to install roll cages and racing harnesses before pushing your limits.

Explore the Thrills of Drag Racing With the Perfect Car

You can enjoy legal motorsports without breaking the bank. There are plenty of affordable models out there that are excellent platforms for racing, from classic muscle cars like the Mustang and Camaro to the slick Miata. Start your drag racing adventure today by exploring these popular options and connect with other enthusiasts to share tips, tricks, and success stories.