Motorist’s Guide to the Most Fun Cars under RM 50k
Looking for a car that can provide you a sublime driving experience without breaking the bank? In Malaysia, we don’t need supercars to have fun on the winding road passes. Whether you’re looking for something more practical or a raw driving experience, we at Motorist have compiled a list of the 5 most fun cars under RM 50k.
1) Honda Civic (FD2)+(FB) (RM 30K -50K)
Although this is an obvious choice, there’s a reason why enthusiasts still love these cars! They’re fun to drive, practical, and almost indestructibly reliable despite their age. We’re talking specifically about the FD (2005-2012) and facelifted FB (2014-2017) chassis. We’d recommend you go for the 2.0 liter models because they’re equipped with a 5-speed automatic with paddle shifters for some DIY action.
The FD chassis has Macpherson struts up front and double wishbones at the rear, giving it a lively driving dynamic that enthusiasts appreciate. The FB however is forgotten by most, as it doesn’t look as good as its FD older brother. However, it still boasts terrific handling from its independent suspension all round. It also has enough ‘umph’ to put a smile on your face on the highways or twisty mountain passes, all while being able to carry your whole family. If you’re planning for mods, both cars have huge aftermarket support in Malaysia as well so take your pick.
2) Lexus IS250 (2006-2013) (RM40K-50K)
Looking for a sports saloon? The Lexus IS250 is a classic choice for those who’re looking for a perfect mix of luxury and sportiness. The model has a 2.5 liter V6 engine under the hood that puts out 207 PS and 250nm of torque, making it one of the fastest cars in this list. This is paired with a 6-speed automatic sending power to the rear wheels. Yep you heard that right, rear wheel drive! Meaning that this machine has some proper potential for some weekend spirited driving sessions.
Furthermore, this is a Lexus we’re talking about here. Not only does the interior feel premium even after a decade, these things are basically bulletproof from Lexus’s meticulous engineering. Spare parts are more expensive than others of course, but it’s a small price to pay for the smiles per liter you’ll be getting out of this machine.
3) Nissan Cefiro (A31) (RM 20K to 50K)
Let’s shift gears to now talking about the raw driving experience, and the A31 Nissan Cefiro provides just that. This car needs no introduction to the drift scene in Malaysia, it’s been a staple in the scene for more than 2 decades now and it’s not hard to see why. It has good weight distribution, 5-speed manual and rear wheel drive. It also shares many components with Nissan’s legendary Skyline chassis, from suspension, chassis and transmission. The most notable thing it shares with the Skyline is its engine, the RB20 and 25 series engines. 
The one we recommend you get most is either the RB20DET or RB25DE but the other selections are fine too. It can be modified into a drift missile or street car if you’d so like from its strong aftermarket support. If you like working on your car and want a pure driving experience for cheap, you can’t really go wrong with a Cefiro.
No list of fun cars is complete without the mention of at least one Beemer, this list included. The E36 chassis from BMW is widely regarded as one of the best models they’ve ever produced. It has one of the best handling characteristics, and has powerplant options ranging from a modest 4 cylinder to BMW’s signature inline sixes. The engine is mated to either a 6-speed automatic or, if you’re lucky, a 5 or 6-speed manual transmission option.
We’d recommend the sedan rather than the Ci coupe, mostly because it’s out of budget and they’re much rarer than the sedan nowadays. However, if you do find one for a good deal it’s worth every penny! Like the other cars on this list, aftermarket support is plentiful and the fan communities are very active and supportive. If you want a fun and affordable European car, this is probably the best choice for a track day on Sunday, back to work on Monday.
5) Proton Saga 1.3 Manual 2024 (RM 34,800)
This might be a curve ball for some of you but this car is surprisingly fun and it's available in a manual, in 2024! We all have responsibilities, whether it be tight budgets or having a family, we can’t afford to work on our cars all the time. This car provides a good balance between affordability, reliability and fun. It's perfect for sensible drivers that still want a little spice in their life. 
The 1.3 liter 4 cylinder in this car is peppy and it corners well thanks to Proton’s signature handling tuning. With the bonus of a 5-speed manual, the Proton Saga delivers a surprisingly fun ride for its price. Not to mention it being a new car, it’s still covered under warranty and has a low cost of ownership. The Saga proves that you don’t need an old JDM or European car to put a smile on your face.
How Motorist Malaysia Can Help You Find A Fun Car
But finding the right car is just the beginning! To make your car buying and ownership experience even better, download the Motorist Malaysia app. Here’s how we can help:
Access to a wide selection of cars: The Motorist app provides a vast database of used
cars listed for sale, including a range of fun cars to choose from. Whether you want a
coupe, sports saloon or a sedan, you’ll find multiple options that suit your tastes.Car Valuation : Unsure about how much a used car is worth? The Motorist app includes
a free car evaluation tool. This feature helps you assess the market value of any used
car, ensuring you don’t overpay. It’s a great way to compare prices and ensure you're
getting the best deal.Financing and Insurance Assistance : Once you've found your ideal fun car, the Motorist
app helps you explore financing and insurance options. Whether you’re considering a
loan or want to compare insurance plans, the app provides easy access to resources
that streamline the process.
Whether you're a driving enthusiast or someone simply looking for an affordable yet fun car, the options on this list prove that you don’t need to break the bank to enjoy an exciting driving experience. From the iconic Honda Civic to the surprisingly peppy Proton Saga, each of these cars offers a unique blend of performance, reliability, and driving pleasure that won’t leave you disappointed.
To simplify your used car search and ensure you're getting the best deal, the Motorist App is the ultimate tool for comparing prices, checking vehicle histories, securing financing, and scheduling inspections. Download the app today and start your journey towards finding your perfect fun car!
Read More: The Motorist Guide on best used family cars for under RM60K in Malaysia.
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