The Most Fun Compact Car to Drive, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the compact car you think is the most fun!

Updated on Apr 28, 2024 06:27

Picking the right compact car for a thrilling drive can often feel like a tall order amidst a sea of ever-improving options. Every driver has unique preferences that play into what makes a vehicle truly enjoyable for them. From smooth handling to peppy acceleration, and intuitive technology, the personal connection we form with our cars is undeniably influenced by these features. Hence, capturing which compact cars provide the best driving pleasure could guide potential buyers to make informed decisions tailored to their enjoyment. This ranking emerges from the collective experiences and opinions of drivers like you. By voting for your top pick, you contribute to a real-time list that benefits everyone from casual drivers to automobile aficionados.

What Is the Most Fun Compact Car to Drive?

1

56
votes
Alexander-93 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Mazda

The Miata is known for its agile handling and precise steering. It's a blast to drive on twisty roads and has a lively engine.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a popular two-seater convertible sports car known for its reliability and longevity. It is a lightweight and fun-to-drive vehicle that has gained a strong reputation among car enthusiasts.

Engine: 2.0L Skyactiv-G 4-cylinder

Horsepower: 181 hp

Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic

Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive

Top Speed: 155 mph
Mazda MX-5 Miata in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most reliable convertible
- Position 1 of 10 in Most comfortable convertible car
- Position 2 of 10 in Most reliable two-seater car
- Position 4 of 10 in Most popular Mazda car
- Position 5 of 10 in Most reliable foreign car
- Position 8 of 10 in Most reliable cars for longevity
2

54
votes
Charles01 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Volkswagen Golf GTI

Volkswagen

The GTI is a popular hot hatch with a powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension. It's fun to drive and practical for everyday use.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a compact hatchback car that blends practicality with performance. Known for its sporty character and engaging driving experience, the Golf GTI has become a favorite among automotive enthusiasts looking to modify and enhance its performance capabilities.

Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4

Horsepower: 228 hp

Torque: 258 lb-ft

Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic

Drive Type: Front-wheel drive
Volkswagen Golf GTI in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most comfortable hot hatch
- Position 1 of 10 in Most popular VW Golf
- Position 2 of 10 in Most fun car to drive daily
- Position 8 of 10 in Most fun cars to modify
3

21
votes
Vauxford · CC BY-SA 4.0

Ford Fiesta ST

Ford Motor Company

The Fiesta ST is a small but powerful hot hatch with a sporty suspension and sharp handling. It's also affordable and practical.
The Ford Fiesta ST is a high-performance variant of the Ford Fiesta, offering an exhilarating driving experience in a compact package. This sporty hatchback is known for its agile handling, peppy acceleration, and dynamic driving dynamics.

Engine: 1.6L EcoBoost Inline-4

Horsepower: 197 hp

Torque: 202 lb-ft

Transmission: 6-speed manual

Front Suspension: Independent MacPherson struts
4

13
votes
Mini Cooper S

BMW Group

The Mini Cooper S is a stylish and playful car with sharp handling and a turbocharged engine. It's also customizable with a variety of options.
The Mini Cooper S is a compact hot hatch that offers both style and performance. It is renowned for its agile handling and compact size, making it a joy to drive in urban settings. With its iconic retro-modern design, the Mini Cooper S stands out on the road, offering a unique blend of classic and contemporary elements. The interior of the Mini Cooper S is well-crafted, providing a comfortable and premium feel for both the driver and passengers.

Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged

Power: 189 horsepower

Torque: 207 lb-ft

Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic

Acceleration (0-60 mph): 6.4 seconds
Mini Cooper S in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most reliable Mini Cooper
- Position 5 of 10 in Most comfortable hot hatch
- Position 7 of 10 in Most popular rally car
- Position 10 of 10 in Most reliable AWD hatchback
5

10
votes
Alvintrusty · CC BY-SA 4.0

Honda Civic Si

Honda

The Civic Si is a sporty compact car with a powerful engine and responsive handling. It's also practical and has a comfortable interior.
The Honda Civic Si is a popular compact car known for its sporty performance and fun driving experience. It is a variant of the Honda Civic model and has gained a reputation for its sport-tuned suspension and responsive handling.

Horsepower: 205 hp

Torque: 192 lb-ft

Engine: 1.5L turbocharged inline-4

Transmission: 6-speed manual

Front Suspension: MacPherson strut
Honda Civic Si in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular Honda Civic
6

1
votes
Tino Rossini · CC BY 2.0

Subaru WRX

Subaru Corporation

The WRX is a popular performance car with all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine. It's fun to drive and has a cult-like following.
The Subaru WRX is a high-performance compact hatchback known for its combination of sportiness, comfort, and all-weather capability. It offers a thrilling driving experience while also accommodating daily practicality.

Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged Boxer engine

Horsepower: 268 hp

Torque: 258 lb-ft

Transmission: 6-speed manual or CVT

Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Subaru WRX in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most reliable sport sedan
- Position 4 of 10 in Most fun car to drive daily
- Position 6 of 10 in Most comfortable hot hatch
- Position 8 of 10 in Most comfortable Subaru
7

12
votes
lorenza · CC BY-SA 2.0

Fiat 500 Abarth

Fiat

The Abarth is a small but sporty car with a lively engine and sharp handling. It also has a unique and stylish design.
The Fiat 500 Abarth is a small and sporty compact car that offers a thrilling driving experience. Designed and manufactured by Fiat, the Abarth variant enhances the standard Fiat 500 with sportier features and performance upgrades.

Engine: 1.4L Turbocharged I4

Power Output: 160 horsepower

Torque: 183 lb-ft

Transmission: 5-speed manual (optional 6-speed automatic)

Acceleration: 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds
8

6
votes
Kevauto · CC BY-SA 4.0

Hyundai Veloster N

The Veloster N is a hot hatch with a powerful engine and sporty suspension. It's also practical and comfortable for everyday driving.
The Hyundai Veloster N is a high-performance hot hatch that offers a combination of agility, comfort, and practicality. It is the brainchild of Hyundai Motor Company's Performance Development Division, led by Albert Biermann.

Engine: 2.0L turbocharged inline-4

Power: 275 horsepower

Torque: 260 lb-ft

Transmission: 6-speed manual

Front Suspension: MacPherson strut
Hyundai Veloster N in other rankings
- Position 7 of 10 in Most comfortable hot hatch
9

11
votes
Motohide Miwa · CC BY 2.0

Toyota 86/Subaru BRZ

Toyota and Subaru

The 86 and BRZ are two sports cars with rear-wheel drive and sharp handling. They're fun to drive on winding roads and have a unique design.
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are two nearly identical sports cars that are renowned for their thrilling driving experience and compact design. These rear-wheel drive coupes were jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru, sharing many components and characteristics.

Engine: 2.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-four

Power: 205 horsepower

Torque: 156 lb-ft

Weight: around 2,800 pounds

Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
10

3
votes
M 93 · CC BY-SA 3.0 de

Chevrolet Spark

Chevrolet

The Spark is a small but zippy car with responsive handling and a peppy engine. It's also affordable and efficient.
The Chevrolet Spark is a nimble and energetic compact car designed for those seeking an entertaining driving experience. With its distinctive and modern styling, the Spark stands out from the crowd. It offers a compact and agile driving dynamic, making it perfect for navigating through urban environments.

Engine Type: 1.4L Ecotec DOHC 4-cylinder engine

Horsepower: 98 hp

Transmission: 5-speed manual or CVT automatic

Fuel Efficiency: 30 MPG city / 38 MPG highway

Seating Capacity: 4 passengers

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Discussion

Ranking factors for fun compact car

Handling and performance

A fun compact car should have quick acceleration, precise steering, and responsive brakes. It should be agile and nimble in corners, providing a balanced and well-controlled driving experience.
Interior comfort and quality

The car should have a comfortable and well-designed cabin with quality materials and ergonomic controls. It should offer a quiet and smooth ride, with minimal road and wind noise.
Technology and features

A fun compact car should include the latest technology and safety features, including infotainment systems, smartphone connectivity, advanced driver aids, and driver assistance systems.
Fuel efficiency and range

A fun compact car should have good fuel efficiency and an adequate range for daily driving, road trips, and long commutes without compromising performance.
Reliability and durability

The car should have a proven track record of reliability and durability, with low ownership costs and a long-lasting value.
Style and design

A fun compact car should have a distinctive and attractive exterior design, with a modern and stylish interior to match.
Versatility and practicality

A fun compact car should offer a versatile and practical design, with ample cargo space and seating options for passengers and their gear.
Price and value for money

A fun compact car should offer a competitive price and good value for money, taking into account its performance, features, and overall quality.
Safety

A fun compact car should have excellent safety ratings and include advanced safety features to protect its occupants in case of an accident or collision.
Brand reputation and customer satisfaction

A fun compact car should come from a reputable brand with high customer satisfaction, reflecting the overall quality, performance, and satisfaction with the car.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most fun compact car to drive. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or compact is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2656 views
186 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each compact once every 24 hours. The rank of each compact is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most fun compact car to drive

Compact cars have become increasingly popular among drivers who seek a balance between fuel efficiency, affordability, and versatility. Beyond their practicality, many compact cars are also a blast to drive, offering nimble handling, responsive steering, and zippy acceleration. Whether you're navigating city streets, cruising on the highway, or taking on winding roads, the right compact car can make any drive more enjoyable. But with so many options on the market, which one is the most fun to drive? In this article, we'll explore the top contenders and help you find the compact car that delivers the most excitement behind the wheel.