6. Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB)
The second-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata was in production between 1999 and 2005 which means that this model is old enough to fit the price of $5,000 or less. Even though you would end up with a car that is more than 13 years old, the Miata has everything you have been looking for in a vehicle. It is fun to drive, plus you can take the roof down when the sun is shining. Furthermore, the six-speed manual transmission is quite responsive and should we even mention that this car earned the Guinness Record Prize for the world’s best-selling two-seat sports car.