0MY CART5 Best First Cars to Modify
Author: Sterling Feathers
Sterling Feathers
Sterling was born in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and has had a massive passion for cars since he could talk. He studied Business Administration at Ferris State University hoping to run his own car dealership one day. As time went on, Sterling began writing car reviews on his own website until he found his home with us as our first Copywriter! He loves everything about the car culture and was Vice President of the motorsports club during his time at Ferris. Sterling enjoys going to every car show and meet possible, attending autocross events, and going for long road cruises with other members in the car scene. He currently drives a 2016 Volkswagen GTI with a stage 2 tune, downpipe, BC Racing coilovers, and a set of Artisa ArtFormed Elders.
December 3, 2020
Sometimes the number of cars you see for sale can be overwhelming if you're not sure what platform you want to get into.
That's why we're here to tell you our top 5 best first cars to modify.
1. Honda Civic
The Honda Civic has been around forever and has become a staple in the car community. These cars have an absolutely insane amount of aftermarket support and are fairly easy to work on.
See More Photos of This Civic!
Not to mention, when compared to other platforms, parts are pretty cheap and you of course have Honda reliability to back. However, if you're looking to jump into a Honda Civic, try to get one without any rust and as close to stock as possible.
What Wheel Fit The Honda Civic?
SEE MORE PHOTOS OF THIS CIVIC!
These cars can look absolutely banging on a set of coilovers with flush fitment. As long as the body is in good shape, a good looking Civic is pretty easy to acheive. Lowering it and putting some nice wheels on can turn the ordinary economy car into a car that's right at home in any car meet.
SEE MORE PHOTOS OF THIS CIVIC!
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2. Mazda Miata
You've heard it all over the internet. The answer is always Miata. This is because the Mazda Miata is such a simple car with a ton of character. The Miata is a lightweight RWD platform that is perfect for anyone looking to get into entry-level motorsports. Being that the Miata is so light, any modification you do will most likely make a noticeable difference.
This would be the perfect platform for any new enthusiast because the cars are relatively simple in their design and have a vast amount of aftermarket support. Want to have a show car? Miata. Rather hit up autocross or track days? Miata. Well, what if you want to drift? You guessed it; Miata.
The Mazda Miata offers a cheap, fun, and reliable platform that is easy to mod and plenty of options to fit any sort of build.
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3. 86 Platform
The 86 platform refers to the Toyota GT86, Scion FR-S, and Subaru BRZ. If you want a light, modern, rwd car, this one is perfect for you.
The aftermarket is huge! You can find anything from widebody kits to superchargers. The platform is huge in the community today and has earned its place as a go-to for someone new to cars!
These fun, RWD coupes are now starting to show some serious depreciation meaning you can pick one up for a relatively low cost.
Plus, you'd be among one of the largest car communities in the entire scene. This car has arguably the biggest range of aftermarket parts and fits the same demographic as the Miata, just with a more modern interior and more aggressive design.
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4. Subaru WRX
If you live anywhere where there is a considerable amount of snow, chances are that a majority of your car meets are filled with the Subaru WRX. That's because this car is perfect for someone who wants to get into something with a turbo but needs the convenience of 4 doors and AWD.
The tunability of this car is almost unlimited and parts are everywhere. The Subaru community is also huge so if you have questions, chances are that the support is out there.
Plus, if you live anywhere in the Northwest or any place that really gets snow, these cars absolutely tear up the winter months. Just make sure you get a good set of winter tires.
The Subaru community has been one of the strongest groups in the car scene for years. They're absolutely everywhere and sometimes that isn't a bad thing. There are plenty of forums and resources to help you better understand the famous Boxer engine and the platform as a whole.
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5. Ford Focus ST
We can't leave out the hot hatches on this list. The Ford Focus ST is really starting to come down in price and makes a great platform to learn on while keeping practicality in mind.
Powered by a 252 horsepower turbocharged 4 cylinder engine and paired to a 6-speed manual transmission, this isn't just a normal Ford Focus. These cars pack a decent punch and have a ton of tuning potential.
The Focus also keeps the functionality of a hatchback alive while modern tech and optional Recaro bucket seats remind you that a fun car can be comfortable too.
The Focus ST looks crazy good on a bagged setup, Dakota knows all about this, and works really well as a show build.
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We hope you enjoyed our top 5 first cars to modify list! Make sure you go and check out wheels, tires, and suspension when you pick up your new ride!
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