The Best Budget Beginner Rally Cars

[@jeff34566]

I’m new to all this. What site are you using to find these cars ?

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

I made this when I was younger with less experience and less of a grip on how rally actually works, but I've got a better understanding now. Most of the listings I found for this video I pulled off craigslist or facebook marketplace, which are great resources for used cars if you know how to spot scams and money pits. If you want to get involved in ARA (American Rally Association), you need a car that fits their regulations, including all the safety equipment. Retrofitting a street car to meet ARA certification is going to cost $15-$30k when you factor in seats, harnesses, roll cage, fire suppression, etc. Most people get into stage rally by picking up a used rally car that's already been modified to meet the ARA rules (or a previous version of the ARA rules). The best sites I've seen to find used rally cars are www.specialstage.com/forums/rally-cars-for-sale.84/ and rallyanarchy.com/phorum/list.php?7. ARA is a great ruleset that runs on a lot of awesome stages all throughout the country, but it is a serious financial commitment. The cheapest way to get into rally is to find a rallycross organizer close to where you live and participate in some local rallycross. All you need is a street legal car, a driver's license, a helmet (but you can usually borrow one), and enough money to pay for registration (no more than $70). Any of the cars I mentioned in this video would be well suited to rallycross, and you could pretty feasibly pick one up and start running it. My buddy Nick and I actually have been taking the 2006 Civic featured in the thumbnail out to our local rallycross and it's been awesome, here's a video we made about our first experience: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXLCmoywZ6ifhZY We should have another video out that goes into more detail on how to get involved, but it's pretty straightforward. If you have any other questions, feel free to respond to this comment.

[@jeff34566]

3 years later and still replies within 24 hours. Amazing !

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

@@jeff34566 I try to keep up with everything, even my old content, I hope you stick around and enjoy what I put out!

[@jeff34566]

@@carpartsandexhaustfarts you sir have a life long subscriber

[@jamesshives5679]

This is a great list that actually has some unique suggestions. Alot of lists have the the same cars, and while of course some cars will always been mentioned everywhere you go, something like the pontiac vibe would have never crossed my mind as an option. And who knew they had awd as an option? That is good information!

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Thank you for the honest feedback! I'm glad you enjoyed my more creative options!

[@themotoredfinnproductions4456]

My dad used to have an S4 Quattro chipped, turbo, made about 350hp. He once beat a Subaru Impreza STI on a public road race on a motorway.

[@DctrBread]

from checking out classifieds, the most significant budget rally/rallyX routes I saw were: naturally aspirated imprezas, yaris, golf 16v, fiesta, focus SVT, volvo 240. Seems big thing to look for is just a used rally car thats ready to go, you can basically never build your own for less money unless you have lots of skills and free time.

[@djsweaty2890]

I can tell you did some extensive research and number placement contemplation. So if I'm ever in the need to kick up some dirt, I'll use this vid

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Thanks! Yeah this video took a lot of research, most of it was surfing craigslist honestly. I'm glad you hear you consider it reputable!

[@aidan1896]

Befor I watch this ima say Subaru, almost any subaru. Actually probably any subaru

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Correct

[@Hippienolic2]

The most important part of a budget rally car isn’t the initial price, but the price to keep it going and how easily you can work on it

[@joebone3151]

I have been using my 2015 encore to practice its the fwd base model. I am trying to stick with fwd for now I like the powerplant so I am looking for chevy sonic hatch backs for my first proper bolt on build so on and so forth. My encore is not stock running about 175-180 hp. Got my 0-60 down to 6.5-7 seconds on stock gearing. Top speed 160-164 mph

[@matiissgrislis5174]

deamn 18min video about rally cars? Yep this is my kind of channel

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Thanks man, appreciate the love!

[@jonathanpeterson1]

Stick with the 4cyl A4’s if you want to go racing. Weight weight weight. That, and the 4cyl will be the most reliable or easily fixed.

[@rednuclearmc3856]

I live in south america specifically peru and because of how many old beetles were built in the area people buy them and juice them up for rallying. You can literally buy a rusting one for 1.2 to 1.5 and still have the important bits in relatively good shape to salvage replacements from. Alternatively the accesibility of replacement parts is huge and the community loves to help. My dad built a 71' 1600cc brazilian beetle and stroked to 2000cc and added a turbo. won 5 rallies in a row even one where it finished on 3 cylinders but a busted gearbox has left it benched for the past few years, we had issues with overheating as the stock 4 gears didnt have enough top end for the long straights and ordered a custon 5 shift gearbox but lack of budget and a shitty gearbox mechanic (He is a lazy bum) have left the project in limbo. the light weight and Rear engine provide a lot of traction out of corners but its a bit tricky in flowing sections where the weight transfer can catch you off guard. You can also repair almost anything with a basic toolkit as the engine is relatively simple and great for desert conditions (where I live) as its air cooled and radiators tend to get damaged with rocks and make Cars DNF. Sorry for bad english its my second language

[@Eidenbites]

“ ive never actually done rally, but this is what I found on the internet “ Seems legit

[@kelsiburr883]

The videos from the porche 944 from targa Tasmania some of the videos are taken on my uncles property

[@JWL123]

An amazing video with such a great variety of options

[@rednuclearmc3856]

The corollas are pretty popular in the autocross scene too relatively light and incredibly common

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Can't go wrong with them

[@ammarisrar2005]

What model year exactly?

[@rednuclearmc3856]

E100 chassis @@ammarisrar2005

[@TESTED-TOBACCO]

Sorry I broke the 420 like streak but you deserved a like bro 🤘🤘🤘

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Thank you! No worries :)

[@silver1407]

i can definitely attest to the vibe/matrix being bulletproof. I wasn't a rally driver, but the Vibe survived a teen driver and 7 collisions that I can recall while still running

[@adamadams6740]

I’d like to add the Honda Fit,great handling cheap reliable ride.

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Honda Fit is supreme. One of the quickest guys at the RX I compete in drives a Fit. Excellent value for money these days.

[@jacemiguelpeterson5632]

There are tons of volvos and saabs in my area for cheap

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

That's awesome, you're lucky

[@farzamniabaty4798]

Since you were the first person to had some creatively choices on the budget rally cars I really really want to know your opinion on using a Nissan juke Fwd? It's not a budget one but still.

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

I feel that any option is viable with enough determination. The juke does have a higher center of gravity and it might not be the easiest to support but it's not the worst option in that class I can think of. I won't say it's a good call, but I don't think it would be undoable either.

[@matthunter4826]

Could you make a list on budget drift cars next?

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

I plan on it.

[@matthunter4826]

Can’t wait to see what cars are on the drift list. 😊

[@ThatBustedVQ]

350z and G35 lmao the go too. But I’d recommend it it’s reliable as long as you watch oil level

[@haoye2413]

Any mid 2000s bmw you can still find them relative cheap price, finding parts and community are easy

[@robby_boy7418]

I have a 2005 vw derby fwd that makes 85 horse power. I wonder how fast could i go before i die.

[@kettlebellcarnivore-vr5cw]

My car is my favourite budget rally car! 2015 Chevy Cruze. Cheap, plentiful, handles great, and mine is around 250hp at the wheels thanks to BNR parts and tuning! It's on my channel, a bit.

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

That's fantastic man, that thing looks like so much fun.

[@SNOLLYS]

im only 14 but i want to work over the summers and buy a celica or a4/s4!

[@d3athpyr0]

I sold my AWD DSM back in 2013 and it was the worst decision of my life. I want it back in my garage not running 9months out of the year

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

What a shame, I really wanna get my hands on one some day. I feel for you, what a tragic loss.

[@turbo_co27]

Great video, thorough research and great clips :)

[@ThatBustedVQ]

Hyundai tiburon is great option, cheap, decent torque for rally with the V6 trim. 5 and 6 speed manauls, fairly reliable, and Porsche tuned stock suspension lol

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

If it can work, make it work lol

[@ThatBustedVQ]

@@carpartsandexhaustfarts yeah no Hyundai did pretty go with the tiburon in rally stages, and currently with their new hatchback rally cars they been killing it on the podium 👀.

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

@@ThatBustedVQ Hyundai is one of those companies that I think gets sidelined way too often, I think they're got some good stuff going for them and some real potential.

[@ThatBustedVQ]

@@carpartsandexhaustfarts yeah they really are growing much like Japanese companies started out as cheap cars people would laugh at. Especially with former bmw M division executive working for them now. They really stepped up the styling and performance with the N lineup, genesis, and now they are working on a mid engine sports car. Really come a long way from the early 2000s

[@jamespakan4914]

I’d go for cars with shorter wheel base, and better handling cars. Like a Peugeot, ect. I don’t know why you would pick a mustang for rally, but I guess if it works it works.

[@tempestandacomputer6951]

Noob here. Just got a 97 civic and even though i don't really have events near me, there are some dirt areas I can mess around a little in. Where do you start to set up a car for this? Suspension I guess is a spot?

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Also a noob so don't worry about it. I think the first thing you should think about is protection/maintenance. Make sure your brakes, engine, trans, suspension, etc can handle the type of driving you're trying to do, even if all those parts are stock. Then, look into metal underbody panels, mudflaps, and other protective pieces to ensure you're not gonna do a ton of damage when driving. If you go into some actual rally competition, they'll have very clear guidelines for how you should set up your car.

[@stephenlott6968]

Are those Craigslist deals even real though? About half the cars on that site are just scams of some kind.

[@j.soboll6936]

The subaru legacy gt wagon is good too

[@SaintBuick]

Solid work.

[@Ciberpotato]

What about the Audi TT Quattro? An early 2000s model can be pretty cheap

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

A good option, I just couldn't find any for a good price in my area. They are still quite well known, and as such they do have a bit more demand than you might expect, so prices can be unpredictable. Certainly a great call, I just didn't include it specifically.

[@aidan1896]

I'm so glad Impreza got 1st. God bless

[@tempestandacomputer6951]

That toyota tree hug looked severe for the driver

[@laineracing]

That was a Peugeot 206 but yes indeed the driver was VERY close to not surviving but he did and got to thank god for that

[@aidenstephens859]

Why did u show an 8th gen civic on the cover and only cover 5th and 6th gens? The 8th and 10th gens are better performing than the rest of them except for a select few

[@deven.coleman]

an amazing list

[@Pendragon69608]

I want me a renault me and my wife have a 91 Volkswagen crabriolet or rabbit karman gia edition rally suspension stock from factory and when it used to run, that thing skoods and turns flawlessly on rough terrain with 101 hp little car = balls✊🏼

[@kuchingi4486]

Is the lancer glx 2009 ok?

[@tbmavenger71]

Could i turn a jeep patriot into a rally car?

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Sure you could, but there are a number of factors to consider. Could you slap some knobby tires on and rip it down some dirt roads? Sure. Could you do that safely? Probably not. Could you enter it in competition? Depends on the competition. SCCA RallyCross (where most people get started with amateur level rally) generally requires that cars have a low rollover risk since cages aren't required, but I have seen a Chevy Blazer and an old Ford F1 truck out at a few events, so SUVs aren't explicitly prohibited. HPD ran a Honda Passport for a little while in ARA and did quite well with it, so you can totally run a compact SUV in stage rally and get away with it. Keep in mind though, if you want to do stage rally you need to invest about $15k in safety equipment and the like to fit the regs, so you have to ask yourself if it's worth it to put $15k into a Jeep Patriot for stage rally (not to mention the additional costs of ARA). I'd imagine you're not asking that question with serious stage rally in mind though, I'd imagine you're asking because you've already got a Jeep Patriot as your street car and you want to have some fun on the weekends. If that's your situation than yes, it's feasible. Race what you've got, have fun and enjoy the community. SCCA RX is a great way to get involved. I will say though that it's probably not the best option. Jeep Patriots are pretty notorious for reliability/quality issues, and those issues will all be massively exacerbated by intense RX driving. I personally would be a little worried about rollover risk as well. If you want to do RX or rally more seriously and not destroy your daily, I'd look into a well used Subaru or some other cheap second hand option that you don't feel bad about destroying, but still has enough life left to hold up to some serious abuse. If you're interested in learning more about my first time with RX, I made a video about it you can watch here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXLCmoywZ6ifhZY Good luck and have fun! (P.S. This is all coming from the assumption you're thinking about getting involved in American Rally, if you're from EU or another market I don't have enough good info to really tell you much.)

[@tbmavenger71]

@carpartsandexhaustfarts The jeep is my daily, so I probably would be better off buying an old Subaru. Thanks for the input!

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

@@tbmavenger71 Of course, my pleasure! I hope you're able to get out there and have fun!

[@bananajoeoriginal]

This is epic. U should try rallying

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

I agree my dude, but there aren't any events that are close to us. You should see me in George's 4 x 4 though, I rip it up.

[@djsweaty2890]

Hit me up when you join an event. I'd like to see that

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

@@djsweaty2890 I will as soon as I can, I'm hoping I can get into the some small rallies in the coming years but we'll see. Illinois doesn't really have much that I can find, so it'll have to be in either Missouri or Indiana where they actually hold events. Plus I need a car that I'm willing to destroy, but obviously they're out there.

[@failfail715]

Car Parts and Exhaust Farts what events you they have in Indiana I live in Sullivan country and I want to try it

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

@@failfail715 Mostly just smaller local rally cross events. Unfortunately, they don't have any big stuff like the 100 Acre Woods Rally, which really sucks. I can't point you towards anything directly, but keep your eyes open.

[@benhayward7706]

Found a Honda civic for 500 in the boonies of Missouri

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

That's solid

[@gergelyhanyecz6873]

Neat video. But buying a car is just 40% of the process at max. You have to convert it. A 5000$ car costs at least 2 times that in the end.

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Very true, I was just factoring in the initial cost. The long term conversion/maintenance that is required to make a rule compliant rally car is far more expensive than the cost of purchasing the car.

[@levisimpson3291]

5k is the expensive side? This is my kinda video

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

We talking shoestring budget, who wants to spend 5k just on the car to crash?

[@ThatBustedVQ]

Fr tired of seeing 10k and 15k as budget cars on list lol

[@vforvendetta3074]

So, as much as i like this video, anything above a v6 is useless in rally. No grip means a limit of torque and power. It just means youll be sliding way too much.

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

I'm glad you liked the video. I made this some years ago before I had any real world exposure so I was pretty oblivious, it's just for fun. As you mentioned, there's a number of reasons why you don't typically see big displacement motors in competitive rally. River City Rally's IS350 rally cars with their 3.5 L V6s tend to do quite well, but they do get very loose and while you occasionally run into V8s like in Pat Moro's Chevy Sonic they aren't that common in top categories. This video is very much for hobbyists though, and I think there's some room there for bigger displacement motors if you accept their inherent limitations.

[@laughingman630]

What no Lancer :(

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Lancer's great but most of the cheap ones are FWD and pretty beat on in my area. Evos are a $30k ordeal where I live so no way I'm taking that in a budget list over a cheap Impreza. If money was no object than the Evo would be near or at the top of the list for street cars you can build for rally, it's a beast. The base FWD lancer just doesn't beat out the competition given it's price/the availability of parts I'm afraid.

[@Dragon228833]

U showed a 1 series in the 3 series spot

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Oh my bad, I should have been more vigilant in finding the right footage. Thank you for the correction.

[@ZZH1986]

v8 RWD (mustang) cars are NOT good for rally.. the weight of that engine in the front throws off the balance in turns and causes understeer.

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

I made this list before I had any real world experience and I didn't really have a clue what I was talking about, but you do see some pretty successful front engine rear wheel drive cars in rally with some relatively heavy motors. Michael Hooper and the River City Rally crew run the Lexus IS350 which has a relatively hefty V6 up front and they've been doing quite well overall (competitive with R5s and the like). I know there are a few Foxbody mustangs that hold their own in ARA too. I imagine the big Windsor/Romeo V8s in the SN95s would carry too much weight up front to offset the lackluster power they'd be delivering in the rear though, so I'd imagine they wouldn't be too practical. I was really just in the "what's the cheapest RWD car you can reasonably get" mindset.

[@ChrisBrinleeJr]

And then the pandemic hit and all prices doubled 💸

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Tragically, most of these were pretty unrealistic to begin with

[@TouringCarsAndStuff]

Never use a automatic for rally I’m using this list for a budget build in forza horizon Another good car is a Vauxhall Astra or Corsa

[@delorean8757]

it say fwd on a mustang wtf 7:29 and pause it a 730

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

I know, the owner didn't realize what that meant I don't think. I know for a fact that that was a GT though (you can see "GT" on the bumper and it's listed as having a V8) and the mustang has only ever came in rwd. So I think the guy who was selling it just made a mistake.

[@OmegaF77]

Technically there was a FWD Mustang back in the 90s but it failed.

[@kettlebellcarnivore-vr5cw]

Yeah, Ford was "Probing" the market...​@@OmegaF77

[@kulbir343]

where's integra bro

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Excellent option, but they always come up just a little more pricey than I'd like, plus the civic is so similar for so much less.

[@delorean8757]

subies for live on rally

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Subie gang for life

[@AE-jd1yu]

Eibtohincahe jätmata miit midagi nüüdnkoju tagasi mängima nüüd

[@AE-jd1yu]

ELly 04 räbalad tänanv gameplaybrallyn04bgameplau

[@Ferraridude13]

The vibe and the matrix are literally the same car. And you can’t get awd with a manual on either one, they did not make it. Also the Celica is the same platform as well, so also not a separate option. This video has some good suggestions and some pretty bad ones, you really shouldn’t have made this video, you don’t offer any actual knowledge of what makes a good rally car.

[@landonnice2272]

Lol a used Audi is never cheap my guy

[@carpartsandexhaustfarts]

Certainly not anymore