Top Buggy Cars for Off-Road

If you don’t want to build your own off-road vehicle, you can always buy one of these ready-to-go off-road cars to take on the less traveled roads.
As the automotive industry becomes saturated, keeping up with the best-performing vehicles available is a difficult undertaking. The same goes for off-road cars like dune buggies. Specifically built for cool adventures, buggies have come a long way in the previous years.
Some time back, if you needed a buggy car, all you had to do was to build it up in your own garage from the ground up. But nowadays, you can get these eccentric 4×4 machines at your nearby Powersports dealership in a myriad of shapes, sizes, and powertrain options.
If you want to experience a heart-racing and roaring ride off-road, we compiled this interesting list of our top picks for the most competent and powerful off-road cars. Whether you are an adventurer or an all-out off-road enthusiast, these cars will surely spark your interest.
Table of contents
Can-Am Maverick X3 X rs Turbo RR
Meyers Manx
You can hardly find a proper model to commence this list other than the original buggy. Even though it isn’t the first buggy ever invented, the Manx single-handedly raised the flag for dune buggies when it came out in the early 1960s. This cool ride took the world by storm and stood out from the competition with its off-road capabilities, dominating dune racing and breaking dozens of records.
The Manx is now available in several versions, including different custom chassis setups, body kits, and numerous individual parts. It’s also an inexpensive DIY option and a fun toy to include in your garage. Classic model kits cost only $2,400 and $8,727 for Manxter Dualsport units. The ready-made version, however, costs a lot more, about $30,000.
Joyner Sand Viper, 1100cc
If you love dune buggies but aren’t ready to go all-in on a high-end model yet, this Joyner Sand Viper may be ideal for you. With numerous models costing approximately $10,000 to $13,000, import and shipping costs can add slightly to the price tag. This is a fun vehicle to drive, with a 1083cc 4-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection sufficient for 90 lb-ft of torque and 86 horsepower.
For heightened fun, all this power is routed to the back via a 4-speed manual transmission. It also has an 11-gallon fuel tank, 70 mph top speed, hydraulic disk brakes, 14″ ground clearance, and more goodies in the package that promise great handling and memorable experiences.
BMS Sand Sniper T-1500 4s
Slightly comparable with Joyner above, the BMS T-1500 4s differs in some outstanding ways.
To start with, it comes with a four-seat cab instead of two. Power is also slightly advantageous, boasting a 1500cc 4-cylinder engine producing a whooping 108hp to the Joyner’s 86hp. As usual, that comes with added weight. Not to forget its own roof rack for hauling, in case you’re dreaming of a unique picnic location. And if by any chance its 29-inch massive tires fail you, a 3,000 lbs winch will certainly bail you out of any cumbersome situation.
With that said, the main variance here lies in the number of persons you can bring on board. If you need extra seats for your friends, this might be the best option for you.
Yamaha YXZ1000R SS SE
While most contemporary buggies spot an impeccable shift nowadays, it stemmed from the Yamaha YXZ1000R, which has numerous offerings in terms of sand-shredding adventure. That includes a powerful 998cc engine that produces 90 hp but with reduced weight (about 1,563), which means a higher speed.
It also comes with selectable 2WD and 4WD hydraulic disc brakes, racing shocks from Fox, and a lot of exciting possibilities. This side-by-side is priced at $20,699, which may seem a lot for its class, but Yamaha’s reputation is priceless.
Polaris RZR XP Turbo
When it comes to looks, the Polaris RZR XP has a slight resemblance to the Yamaha. The price is almost similar, with the XP Turbo starting at $20,999. Nevertheless, there are obvious differences between the two.
The Polaris RZR XP Turbo boasts a turbocharged 925cc engine that produces a whooping 168hp, which exceeds some medium-sized sedans currently available. In addition, it comes with a 14″ ground clearance, and the trim can be upgraded for heightened capabilities off-road. Though we can’t call it affordable, the XP Turbo is certainly worth your money.
Can-Am Maverick X3 X rs Turbo RR
While its price tag may cost you $6,000 more than the Polaris, Can-Am Maverick X3 X rs has more valuable offerings besides a slight power upgrade. This off-road vehicle has an impressive 172hp and 124 lb-ft of torque, trio king-size air intakes, fully adjustable Fox shock absorbers, and brand-new advanced BRP TTX suspension.
This highly customizable side-by-side costs about $27,599 in its base form or $29,299 if you order with in-house semi-active Smart-Shox suspension.
Drakart Intimidator
Leave alone a name that seems to intimidate a couple of people. Drakart’s purpose-built, hard-core body combines an exclusive lightweight chassis with a ton of power. You can choose between two enormous engines for this machine, a much more powerful 1,340cc option and a 1,300cc Hayabusa unit connected to a six-speed manual gearbox.
Besides, its power will, without a doubt, get you through sand, dirt, or anything else you throw at it, and it lands exactly how you want when airborne- thanks to its high-end Tornado suspension.
Buckshot Racing X5R
If you are a ridge master or don’t understand the significance of restriction, the X5R is your ideal ride. This Buckshot Racing X5R features plenty of power and a consistent price tag. It can be had in four configurations, including 750-hp LS7, 580-hp, 510-hp, or 600-hp LS2 setups configurations.
Besides, its optional turbos can enhance the ultimate figure to a whooping 1,200 hp, which is more than most hypercars.
A final note
With that said, dune buggies are the most fun off-road cars out there. And most of them are quite affordable to the average enthusiast. Also, they will arguably provide the most value for your money.