There’s an undeniable allure to sports cars. They represent freedom, performance, and a certain level of success. A sleek sports car with a prestigious badge can certainly make a statement. However, the assumption that owning a head-turning sports car requires a hefty price tag is a misconception. The used car market is brimming with hidden gems, offering access to stunning sports cars at surprisingly affordable prices.
HotCars has scoured the used market to bring you a curated list of 12 sports cars that deliver a premium aesthetic without the exorbitant cost. Our selection process focused on vehicles that retain a luxurious appeal while being available at budget-friendly prices today. We’ve utilized manufacturer specifications and reputable valuation resources like Hagerty and Kelley Blue Book to ensure accuracy in our assessments.
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12 BMW Z4 2.5i (2003)
Used Price: $6,915
Specs
| Engine | 2.5-liter inline 6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Power | 189 hp |
| Torque | 181 lb-ft |
| 0-60 | 6.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 146 mph |
Source: BMW
The BMW E85 Z4, initially met with mixed reactions for its bold “flame-surfacing” design by Chris Bangle, has aged remarkably well. What was once considered controversial is now appreciated for its unique and forward-thinking aesthetic, especially in contrast to BMW’s more recent, larger grille designs.
Time and depreciation have worked in favor of budget-conscious sports car enthusiasts. A 2003 BMW Z4 2.5i can be found for under $7,000, making it an exceptional value in the sports car market. While the 2.5i is the base model and doesn’t boast the more powerful 3.0-liter inline-6, it still delivers satisfying performance. The smooth curves, sloping roofline, and distinctive styling of the Chris Bangle era ensure the Z4 remains a standout on the road even today, offering an affordable entry point into BMW sports car ownership with a design that looks far more premium than its price suggests.
11 Mercedes SLK350 (2005)
Used Price: $7,140
Specs
| Engine | 3.5-liter V6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, 7-speed automatic |
| Power | 268 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft |
| 0-62 | 5.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph |
Source: Mercedes-Benz
The Mercedes-Benz SLK is a frequently overlooked gem in the sports car world. Its discontinuation went largely unnoticed, which is a shame considering its consistent premium feel and aggressive, SLR McLaren-esque front styling that flows into a refined body. The high-performance SLK55 AMG variant was a serious contender against rivals like the Porsche Boxster S, offering a thrilling V8 soundtrack that the Porsche couldn’t match. This inherent premium quality and performance remain even when purchasing a used model.
With the earliest R171 generation SLKs now over 20 years old, depreciation has significantly reduced prices. A well-maintained 2005 SLK350 can be acquired for just over $7,000. While it may not match the raw power of the SLK55 AMG, the SLK350 still provides ample performance and retains the luxurious look and feel of a high-end convertible, all at a bargain price. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking an Affordable Sports Car with a touch of Mercedes-Benz prestige.
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10 Mercedes-Benz SL500 (2003)
Used Price: $9,001
Specs
| Engine | 5.0-liter V8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Power | 302 hp |
| Torque | 339 lb-ft |
| 0-62 | 6.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (limited) |
Source: Mercedes-Benz
The R230 generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL, while not always as revered as other generations, still exudes an aura of wealth and sophistication. Emerging during a challenging period for Mercedes-Benz in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the R230 SL is known for some quality and reliability concerns. However, its appearance remained undeniably luxurious, a perception that persists even two decades later. Owning an R230 SL, even today, projects an image of success and affluence.
This prestigious image is now attainable at remarkably low prices. A 2003 SL500 can be found for around $9,000, offering incredible value. While it may not possess the sheer extravagance of the V12-powered SL600 or the supercharged ferocity of the SL55 AMG, the SL500 is more than sufficient for most drivers. It boasts a potent V8 engine, ample performance, and a distinctly plush interior, making it an affordable way to experience the luxury and presence of a Mercedes-Benz SL.
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9 Jaguar XK (2007)
Used Price: $12,952
Specs
| Engine | 4.2-liter V8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Power | 296 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft |
| 0-62 | 5.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (limited) |
Source: Jaguar
The Jaguar XK often doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves in the sports car realm. Positioned more as a refined grand tourer than an outright sports car, the XK excels at comfortable long-distance cruising while still possessing capable handling on winding roads and a robust V8 engine. Crucially for this list, the Jaguar XK embodies the look of an expensive, premium vehicle from a respected manufacturer.
Acquiring one of these sophisticated British sports cars from the 2000s is surprisingly affordable today. A 2007 XK Coupe in good condition can be found for under $13,000. Considering its classy design and powerful V8 engine, the Jaguar XK represents exceptional value, offering a taste of British luxury and performance at a fraction of its original price.
8 Cadillac XLR (2004)
Used Price: $15,509
Specs
| Engine | 4.6-liter V8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed automatic |
| Power | 320 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft |
| 0-60 | 5.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph |
Source: Cadillac
The Cadillac XLR, a somewhat unusual entry on this list, had a short production run as a single-generation model and has become somewhat forgotten over time. Often perceived as simply a badge-engineered version of the C6 Chevrolet Corvette, this isn’t entirely accurate. While sharing the same platform, the XLR featured distinct bodywork, interior, engine tuning, and suspension settings, setting it apart from its Chevrolet sibling.
However, the Cadillac badge itself carries an inherent association with luxury and prestige. The XLR undeniably projects a more upscale image than the Corvette it’s based on. Its somewhat underappreciated status has resulted in used prices lower than comparable C6 Corvettes. An early base model XLR can be found for around $15,500, several thousand dollars less than a similar Corvette. The XLR offers a unique blend of American V8 power and Cadillac luxury, often prompting intrigued glances from onlookers who may overestimate its price, making it a stealthy way to own an “expensive-looking” sports car for less.
7 Porsche Boxster (2005)
Used Price: $16,822
Specs
| Engine | 2.7-liter 6-cylinder boxer |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic |
| Power | 237 hp |
| Torque | 199 lb-ft |
| 0-62 | 6.2 seconds (manual), 7.1 seconds (automatic) |
| Top Speed | 159 mph (manual), 155 mph (automatic) |
Source: Porsche
The Porsche Boxster, like its Cayman sibling, is consistently recognized as a benchmark in the realm of smaller, premium sports cars. It delivers both the look and feel of a high-quality sports car, with even the base model offering impressive performance. The Boxster shares the Cayman’s popularity as one of Porsche’s most successful models, renowned for its balanced handling and engaging driving dynamics.
Thanks to depreciation, the Boxster has become considerably more accessible in the used market. An early 987 generation Boxster in good condition can be acquired for just under $17,000. While this price point typically limits you to the base model, it still provides an exceptional sports car experience that belies its affordable price tag. The Porsche badge and iconic styling alone contribute to the perception of a much more expensive vehicle.
6 Lotus Esprit (1988)
Used Price: $19,100
Specs
| Engine | 2.2-liter turbocharged inline 4 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Power | 172 hp |
| Torque | 163 lb-ft |
| 0-62 | 6.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 138 mph |
Source: Lotus
The Lotus Esprit stands out as a unique choice on this list. Lotus, while respected for its engineering prowess, doesn’t possess the same mainstream brand recognition as Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, or Porsche. Lotus is more associated with lightweight, track-focused machines than outright luxury. The Esprit, however, breaks this mold. Positioned at the premium end of the sports car market, it offered more comfort and refinement than models like the Elise or Exige. Its distinctive wedge-shaped design, initially conceived by Giugiaro and later refined by Peter Stevens, has aged gracefully, often drawing comparisons to Lamborghini icons like the Countach or Diablo.
While Esprits are gaining traction as sought-after classics, the X180 generation, the first to feature Peter Stevens’ updated design, remains relatively affordable. Often overshadowed by the later V8-powered S4 generation, the X180 offers a compelling value proposition. A 1988 Esprit X180 in good condition can be found for just over $19,000, a price that’s unlikely to decrease. This represents a fantastic opportunity to own a genuine classic sports car with timeless styling that projects an image of far greater expense.
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5 Maserati GranTurismo (2008)
Used Price: $19,451
Specs
| Engine | 4.2-liter V8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Power | 399 hp |
| Torque | 339 lb-ft |
| 0-62 | 5.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 177 mph |
Source: Maserati
The Maserati GranTurismo is another somewhat unconventional sports car choice. Often overlooked in favor of more mainstream or overtly prestigious brands, the GranTurismo consistently receives praise for its stunning aesthetics. Its distinctive, muscular lines and Italian flair create an immediate impression of speed, aggression, and high cost.
Exploring the used market reveals the Maserati GranTurismo to be surprisingly affordable. A 2008 model can be found for under $20,000. Considering its original price and impressive performance capabilities, this represents an incredible bargain. Furthermore, the GranTurismo boasts a glorious V8 engine note, adding to its desirability as an affordable sports car that looks and sounds far more expensive than it is.
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4 Chevrolet Corvette C6 (2006)
Used Price: $19,684
Specs
| Engine | 6.0-liter V8 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic |
| Power | 400 hp |
| Torque | 400 lb-ft |
| 0-62 | 4.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | 186 mph |
Source: Chevrolet
The Chevrolet Corvette is arguably the quintessential American sports car. In continuous production since the 1950s, the Corvette has consistently evolved while staying true to its core identity as a powerful and accessible American sports car. The C6 generation is widely regarded as one of the best iterations, and thanks to depreciation, it offers exceptional value for money in the used market.
A base model C6 Corvette from 2006 can be purchased for just under $20,000 in good condition. While higher-performance variants like the Z06 or ZR1 remain more expensive, the base model is more than capable, delivering impressive performance and the iconic Corvette styling. The C6 Corvette projects the image of a premium sports car while remaining surprisingly affordable, making it a top choice for value-conscious enthusiasts.
3 Porsche Cayman (2006)
Used Price: $20,048
Specs
| Engine | 2.7-liter 6-cylinder boxer |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Power | 242 hp |
| Torque | 201 lb-ft |
| 0-60 | 5.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 162 mph |
Source: Porsche
When considering smaller, premium sports cars, the Porsche Cayman is consistently cited as the benchmark. Praised for its exceptional handling, refined feel, and driver-focused experience, the Cayman is a favorite among enthusiasts and one of Porsche’s most successful models. Now that the earliest examples are approaching two decades old, depreciation has made the Cayman remarkably affordable.
A 2006 base model Cayman in good condition can be found for around $20,000. While this budget may not stretch to the more powerful “S” variant, the base Cayman still provides a truly excellent sports car experience. Its Porsche pedigree and sophisticated design contribute to the perception of a much more expensive vehicle, offering an attainable entry point into Porsche ownership with a sports car that looks and feels genuinely premium.
2 Jaguar F-Type S V6 (2014)
Used Price: $23,112
Specs
| Engine | 3.0-liter supercharged V6 |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, 8-speed automatic |
| Power | 335 hp |
| Torque | 332 lb-ft |
| 0-60 | 5.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 161 mph |
Source: Jaguar
From its debut in 2013 until its recent discontinuation in 2024, the Jaguar F-Type has been celebrated as one of the premier sports cars on the market. Tasked with replacing the long-serving XK, Jaguar successfully delivered a completely new car with a more focused sports car character. The F-Type quickly surpassed its predecessor in popularity, becoming a modern icon.
While the supercharged V8 F-Type models represent the pinnacle of performance, the supercharged V6 variant, available from launch, offers more than sufficient power for most driving scenarios. The V6 F-Type is also significantly more accessible on the used market. An early V6 S model can be found for just over $23,000. This price point is remarkable for a genuine sports car boasting stunning design, impressive performance, and the prestigious Jaguar badge. The F-Type remains a visually striking and highly desirable affordable sports car.
1 Toyota GR86 (2022)
Used Price: $25,428
Specs
| Engine | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder boxer |
|---|---|
| Transmission | 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic |
| Power | 234 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft |
| 0-60 | 6.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 140 mph |
Source: Toyota
For a touch of modernity, we include a newer model that commands attention despite its sub-$30,000 MSRP. The Toyota GR86 (and its Subaru BRZ twin) stands out as one of the best-looking affordable sports cars currently available. Building upon the success of its Toyota GT86/Scion FR-S predecessor, the GR86 has garnered global acclaim, praised for its improvements in areas where the previous model was perceived to be lacking. The GR86’s continued sales success, even amidst a general decline in sports car sales, speaks volumes about its appeal. Its striking design often leads those unfamiliar with its price point to believe it’s a much more expensive vehicle.
While reasonably priced even new, the GR86 becomes an even more compelling value proposition in the used market. A 2022 GR86 in good condition can be found for just over $25,000. While positioned at the higher end of this list in terms of price, the GR86 is an exceptional choice for those seeking a newer, more contemporary sports car experience. Its premium aesthetics will likely impress onlookers, regardless of brand snobbery, solidifying its position as the top affordable sports car that looks far more expensive than its actual cost.
Sources: Hagerty.com, KBB
