There will always be cars that just look expensive. That’s especially true when it comes to sports cars. Owning a sports car signals to the world that you’ve achieved a certain level of success. A sports car with sleek lines, a quality feel, and a premium badge only reinforces that perception.
The good news is, you don’t need to spend exorbitant amounts to get a sports car that looks like it cost a fortune. The used car market is full of hidden gems and incredible deals. We’ve explored this market to bring you 12 sports cars that offer a far more premium appearance than their actual price tags suggest.
Our selection process involved HotCars delving into the used market to identify cars that possess a premium aesthetic but are now available at affordable prices. We utilized manufacturer specifications for performance details and consulted Hagerty and Kelley Blue Book’s fair purchase price index for valuations.
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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 E85 BMW Z4 sparked considerable debate when it was unveiled over two decades ago. Initially considered by some as part of BMW’s “ugly duckling” phase, this model may well be having the last laugh. Chris Bangle’s distinctive ‘flame-surfacing’ styling has aged remarkably well, exceeding initial expectations. In fact, there’s a growing appreciation for its design, especially in light of BMW’s more recent and controversial embrace of oversized grilles.
Depreciation has significantly reduced prices for older models, creating incredible bargains. You can find a 2003 2.5i for under $7,000, making it one of the most affordable sports car deals available. While the 2.5i is the base model and doesn’t boast the more potent 3.0-liter inline-6 engine, it still delivers respectable performance. The enduring appeal of Chris Bangle’s design, characterized by its smooth, flowing lines and elegantly sloping roof, ensures it remains a head-turner on the road in 2024.
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 sports car that often slips under the radar. Its discontinuation was met with little fanfare, which is unfortunate because the SLK has consistently projected a premium image and feel. Its front-end styling, reminiscent of the formidable SLR McLaren, flows into a genuinely luxurious body. The high-performance SLK55 AMG variant was a serious contender against rivals like the Porsche Boxster S, boasting a magnificent V8 soundtrack that the Porsche lacked. This aural pleasure remains even when you acquire one on the used market.
Early models of the R171 generation are now over 20 years old. Due to this age, depreciation has worked its magic, making them incredibly affordable. A well-maintained 2005 SLK350 can be found for just over $7,000. While it may not match the exhilaration of the SLK55, the SLK350 still offers solid performance and retains the expensive look and feel of a premium convertible, all at a bargain price.
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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
This generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL doesn’t always receive the same acclaim as its predecessors or successors. Mercedes-Benz experienced a period of challenges in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The R230 SL, notorious for its quality and reliability issues, is reflective of this era. However, even with its flaws, it undeniably projected an image of significant wealth. This perception persists even two decades later. Owning an R230 SL still conveys a sense of accomplishment and affluence. The surprising part is that this feeling is now attainable at remarkably low prices if you know where to look.
A 2003 SL500 can be acquired for around $9,000 if you find a good deal. While it may not possess the ultimate luxury of an SL600 with its magnificent V12 or the raw power of an SL55 AMG with its supercharged V8, it’s more than adequate for most drivers. It’s still equipped with a V8 engine, provides ample performance, and maintains a distinctly plush and premium feel.
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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 doesn’t always receive the recognition it deserves in the sports car arena. More accurately classified as a refined grand tourer than a pure sports car, it’s better suited for comfortable long-distance journeys than aggressive corner carving. However, it’s certainly capable on winding roads and always offered substantial power from its V8 engines. Crucially for this list, it exudes the expensive aura of a premium marque.
Acquiring one of these stunning British sports cars from the 2000s is surprisingly affordable today. A 2007 XK Coupe in good condition can be yours for just under $13,000. Considering its sophisticated and elegant styling coupled with genuine V8 power, it represents exceptional value.
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
Similar to the Lotus Esprit, the Cadillac XLR is a somewhat unconventional inclusion in this list. Its production run was brief, spanning only a single generation. Over time, it has largely faded from public memory. Those who do recall it often dismiss it as a mere rebadged version of the C6 Chevrolet Corvette. While it’s true the XLR shared a platform with the C6 Corvette, it was far from a simple rebadge. The bodywork, interior, engine, and suspension tuning were all significantly different.
Ultimately, it is a Cadillac, and the Cadillac brand has always been associated with a certain level of prestige and affluence. It undeniably projects a more upscale image than the Corvette with which it shares its underpinnings. Paradoxically, its somewhat unloved status translates to a lower price point than a comparable C6 Corvette. An early base model XLR can be found for around $15,500. This represents a considerable saving compared to a Corvette, and you’re likely to attract more intrigued glances from onlookers who may not recognize it, assuming you’ve spent considerably more.
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
Like its coupe sibling, the Cayman, the Porsche Boxster is consistently cited as a benchmark in the realm of smaller, premium sports cars. It looks and feels every bit the premium sports car, and even the base model delivers impressive performance. It also mirrors the Cayman’s success as one of Porsche’s most popular models.
Thanks to depreciation, the Boxster has become considerably more accessible. An early example of the 987 generation in good condition can be acquired for just under $17,000. Similar to the Cayman at this price point, you’ll likely be looking at a base model. However, this still provides you with an exceptional sports car that will undoubtedly lead people to believe you invested significantly more than you actually did.
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 is a unique outlier on this list. Lotus doesn’t possess the same broad brand recognition as Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, or Porsche, and is more commonly associated with minimalist, hardcore performance machines rather than luxury. The Esprit is an exception. It was positioned at the premium end of the sports car spectrum, offering more comfort and refinement than models like the Elise or Exige. Its striking wedge-shaped design, initially conceived by Giugiaro and later refined by Peter Stevens, has aged gracefully. It bears a resemblance to Lamborghini icons like the Countach or Diablo, a testament to its visual impact.
Esprits are gaining traction as sought-after classics, but you can still find examples of the X180 generation at attractive prices. This generation marked the debut of Peter Stevens’ updated design. The later S4 generation often overshadows it, likely due to the absence of a V8 option in the X180. This could explain why X180 prices remain relatively accessible. A 1988 Esprit in good condition can be yours for just over $19,000, and its value is unlikely to decrease. This is a compelling price for a genuine classic sports car with timeless aesthetics that will lead onlookers to believe you paid considerably more.
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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 unusual choice in the sports car world. It’s frequently overlooked in favor of competitors with similar pricing or more prestigious badges. However, it’s consistently lauded for its stunning design. Its distinctive, muscular lines have always ensured it stands out. It genuinely looks like a fast, powerful, and expensive car.
Exploring the used market reveals the Maserati GranTurismo to be surprisingly affordable. A 2008 model can be acquired for under $20,000. Considering its original price and performance capabilities, this represents an absolute bargain. And let’s not forget the glorious sound of its V8 engine.
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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
There’s arguably no sports car more quintessentially American than the Chevrolet Corvette. It has existed in various iterations since the 1950s, consistently evolving while staying true to its core identity as a genuine American sports car. The C6 generation is widely regarded as one of the best, and thanks to depreciation, it offers exceptional value for money.
A base model C6 from 2006 in good condition will cost you just under $20,000 on the used market. While securing a Z06 or ZR1 at a bargain price might be wishful thinking, the base model is more than sufficient. It still presents as an expensive, premium vehicle and delivers impressive performance.
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 frequently cited as the gold standard. It’s a perennial favorite, praised for its exceptional handling and premium feel. It also stands as one of Porsche’s most successful models. Now that the earliest examples are approaching two decades old, depreciation has made them surprisingly affordable.
A 2006 base model Cayman in good condition can be found for around $20,000. At this price point, you won’t be acquiring the enhanced power and features of the ‘S’ variant. However, you’ll still own a truly outstanding sports car that looks and feels significantly more expensive than its attainable price suggests.
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 available. Replacing the aging XK with a completely redesigned and repositioned model seemed a daunting challenge. However, Jaguar executed it masterfully, and the F-Type has demonstrably surpassed its predecessor in popularity.
While the supercharged V8 engine represents the pinnacle of the F-Type range, many initially considered the supercharged V6 to offer ample performance for most driving scenarios. The V6 is also considerably more accessible on the used market than its V8 counterpart. An early V6 ‘S’ model can be found for just over $23,000. This is a compelling price for a genuine sports car boasting striking aesthetics, excellent performance, and the prestigious Jaguar badge.
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 the sake of variety, we’ve included a more recent model – one that commands attention despite its sub-$30,000 MSRP. When it comes to affordable sports cars with visual appeal, few surpass the Toyota GR86 (or its Subaru BRZ twin). Building upon the foundation laid by its Toyota GT86/Scion FR-S predecessor, the GR86 has garnered global acclaim and is praised for addressing perceived shortcomings of the earlier model. The fact that the GR86 continues to outsell its Japanese rivals, even amidst a general decline in sports car sales, speaks volumes about its desirability. It also possesses undeniable visual appeal. Many individuals less familiar with cars might assume you paid significantly more for your GR86 than its actual price.
While already reasonably priced as a new car, the GR86 becomes an even more compelling proposition in the used market. A 2022 model in good condition can be acquired for just over $25,000. While this places it at the higher end of the cars on this list, it remains an exceptional choice if you prioritize a newer and more contemporary feel. Its premium aesthetics will also lead people to believe it’s a far more expensive car than it is, unless they are particularly brand-conscious!
Sources: Hagerty.com, KBB
