For many авто enthusiasts, the ultimate dream is owning a car that delivers exhilarating speed. The kind of adrenaline rush that comes from tearing down a quarter-mile track in a blink of an eye, or hitting 60 mph faster than you can say “performance.” While hypercars and top-tier sports cars from brands like Tesla and Porsche offer blistering acceleration, their price tags remain firmly in the realm of fantasy for most. Fortunately, the dream of owning a cheap fast car is far from dead.
There’s a vibrant market of affordable vehicles that pack a surprising punch. These aren’t just economy cars; they’re machines with genuine performance DNA, often available for under $20,000 in the used market. Yes, some might require a little TLC and restoration, but that’s part of the appeal. The journey of bringing a diamond in the rough back to its former glory is a rewarding experience in itself. Imagine the satisfaction of owning a fast, powerful, and budget-friendly car that you’ve personally invested in.
Let’s dive into a list of 30 Cheap Fast Cars that can ignite your passion for driving without emptying your wallet. Drawing on data from reputable sources like Hagerty, Kelley Blue Book, J.D. Power, CarGurus, and CarEdge, we’ve compiled a selection of genuinely quick vehicles that are still attainable for the budget-conscious enthusiast.
30 Dodge Neon SRT4
Starting Used Price: $4,171
Despite the Dodge Neon’s reputation as a basic economy car, the SRT4 variant is a different beast altogether. Born from Chrysler’s in-house tuning division, Performance Vehicle Operations (PVO), the Neon SRT4 is a turbocharged pocket rocket.
Under the hood, a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four engine churns out 215 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque. However, dyno tests have revealed these figures to be conservative, with some models pushing closer to 255-270 horsepower at the crank. This translates to a 0-60 mph sprint in just 5.6 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 14.1 seconds, outperforming even the 2001 Ford Mustang in its acceleration. The “Neon” stigma might be keeping prices down, making the SRT4 a true bargain for speed enthusiasts looking for cheap fast cars.
Pricing For A 2003 Dodge Neon SRT4
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $4,171 |
| Good | $4,747 |
| Excellent | $5,356 |
| Mint | $5,657 |
29 E39 BMW 540i
Starting Used Price: $4,279
The BMW E39 5 Series is lauded by many as the pinnacle of the 5 Series lineage. Within this generation, the 540i stands out as a performance gem disguised as a luxury sedan. While not officially an M5, it shares much of the M5’s DNA, offering a thrilling driving experience at a fraction of the price.
Power comes from a 4.4-liter V-8 engine producing 282 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Again, dyno tests suggest BMW underrated this engine, with actual output closer to 300 horsepower. If you’re lucky enough to find a manual transmission version, the 540i can hit 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and conquer the quarter-mile in around 14.0 seconds. With used prices starting surprisingly low, the E39 540i is an excellent entry point into cheap fast cars with European refinement.
Pricing For A 2003 E39 BMW 540i
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $4,279 |
| Good | $4,680 |
| Excellent | $4,893 |
| Mint | $5,226 |
28 Lexus LS400
Starting Used Price: $4,612
The Lexus LS series has long been synonymous with luxury and reliability. While primarily marketed as a full-size luxury sedan, the second-generation LS400 possesses a surprising turn of speed.
Its 1UZ-FE V8 engine delivers 260 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. This translates to a 0-60 mph time of under seven seconds and a quarter-mile time of around 15.2 seconds. While not a sports car in the traditional sense, the LS400 offers a comfortable and surprisingly quick ride. Given its Lexus pedigree and robust V8, finding a well-maintained LS400 for under $10,000 makes it a compelling option for those seeking cheap fast cars with a touch of luxury.
Pricing For 1997 Lexus LS400
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $4,612 |
| Good | $5,033 |
| Excellent | $5,313 |
| Mint | $5,631 |
27 2010 Ford Taurus SHO
Starting Used Price: $4,999
The Ford Taurus, a sedan that played a crucial role in Ford’s resurgence in the 1980s, might not be the first car that comes to mind when thinking about performance. However, the SHO (Super High Output) version of the Taurus is a different story.
The 2010 Taurus SHO is equipped with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, producing a healthy 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. This power allows the large sedan to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 5.2 seconds. While the top speed is electronically limited to 133 mph, the SHO offers impressive straight-line performance and all-wheel drive for enhanced handling. The 2010 Taurus SHO is a sleeper sedan that delivers surprising speed at a cheap fast cars price point.
Pricing For A 2010 Ford Taurus SHO (KBB)
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $4,999 |
| Good | $7,995 |
| Excellent | $9,767 |
| Mint | $10,900 |
26 Jaguar XJR
Starting Used Price: $5,011
The Jaguar XJ, particularly the X308 generation, might have had its share of engine reliability issues, but the XJR variant still offers a compelling blend of luxury and performance, especially at today’s used prices.
The supercharged V-8 engine in the XJR, even with age and potential wear, was originally capable of producing 370 horsepower and 387 pound-feet of torque. This propelled the XJR from 0-60 mph in a brisk 5.6 seconds, with a top speed limited to 155 mph. While maintenance might be a consideration, the XJR X308 provides a taste of classic British luxury and performance for those seeking cheap fast cars with a distinctive character.
Pricing For A 2003 Jaguar XJR
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,011 |
| Good | $5,655 |
| Excellent | $6,085 |
| Mint | $6,572 |
25 BMW 330i
Starting Used Price: $5,114
Prior to 2007, the BMW 3 Series was facing competition from rivals embracing turbocharged engines. BMW finally answered with the 2007 model year, incorporating a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six into the 330i.
This turbocharged engine boosted output to 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, a significant increase over previous naturally aspirated versions. Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, the 330i could achieve 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds. The 2006 BMW 330i, while not turbocharged, still offers a potent naturally aspirated inline-six and BMW’s renowned handling dynamics, making it a rewarding cheap fast cars option.
Pricing For A 2006 BMW 330i
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,114 |
| Good | $5,604 |
| Excellent | $5,933 |
| Mint | $6,235 |
24 2005 Audi TT 3.2 Quattro
Starting Used Price: $5,400
The Audi TT, with its distinctive styling and capable performance, captured attention worldwide. The TT 3.2 Quattro, the most powerful TT of its time, features a 250-horsepower 3.2-liter V-6 engine, a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), and Quattro all-wheel drive.
While not the absolute quickest in terms of 0-60 mph time (around 6.4 seconds), the TT 3.2 Quattro delivers a balanced and engaging driving experience. Its all-wheel drive system provides excellent grip, and its unique design ensures it still turns heads today. Finding a well-maintained 2005 TT 3.2 Quattro for under $9,000 makes it an appealing choice for those seeking cheap fast cars with style and substance.
Pricing For A 2005 Audi TT 3.2 Quattro (Hagerty)
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,400 |
| Good | $9,300 |
| Excellent | $21,100 |
| Mint | $31,400 |
23 Infinity G35 Coupe
Starting Used Price: $6,674
Anything related to the Nissan 350Z is bound to be quick, and the Infiniti G35 Coupe is no exception. Sharing its platform with the 350Z, the G35 Coupe offers a blend of performance and luxury.
Its 3.5-liter V-6 engine produces up to 302 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds and a quarter-mile time under 14 seconds. The G35 Coupe offers a refined driving experience while still delivering impressive speed. Its slightly less overt sports car image compared to the 350Z can make it a more affordable entry into cheap fast cars.
Pricing For A 2007 Infinity G35 Coupe
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,674 |
| Good | $7,280 |
| Excellent | $7,624 |
| Mint | $8,094 |
22 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Starting Price Used: $6,950
Hyundai’s first foray into the realm of proper sports cars came with the Genesis Coupe in 2010. Offering a rear-wheel-drive platform and a choice of engines, it provided a compelling alternative to established players.
Engine options included a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a naturally aspirated V-6. While some examples might suffer from maintenance neglect, the Genesis Coupe offers a balanced chassis and surprising spaciousness for a two-door coupe. 0-60 mph times range from 6.9 to 4.8 seconds depending on the engine and trim. The Hyundai Genesis Coupe represents a great value proposition in the cheap fast cars segment.
Pricing For A 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,950 |
| Good | $12,467 |
| Excellent | $16,467 |
| Mint | $26,999 |
21 Lexus SC430
Starting Price Used: $6,999
Lexus aimed to rival Mercedes-Benz with its luxury offerings, and the SC430 was their answer to the Mercedes SL500. This two-seater convertible grand tourer prioritizes comfort and cruising over outright track performance.
Powered by a torquey V-8 engine (3UZ-FE), the SC430 delivers smooth and effortless power. While not designed for aggressive corner carving, it offers a refined and enjoyable driving experience. Despite past criticisms, the SC430 is well-built and reliable, making it a comfortable and surprisingly capable option among cheap fast cars convertibles.
Pricing For A 2001 Lexus SC430
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $6,999 |
| Good | $9,703 |
| Excellent | $15,692 |
| Mint | $23,000 |
20 Hyundai Genesis
Starting Price Used: $7,188
Before the Genesis brand became its own entity, Hyundai used the Genesis name for a luxury sedan aimed at the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. The 2009 Hyundai Genesis sedan offered luxury features and performance at a competitive price.
Engine options included a 3.8-liter V-6 and a more powerful V-8, with the V8 producing between 375 and 428 horsepower depending on the year. The Genesis sedan is known for its reliability and comfortable ride. It’s a great option for those seeking a cheap fast car with sedan practicality and a touch of luxury.
Pricing For A 2009 Hyundai Genesis Sedan
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $5,495 |
| Good | $6,995 |
| Excellent | $8,100 |
| Mint | $10,052 |
19 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG
Starting Used Price: $8,332
The Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG is a performance sedan that often flies under the radar. While any AMG-badged Mercedes is desirable, this generation hasn’t garnered the same level of attention as some others, which translates to better value for buyers.
Under the hood lies a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 producing a formidable 469 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. This power allows the E55 AMG to conquer the quarter-mile in 12.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph. For a family-friendly sedan with supercar-rivaling performance, the E55 AMG is a steal in the cheap fast cars market.
Pricing For A 2009 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $8,332 |
| Good | $9,024 |
| Excellent | $9,408 |
| Mint | $9,992 |
18 BMW 645Ci/650Ci
Starting Price Used: $8,379
BMW’s Chris Bangle-era designs are aging surprisingly well, and the E63/E64 6 Series is a prime example. While V-8 BMWs can come with potential maintenance concerns, the 645Ci and 650Ci offer grand touring performance and style.
The 645Ci is powered by a 4.4-liter V-8, while the 650Ci features a larger 4.8-liter V-8, generally considered more reliable and powerful. A manual transmission option is available, although the automatic is well-suited to the car’s GT nature. The manual-equipped 650Ci coupe can reach 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. For a stylish and fast grand tourer, the BMW 6 Series represents a compelling value in the cheap fast cars category.
Pricing For A 2005 BMW 645Ci/650Ci
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $8,379 |
| Good | $14,262 |
| Excellent | $16,995 |
| Mint | $41,698 |
17 Audi S8 D3
Starting Used Price: $8,963
Despite its hefty weight, the Audi S8 D3 delivers impressive acceleration thanks to its Lamborghini-derived V-10 engine. This luxury sedan is a true sleeper, blending understated elegance with serious performance.
The 5.2-liter V-10 engine produces 444 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque, launching the S8 D3 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds. Quattro all-wheel drive ensures excellent traction. While maintenance can be more complex due to its V-10 engine, finding an S8 D3 for under $9,000 makes it one of the most surprisingly cheap fast cars available.
Pricing For A 2007 Audi S8 D3
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $8,963 |
| Good | $9,831 |
| Excellent | $10,410 |
| Mint | $11,086 |
16 Volvo V70 R
Starting Used Price: $8,889
A Volvo station wagon on a list of fast cars? Believe it. The Volvo V70 R is an unexpected performance gem, combining practicality with surprising speed.
Beneath its unassuming wagon body lies a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While it might seem modest, this engine delivers enough power for a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. The V70 R offers a unique blend of practicality, safety, and performance, making it a distinctive choice among cheap fast cars.
Pricing For A 2007 Volvo V70 R
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $8,889 |
| Good | $9,665 |
| Excellent | $10,182 |
| Mint | $10,786 |
15 2004 Pontiac GTO
Starting Used Price: $10,100
The Pontiac GTO nameplate is legendary in the muscle car world. The 2004 GTO, while not as visually striking as some of its predecessors, delivers on the performance front.
A 5.7-liter V-8 engine producing 350 horsepower sends power to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission. The GTO offers a classic muscle car experience with strong V-8 power and capable handling. While its styling might be understated for some, its performance and iconic name make the 2004 Pontiac GTO a desirable cheap fast cars option.
Pricing For A 2004 Pontiac GTO (Hagerty)
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $10,100 |
| Good | $16,900 |
| Excellent | $24,600 |
| Mint | $33,400 |
14 Nissan 350Z
Starting Used Price: $10,100
The Nissan Z car lineage has a long history of delivering sports car thrills, and the 350Z continues that tradition. This two-seater sports coupe offers engaging performance and iconic styling.
The 350Z’s VQ35HR 3.5-liter V-6 engine produces 306 horsepower and 268 pound-feet of torque. This allows for a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph. The Nissan 350Z is a pure sports car experience that remains attainable in the cheap fast cars market.
Pricing For 2008 Nissan 350Z
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $10,100 |
| Good | $16,900 |
| Excellent | $30,000 |
| Mint | $43,300 |
13 Mercedes-Benz S600
Starting Used Price: $10,676
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class represents the pinnacle of luxury and performance in the Mercedes lineup. The S600, with its V-12 engine, takes that to another level.
Under the hood, a V-12 engine delivers over 500 horsepower, providing effortless acceleration and a luxurious driving experience. Despite its size and luxury focus, the S600 can achieve 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 13.3 seconds. The Mercedes-Benz S600 offers V-12 power and opulent luxury in the cheap fast cars sedan segment.
Pricing For A 2007 Mercedes-Benz S600
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $10,676 |
| Good | $11,737 |
| Excellent | $12,445 |
| Mint | $13,272 |
12 Volkswagen Golf GTI
Starting Used Price: $10,800
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a hot hatch icon, known for its blend of practicality and sporty performance. Throughout its generations, the GTI has consistently delivered fun-to-drive dynamics.
While the article mentions a surprising 3.3 second 0-60 mph time for a 2013 GTI (likely an error, as official times are closer to 5-6 seconds), the Golf GTI is undeniably quick and agile. Earlier generations, like the MK2, offer a more raw and analog driving experience. The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a versatile and rewarding option for those seeking cheap fast cars in a hatchback form factor.
Pricing For A 1989 Volkswagen GTI
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $10,800 |
| Good | $21,100 |
| Excellent | $30,800 |
| Mint | $41,900 |
11 2006 Ford Mustang GT
Starting Used Price: $11,000
The Ford Mustang is an enduring symbol of American muscle and performance. The 2006 Mustang GT brought back classic Mustang styling with modern performance.
Powered by a 4.6-liter V-8 engine, the 2006 Mustang GT delivers a classic V-8 rumble and capable performance. With a 0-60 mph time of just over five seconds, the Mustang GT offers accessible muscle car thrills. The Ford Mustang GT remains a popular and attainable choice in the cheap fast cars muscle car segment.
Pricing For A 2006 Ford Mustang GT (Hagerty)
| Current Condition | Market Price |
|---|---|
| Fair | $11,000 |
| Good | $14,500 |
| Excellent | $26,300 |
| Mint | $33,800 |
These are just the top 11 from our list of 30 cheap fast cars. Exploring the used market opens up a world of possibilities for enthusiasts seeking performance without breaking the bank. From sporty coupes to luxury sedans and even a wagon, there’s a cheap fast car out there to suit almost every taste and budget. Remember to research specific models, check for maintenance history, and enjoy the thrill of driving a fast car without the premium price tag.
