Cheap doesn't have to be slow. When you buy a used car, you skip out on paying for dealership fees and depreciation, which is why most of them cost a fraction of their original price. This is awesome for gearheads looking to stretch a budget, as it means many cool performance cars drop to attainable values incredibly quickly.

After reaching astronomical levels back in 2021, used car prices have seen a downward trend in 2023. Now may be a great time to find an affordable pre-owned performance car on the used car market. However, before driving one home, you'll need to make sure which models can really deliver the performance level that you are looking for.

UPDATE: 2023/11/03 06:20 EST BY RON FP

Using vehicle specifications, performance, and pricing data sourced from manufacturer websites, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, Consumer Reports, and Zero To 60 Times, we've updated this list. A starting average used price of $22,000 and below as well as being to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in under 6 seconds were factored into model selections.

20 2009 Nissan 350Z / Fairlady Z (Z33)

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.1 Seconds

Ever since the 1960s, Nissan has been offering two popular front-engine sports car nameplates - the GT-R and the Z-car lines. The Z33, which Nissan branded as the Fairlady Z in Japan and the 350Z in the North American market - was Nissan's first Z-car model for the 21st century. The Nissan 350 Z went entered the market as a 2003 model, and it stayed in production until 2009. During its debut, the Nissan 350Z derived 287 hp and 274 lb-ft of twist from its naturally-aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine. By the end of its production run, the Nissan 350 Z's power output was uprated to 306 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque. This output was enough for the rear-wheel-drive Nissan 350Z to sprint from 0 to 60 MPH in 5.1 seconds.

Pricing

19 2015 Lexus GS

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.5 Seconds

Although the Lexus GS has been disccontinued since the end of 2020, the Lexus GS is still widely recognized as the sporty counterpart of the more family-friendly Lexus ES luxury midsize sedan. With a 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6 engine (306 hp, 277 lb-ft) and a rear-wheel-drive configuration, the base Lexus GS 350 can dash from 0 to 60 MPH in 5.5 seconds.

The Lexus GS 450h F-Sport, in turn, combines a 3.5-liter Atkinson cycle V6 and a permanent magnet electric motor to achieve a maximum output of 341 hp and 369 lb-ft of twist. This hybrid-powered Lexus GS 4-door sedan can go from 0 to 60 MPH in 5.6 to 5.7 seconds while still delivering an amazing combined fuel economy rating of 31 MPG.

Pricing

18 2010 BMW M6 E63

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 4.5 Seconds

Those who believe that gearheads should avoid the E63 BMW M6 are pretty well justified in their stance. When something does go wrong - and the chances are, it will - you’re in for a seriously big bill. But if you can keep your example maintained and serviced ahead of the due intervals, you’d be in possession of a V10 screamer that is worth every penny that you’d pay for it.

Pricing

For as low as $19,000, you could own a BMW M6 from the late 2000s, and while maintenance will inevitably cost you a fair amount each year, it will be a worthwhile investment if you can keep it out of trouble.

17 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 4.5 Seconds

With the price of the fifth to eighth-generation Lancer Evolutions now sitting above their original MSRP prices, could the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X (released from 2008 to 2015) be the way to go? With a 0-60 mph time of just 4.5 seconds, and enough grip to make your stomach churn, this can be considered a pretty safe bet for a cheap performance car.

Pricing

Two trim levels are available, the cheaper GSR version of which can be found for a smudge over $12,000 in some corners of the internet. For the full-blooded, MR edition, you’ll be looking closer to $20,000 for a really good one.

16 2005 Jaguar XJR

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.0 Seconds

Any list like this surely needs to have a bit of roguishness to it, right? In that regard, few manufacturers do it better than Jaguar. A whole host of its performance sports cars and sedans can be found for well under $20,000, and the XJR is among the best of Jaguar’s models that you may want to consider.

Pricing

Just one trim level is found, the range-topping XJR, which has seen a depreciation of over $60,000 in the 20 years since it was released. That could potentially make it a future classic just lying in wait, as prices for sporty British cars just like it should start to see an appreciation in value as the EV revolution continues to develop.

15 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 4.6 Seconds

The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is one of the most iconic rally cars ever, and it is the darling of many car enthusiasts. It offers many desirable features, including a fairly tight suspension that keeps the car dialed in around corners, whether that's on a track, on the dirt, or on the snow. The car is fast, agile, and easily underestimated, which may work to your advantage in a race. It gets from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, which is much quicker than many modern cars.

Pricing

The cheapest example we found was up for just $12,000, but we’d suggest spending a tad more to ensure it’s in good condition. For a reasonable price, the speed, and capability of Subaru's AWD beast present quite a bargain that's easily attainable for the average car enthusiast. The EJ boxer engine continues to impress us, just watch out for those darn head gaskets!

14 2014 Ford Mustang

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.3 Seconds

The Ford Mustang is yet another cheap used car that can get drivers up to speed quickly, especially those looking for a bit of muscle. Completing the 0-to-60 mph sprint in 5.3 seconds, the Mustang is a solid choice for anyone looking for cheap speed. The RWD coupe has everything that enthusiasts want: the correct drivetrain, a powerful V6 engine, a long hood, an aggressive body, and a slick driving experience at a true bargain. The Mustang is reliable if taken care of, and cheap to service as well, further increasing its appeal.

Pricing

Mustangs from model years 2011-2014 make great purchases today, as Ford gave them a redesign before introducing a new generation in 2015. There are three trim levels to choose from, but while the sought-after Shelby GT500 edition is still at a fairly expensive price point, the mid-range GT is hovering at very tempting prices at present. But given that most modern Mustangs are known for high depreciation, don’t expect this to show up on our list of Ford Mustang models with the best resale value.

13 2012 Lincoln MKS

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.3 Seconds

For those looking for more practicality, look no further than the 2012 Lincoln MKS. This refined U.S. luxury sedan is equal parts comfortable and quick, reaching 60 mph in a respectable 5.3 seconds. While perhaps not the best-looking car on this list, it's one of the more luxurious ones. A BMW M3 may be more appealing, but if you think with your wallet, then the MKS is the obvious choice. However, for those more concerned with speed and less so with luxury and practicality, there are plenty of cars for you ahead.

Pricing

While it may not have the allure of a 2023 Lincoln Corsair compact SUV, the MKS is a fabulous bargain in its own right. Three trim grades are on offer, and all are nicely spaced out between $10,000 and $12,000 on average.

12 2006 Mazdaspeed 6

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.3 Seconds

For around the same price as the MKS, you can buy a 2006 Mazdaspeed 6, which is one of the coolest Japanese sleeper cars ever. The Mazdaspeed 6's practicality, reliability, and available AWD option make it an appealing choice over various competitors, although looks may not be particularly inspiring. However, they're unique and quirky, which appeals to their own set of drivers. The Mazdaspeed 6, which was made by one of the Japanese brands that propagate legendary reliability, will be sitting faithfully in your garage, waiting to go fast for years to come.

Pricing

For around $13,000 you get a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.3 seconds. The sedan is quick, relatively agile, and spacious enough to haul you and four friends down the road at considerable speed. It still represents a bargain for what you get in return.

11 2012 Dodge Charger R/T

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.2 Seconds

When Dodge revived the Charger in the mid-2000s, not everyone was happy. The Dodge Charger had evolved into a four-door sedan, and muscle car purists didn't like that one bit. Thankfully, despite its sedate styling, the modern Charger is all muscle under the hood.

Pricing

Early seventh-gen Chargers are still affordable, and if you get the R/T trim with its 370-hp V8, you'll be able to hit 60 mph in just over five seconds. If you decide to get a more toned-down version, we recommend checking out the best seventh-gen Dodge Charger trims to buy in 2022.

10 2006 Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 4.8 Seconds

Another superb car in the sub-five-second territory is the 2006 Mercedes C55 AMG, a 2nd-generation (W203) C-Class model that gets up to 60 mph in an impressive 4.9 seconds. An old Mercedes with a large and complicated V8 engine isn't going to be the most reliable ride in the world, but at least when it works properly, you'll be having a blast. With the beautiful sound of the aggressive German exhaust combined with the thrill of instant acceleration, the C55 AMG has got to be one of the fastest four-door sedans you can buy for cheap.

Pricing

Powerful Mercedes-AMG sedans from this era are still in high demand, but this particular vehicle is still at a pretty affordable price range, with Kelley Blue Book estimating the price of a used 2005 Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG to be around $13,000.

9 1995 Porsche 968

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 6.0 Seconds

This may be very specific and even a hard-to-find car, but it falls in the category of mid-to-low-level Porsches made between 1985 and 2000. Sometimes these had engineering issues that made them depreciate to the point many could afford them. If you can handle that, these are beautiful mid and rear-engine cars that give you a pure sports car experience with amazing performance and common convertible options.

Pricing

According to Hagerty, a 1992 Porsche 968 base is worth around $18,000, which makes it one of the cheapest Porsches money can buy. For an extra few dollars, you can even get yourself a gorgeous Cabriolet version.

8 2007 Lexus IS 350

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.6 Seconds

The 2007 Lexus IS 350 is a luxury compact sedan that provides the expected reliability, solid design, and practicality that you'd expect from a Lexus, but it's also quite a quick steed. With a 0 to 60 MPH time of 5.6 seconds, the Lexus IS 350 competes with mid-spec Mercedes and BMW compact models. Compared to most similar cars of its time, the 350 wins out nearly every time. Older cars with the Lexus badge have the reputation of being cars for old folks, but this one is anything but. Expect many surprised looks from people who lose to you in races.

Pricing

Available for around $11,000, the IS 350 is a good all-rounder that fulfills just about every need that a driver may have. For that price, it may even be a more tempting proposition than the 2023 Lexus IS 350 F Sport.

7 2010 Audi S5

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 4.8 Seconds

The 2010 Audi S5 gives the Lexus a run for its money, although it may not be quite as practical with only two doors. But with a roaring V8 available with the press of a pedal, you won't mind too much. This powerful engine gets the S5 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. Like many top German luxury sedans, the 2010 Audi S5 will likely be expensive to maintain. Luckily, you'll save money on speeding tickets because the S5 flies under the radar, thanks to its subtle styling. Who knows? This car can actually be a good investment!

Pricing

As a result of that typical German depreciation, the S5 from this era can be had for over $40,000 less than it was originally sold for. At just $14,000, why would you consider anything else? For more information, check out what a 2009 Audi S5 costs today.

6 1998 Mitsubishi 3000GT

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.0 Seconds

The 1998 Mitsubishi 3000GT is perhaps one of the least orthodox rides on this list, but with the unique factor comes appeal. The Mitsubishi 3000GT had AWD, twin turbos, all-wheel steering, and an active suspension system. The 3000GT has what are essentially normal components of some modern sports cars, and is available for just a fraction of the price. While the technology may be old, the 3000GT can give most modern cars a run for their money.

Pricing

The slick Japanese coupe can be had for as little as $15,000, which is a bargain, given that it can get to 60 mph in five seconds flat. If you’re a strong negotiator, you could even grab yourself a solid example for closer to $10,000.

5 2001 Chevrolet Corvette C5

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 4.5 Seconds

The 2001 Chevrolet Corvette, which belongs to the nameplate's 5th generation (C5), is a desirable ride among car enthusiasts, especially U.S. residents. The Corvette has a strong following, and at these prices, anyone can join in. While it is nowhere near as nice as modern Corvettes, the 2001 model has an appeal that outshines the "old man" driver stereotype. Plus, now you can brag to all of your friends that you bought a Corvette, which is certainly an advantage that comes along with this car.

Pricing

The 2001 Corvette is worth around $18,000 according to Hagerty. That isn't too bad, considering you get flashy U.S. style, a powerful V8 engine, and a slick convertible top. This champ gets to 60 mph in a quick 4.5 seconds and eclipses most cars on this list.

4 2011 Chevrolet Camaro SS

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 4.5 Seconds

Back-to-back GM cars? Yes! Chevrolet is great at cheap power for the masses, and the reborn Camaro pony car was no different. Does it have poor visibility? Maybe. Does it get outrun by Mustangs and Challengers? Probably. Does it sound like a bucket of LEGO every time you hit a bump? Absolutely. But this wins out in price and (arguably) mechanical reliability.

Pricing

There are many awesome used Camaro generations, model years, and trims, but we'll go with the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro SS here. The 2010 Camaro comes with a 6.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 dishing out 426 hp, giving it superb performance. Best of all, you can have one for as little as $16,000. Talk about a legal robbery!

3 2011 Nissan 370Z

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 4.6 Seconds

The 2009-2021 Nissan 370Z, which was the last Z Car that used a naturally-aspirated V6, is a perfect blend of reliability and speed. Many of these cars entice you to drive them hard and mash the pedal, but excessive racing may land you with an expensive repair bill. Nissan, however, engineers reliable cars, and the 370Z is no exception. Rear-wheel drive and a tight suspension will keep you dialed in through corners, and a 4.6-second 0 to 60 mph time will keep you speeding right along the road and past your friends in a far newer car for far less.

Pricing

Available for around $18,000, this dynamic coupe is a no-brainer for those looking for affordable Japanese sports cars. The price range can go up to $25,000 for a range-topping Nismo version which is kept in good condition, but even at that price, it’s a fantastic option.

2 2012 Volkswagen Golf R

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 5.5 Seconds

The Golf R also looks great. It looks subtly aggressive and has small features that enthusiasts will immediately recognize. If that isn't enough to sell you on it, the Golf R sprints to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds with the help of AWD, making it equally beneficial on the corners. It may look like a slow car for buying groceries and commuting, but in reality, the VW Golf R is one of the most fun hot hatches on the market.

Pricing

The Volkswagen Golf R is a neat sleeper, and the 2012 model year costs around $13,000, compared to new ones costing around $50,000 or more after the dealership marks it up. The hatchback is practical and has a surprisingly upscale interior.

1 2002 BMW M3 E46

• Acceleration: 0-60 MPH In 4.8 Seconds

Last on our list is the BMW M3 E46 - arguably the best M car ever from the German luxury brand. The M3 is widely regarded as the pinnacle of full-on sports cars, presenting a driving experience that's quick, dynamic, and engaged. A true driver's car, the M3 is something that enthusiasts lust for their whole lives. The E46 is one of the quickest on this list, making the 0 to 60 mph run in a speedy 4.8 seconds. The M3 will likely run you an expensive repair bill should some sort of engine component go wrong, but as with many cars like that on this list, you won't care too much as soon as you get behind the wheel.

Pricing

A Hagerty valuation of just under $23,000 for an E46 may seem expensive compared to some of the cars on this list, but it's a true bargain considering what you're getting. Additionally, prices for the E46 are only going up, so this could be a great investment opportunity.