Although they are quite expensive, luxury cars are built to offer a comfortable and high-performance ride compared to the everyday economy car. And while some of these ultra-expensive luxury cars have their cheap alternatives, most of them can only be owned by buyers from society's more affluent upper crust. The only option of owning one of them is by waiting until they're old enough to cost a few thousand dollars. The used car market can drastically lower the cost of entering a luxury vehicle. It offers a wide selection of excellent luxury rides that can now be had for a fraction of the original manufacturer's suggested retail price.
Updated May 2022: If you dream of owning a luxury car, you'll be happy to know that we've updated this list with some of the most affordable old luxury cars on the market in 2022.
Owning a top European luxury supercar may seem like an unachievable dream, but diving into the used market can be surprising. Plenty of ultra-luxury automobiles are within reach of the ordinary man. One thing that doesn't change, though, is that if it's a gas-guzzling V8-powered luxury wagon will consume fuel at volumes even if it's cheap to acquire. That said, dive in for some of the best old luxury models on the used car market anyone can afford in 2022.
28 1989 Rolls-Royce Silver Spur - $19,165
This is one of those cheap cars that'll make anyone look filthy rich—owning a Rolls-Royce, no matter which model year, is a dream come true for many motorists. The Silver Spur was the longer wheelbase version of the Silver Spirit, an already lengthy full-size luxury sedan. Measuring 4 inches long, the Spur’s 125-inch wheelbase provided ample space for the backseat passengers.
The second-generation, dubbed Mark II, saw just under 3,000 units produced and saw fine-tuning to the suspension with an automatic ride control system fitted into the chassis. ABS brakes and fuel injection were also introduced as standard features.
27 2009 BMW 7-Series - $14,117
The BMW 7-Series is a full-size luxury sedan that competes directly with the class-leading Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the very capable Lexus LS. Like other BMW rides, the 7-Series handles like a smaller sports sedan and is extremely quick. The 2009 7-Series features several options for driving dynamics, from sublime comfort to extreme sportiness. Its user-friendly cabin has plenty of technology features, making it an excellent choice for a luxury ride.
This sedan is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo DOHC 8-cylinder engine producing 400 hp and 385-lb-ft of torque. This, coupled with the six-speed automatic transmission, sprints the 7-Series from 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds. With only around $14,000, the used market offers excellent examples of well-kept 2009 7-Series.
26 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class - $14,431
The Mercedes-Benz CLS was introduced in 2008 as a sleek-looking sedan, almost considered a luxury four-door sports-back. While the exterior styling is polarizing, there is little argument about how luxurious and well-crafted the interior is. The ride is also very smooth, handling is well-balanced, and both driver and front passenger seating are spacious.
Available in two trims, the CLS550 is powered by a 5.5-liter V8 making 382 hp, and the AMG-spec CLS63 has a 6.3-liter V8 producing 507 hp. This is a perfect entry into the world of luxury vehicles, and it doesn't require anyone to rob the bank to afford it. The used market offers well-maintained, low mileage examples for only $14,500. Pristine models sell for as much as $25,950, while project buys go for as low as $3,800.
25 2009 Infiniti G37 - $9,776
On average, the 2009 Infiniti G37 costs around $12,616. However, the used car market has plenty of examples in perfect condition that cost well below $10,000. The car was launched in 2009 to replace the newly redesigned 2008 Infiniti G35. This mid-cycle change included the much-needed option of all-wheel drive, symbolized by the letter “X” following the nameplate.
The G37 offers very athletic handling, a powerful 3.7-liter V6 engine with 330 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, and a much-refined and luxurious interior. It also included a highly efficient 7-speed automatic transmission which improved the overall fuel economy to 26 mpg on the highway with the rear-wheel-drive option. With the potent V6 under the hood, the 2009 Infiniti G37 sprints from 0-60 in under 4 seconds and attains a top speed of 185 mph. These are perfect performance stats and luxury features for a $10,000 car.
24 2008 Jaguar S-Type - $11,620
Jaguar's S-Type offered customers something different in a segment dominated by the BMW 5-Series, Audi A6, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Introduced in 2000, the S-Type was a revival of the 1960’s namesake. The car saw some great successes in Europe, with the European Automotive Press hailing its 2.7-liter V6 twin-turbodiesel engine as “a paragon of refinement, quietness, and fuel economy.”
With $11,620, buyers can own the luxurious 2008 S Type, a car that features an elegant interior, powertrain options, and adaptive suspension on the sportier R-trim. The 3.0liter V6 base engine packs enough power to move the S-Type through its paces; however, the optional 4.2-liter V8 is where the fun hibernates, awaiting awakening. This variant spits out 300 horses and still manages a respectable 24 mpg on the highway.
23 2008 Audi A5 - $11,442
The 2008 Audi A5 was part of the first generation of Audi’s Sportback, and quite frankly, it looks nearly identical to the redesigned and current second generation. This would be Audi’s re-entry into the entry-level luxury coupe ever since the Audi 80, produced between 1966 and 1996.
While the Audi A5’s performance isn’t as impressive as the Infiniti G37 or the BMW 3-Series, the 265-hp V6 engine is chirpy enough to get the job done lavishly. On average, a 2008 Audi A5 costs $11,442.
22 2005 Maserati Coupe - $18,192
Maserati’s Coupe was released for the 2002 model year but lasted only until 2007. It was retired to make way for the GranTurismo. The Coupe is truly a four-seater luxury sports sedan, fitted with Ferrari’s excellent F136 engine, a 4.2L V8 that makes 385 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque. The Coupe replaces its predecessor, the 3200GT, which was fitted with a twin-turbocharged engine, and the naturally aspirated intake sure does impress with significant power delivery.
As a result, the Maserati Coupe can sprint from 0-60 mph in about 4.9 seconds, about 0.3 seconds quicker than the 3200 GT but about a full second quicker than the 3200 GTA. The typical listing price for this coupe is around $18,192, with a few examples selling for as low as $16,000.
21 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class - $14,995
Prices for a used 2002 Mercedes-Benz S-Class fall between $2,995 and $14,995, depending on the vehicle's condition and odometer reading. The S-Class is filled with the elegance and style Mercedes-Benz is best known for.
With the 2002 model, the manufacturer introduced their famous 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, an early iteration of adaptive cruise control, and active cylinder shut-off for increased fuel efficiency. Mercedes-Benz offered five engine variants starting with the 3.7-liter V6 on the S350 up to the massive 5.5-liter V12 twin-turbo on the S600. Two AMG variants are also available, with the limited edition S63 using the 444-hp 6.3-liter V12.
20 2008 Lexus ES - $18,990
The mentioned $18,990 is for pristine models of the 2008 Lexus ES. The price drops down to $6,500 depending on the car's condition. First introduced in 1989, the first five generations of this car were built on the Toyota Camry platform. That changed in 2012, with the ES sharing a closer bond to the Toyota Avalon, using its 2,800 mm wheelbase. That would make the 2008 model part of the final generation sharing the underpinnings of the Camry.
The Lexus ES features the well-known 3.5-liter V6 with intake and exhaust variable valve timing technology that Toyota cars have become famous for. The design, while somewhat muted for today, was far sleeker than its predecessor and was a great stepping stone to what Lexus has gone on to do. It features a high-quality cabin, comfortable seats, and a silky smooth drive.
19 2009 Acura RL - $10,433
The Acura RL follows the Acura Legend, which had a successful run from 1985 through 1995. on average, it sold 60,000 units in the United States for its first six years before numbers tapered off in its final years. By comparison, the RL averaged a paltry 12,500 units per year before dropping below the 5,000 average mark for the second generation. The public did not take too kindly to the Acura RL, although the second generation was not necessarily as bad a car as its sales depicted.
To fix the mess caused by previous models, Acura updated and adapted the 2009 RL by increasing its power output, fine-tuning the all-wheel-drive system, and upgrading its styling. The 2009 RL is quiet and comfortable and comes with an excellent selection of standard features. Underhood lies a 300-hp SOHC 3.7-liter V-6 with VTEC on intake and exhaust valves mated to a five-speed transmission to deliver a smooth and luxurious ride. Prices for the 2009 RL range between $3,319 to $10,433.
18 2009 Acura TL - $10,477
The more popular Acura TL is a fan favorite, comfortably outselling any other Acura product. In its prime, the TL averaged over 65,000 units per year between 1999 and 2007. Completely redesigned for 2009, the fourth and final generation TL was the perfect balance of sportiness, comfort, luxury, and high-end technology. It was also highly rated by IIHS and NHTSA with stellar safety scores.
Powering the Acura TL was either a 3.5-liter front-wheel or 3.7-liter V6 with all-wheel drive. The drivetrain options produced between 280 and 305 hp and paired to a smooth-shifting 5-speed automatic transmission. The interior is often credited for being highly modern and futuristic, while the suspension and drive dynamics are brilliant on the all-wheel-drive model. Even better, the 2009 TL is among the most affordable luxury cars today. Its prices range between $2,906 and $10,477.
17 2009 Audi A6 - $10,450
An able competitor to the excellent BMW 5-Series, Lexus ES, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, Acura TL, and Cadillac CTS is the excellent Audi A6. While not as luxurious and well-rounded as the E-Class or as performance-oriented as the 5-Series, it sits comfortably between the two.
The front-wheel-drive 3.2-liter V6 may be a weak drivetrain for some, considering this is a heavy car, but 255 hp is fairly adequate for a luxury mid-size sedan. Like other Audis, the A6 is open for upgrades. It can be upgraded to perform like a premium luxury sports car, other than an ordinary luxury car. The car can be had for around $10,000. Buyers can also opt for the turbocharged 3.0-liter or the 4.2-liter models that can make up to 350 hp.
16 2007 Audi A8 - $12,495
Continuing to move up the Audi pole is the full-size luxury A8. The A8 boasts a luxurious large cabin and features plenty of technology for both drivers and passengers. Thanks to the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, the ride is also very comfortable but still possesses great handling when pushed to the limits. Powering the A8 is the 4.2-liter V8 base engine making 350 horsepower.
There are other options with the W12 on the extended long-wheelbase and, of course, the S8. While the 2007 A8 has an average price of $10,933, its prices have occasionally gone up to $20,000, and down to $4,995, of course, depending on condition and mileage.
15 2008 BMW 3-Series - $10,406
The BMW 3-Series features world-class performance as one of the best-driving cars in the segment. So unparalleled is the 3-Series that it has repeatedly featured in best cars lists on top auto magazines like Car and Driver. The 2009 model was part of a redesign three years prior and features several trims and engine options.
The average price for a 2008 3 Series 328i is $10,406, and $13,999 for the 3 Series 335i. The 3 Series 328xi has an average price of $9,657. These variations ensure that there's something for any driver who desires to drive the luxurious 2008 BMW 3-Series.
14 2010 BMW 5-Series - $12,173
Like the 3-Series, the BMW 5-Series offers best-in-class acceleration and handling, which is unsurprising given what BMW rides are known for. The interior is comfortable, and fuel economy is very good at 26 mpg on the highway. The car has a small trunk size but offers a more passenger volume with ample passenger legroom.
The BMW 535i offers a turbocharged inline-six that makes 300 hp, 35 more than both the E-Class and A6. It is also the only car in the segment that still offered a manual transmission. The 2010 5-Series is offered in three variants. The 535i has an average price of $12,173, while the 5 Series 528i and 550i have average prices of $10,329 and $14,736, respectively, excellent bargains considering what these luxury vehicles have to offer.
13 2008 Cadillac STS V6 - $10,200
Offered with a revamped V6 and an optional V8, the Cadilac STS is designed to offer luxury and performance at its best. Cadilac upgraded the V6 to deliver 302 horsepower in 2008, clearly implying that the optional V8 was not necessary. Today, the 2008 Caddy STS V6 is one of the best old luxury sedans. Thanks to the horde of standard comfort, luxury, and safety features, it still provides drivers with a smooth, luxurious drive.
With the more potent V6 sedan, Cadillac offered the STS a performance handling package that only came with the V8-powered model. This package comprises a stiffer suspension, special wheels with summer tires, Brembo brakes, and fine-tuned steering gear. In 2022, all these goodies can be had with a small budget of only around $9,995.
12 2004 Cadillac Seville - $5,300
The Cadillac Seville, which also goes by the nameplate SLS, is a smaller-size luxury sedan manufactured from 1975 to 2004. Despite its diminutive size, the Seville was priced quite high and was eventually replaced by the Cadillac STS in 2005.
Virtually unchanged from the third generation, the only key differences were the improved suspension system, but it retained the very powerful 4.6-liter Northstar V8 engine making 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. For those in the market for a luxury sedan that is comfortable with premium performance, the Seville is one of the smoothest cars in this segment. And at around $3,400, it is also among the cheapest used luxury cars on the market.
11 2007 Lexus LS - $16,100
The Lexus LS is one of the best and most reliable large luxury sedans. It is offered in two variants; the regular 460 and the longer-wheelbase 460 L. The car is built to offer better reliability and long-term ownership scores than most competitors. Its cabin is top-notch. It offers executive-class seating and a significantly quiet, comfortable ride.
The base Lexus LS offers a 4.6-liter V8 that makes 380 hp. All in all, Lexus’ flagship sedan impresses and is an admirable foe to the German competition. Prices for the 2007 LS currently range between $7,999 and $21,369, with mileage ranging between 76,643 and 249,221 miles. With a budget of $16,100, buyers can drive home a well-kept example of the LS.
10 2011 Chrysler 300 - $12,500
Completely redesigned for 2011, the Chrysler 300 finally brought in a more competitive base engine, the 3.6-liter V6 with 292 hp. With that powerhouse, the 300 sat well above the Toyota Avalon, Ford Taurus, and Chevrolet Impala. The Chrysler 300 has excellent first-rate interiors, safety scores, and fuel economy. It has ample passenger and cargo volume and comfortable seats.
Considering that this 2011 300 is currently priced between $6,000 and $22,599 depending on condition and mileage, the car presents luxury lovers with an opportunity to drive one of the best at affordable prices. It's an American luxury ride that speaks power and presence.
9 2010 Hyundai Genesis - $15,750
The 2010 Hyundai Genesis is one of the best luxury sedans money can buy in 2022. It is built to offer excellent performance, reliable safety ratings, and a comfortable interior. Its luxurious cabin features plenty of technology. The Genesis is quick and offers a smooth ride with good handling for a luxury cruiser.
This generation of Genesis sedans paved the way for future South Korean luxury sedans to mount a challenge for the German competitors, further exemplified by the newer G60 and G70 series of sedans. Besides offering premium luxury features, the 2010 Genesis is also one of the cheapest luxury sedans to buy in 2022. While $15,000 is good for excellent condition models, the price can go as low as $$6,995 depending on the condition and the vehicle's odometer reading.