Top 20 Cheap Cars That Are Really Fast (2025)

Most gearheads dream of one day owning a car that can satisfy their need for speed. An adrenaline rush that can only be achieved by blasting down a quarter-mile track in the time that it would typically take a driver to get up to 60.

Of course, that is not the case with many new cars coming out onto the market because some of them can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 3.0 seconds or less, such as the Tesla Plaid and the Porsche 911S. Unfortunately, these cars are still out of reach for most performance car lovers, but luckily there are some vehicles out there that are under $20,000 that are fast.

A buyer will have to spend a little extra restoring some of these affordable, fast cars, but that's part of the challenge — and excitement — of diving deep into this pond. Spend a little and spend a little more until the car only found in dreams sits in the garage. One that's fast, powerful, and cheap, all rolled up into one awesome vehicle.

Let's take a look at these 20 cheap but fast sports cars that can get every car lover moving down the right path.

30 Dodge Neon SRT4

Starting Used Price: $4,171

Despite the shortcomings of the basic Dodge Neon, it had a trump card called the Neon SRT-4. The high-powered Neon SRT4 was the turbocharged variant of the Neon that was developed by Performance Vehicle Operations, the in-house tuning arm of what was then Daimler Chrysler.

The Neon SRT4 packs a wallop. It is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged inline-four-cylinder engine, producing 215 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque. What's even better is that these compact, performance sedans were underrated. Depending on the model year, you are looking at 220 to 230 horsepower at the wheels, which roughly, translates to 255 to 270 crankshaft horsepower.

Pricing For A 2003 Dodge Neon SRT4

It doesn't sound like much by today's standards, but the Neon SRT4 was created to surprise many people. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in just 5.6 seconds - 0.4 seconds faster than the rear-wheel-drive 2001 Ford Mustang - and hit a quarter-mile time of just 14.1 seconds before maxing out at a top speed of 153 MPH. Perhaps the stink of the "Neon" nameplate has kept demand low for the SRT-4 because used turbocharged Neon models can be found for under $10,000. Point-blank, the Neon SRT-4 is a fast car.

29 E39 BMW 540i

Starting Used Price: $4,279

The BMW E39 is arguably one of the most underrated versions of the 5 Series. On the surface, the BMW 540i is a top-end spec of the 5 Series E39. But inside, it's an M5, even if it wasn't as powerful as that generation's actual M5. There's a lot to like about the 540i's capabilities. It was powered by a 4.4-liter V-8 engine that produced 282 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.

Moreover, dyno tests have revealed the horsepower figure to be underrated by 19 horsepower, meaning the E39's M62B44 engine makes a bit over 300 horsepower. Versions of this engine, found in newer BMW models, make 330 horsepower so, performance modifications are available if you choose to stick with the factory V-8.

Pricing For A 2003 E39 BMW 540i

If you are lucky enough to find one with a six-speed manual, 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) happens in 5.9 seconds, and the quarter-mile time of around 14.0 seconds at 104 MPH. Like most models, the 540i's top speed was limited to 155 MPH, but ungoverned, the Bavarian sedan can reach 165 MPH. Used versions of the BMW 540i E39 sell for as low as $6,000, with some of the best-used cars for under $10,000. If you want an M5 that can be built back up to prominence — and maybe throw in a bigger engine — the 540i E39 is an excellent way to go.

28 Lexus LS400

Starting Used Price: $4,612

Throughout the years, the Lexus LS series has been a mainstay for the company. Even though they have always been marketed as a personal full-size luxury sedan, they can get up and go. The second generation Lexus LS400 has a 1 UZ-FE V8 under the hood that can pump out up to 260 horses and has a torque rating of 270 pound-feet.

Pricing For 1997 Lexus LS400

That equals a 0 to 60 time of just under seven seconds and a quarter mile track time of around 15.2 seconds at 94.3 mph. The top speed of the LS400 is somewhere near 155 mph, but that all depends upon the track conditions. Even though this car is a Lexus, the second generation cars can still be bought for under $10,000, but the average going price today is close to $15,000 for a model in good condition.

27 2010 Ford Taurus SHO

Starting Used Price: $4,999

The Ford Taurus is a loyal sedan that had a hand in bailing the Blue Oval out of a deep hole in the 1980s. While its contribution to Ford isn't forgotten, its popularity certainly dwindled, and eventually fell flat before the 2020 model year. That said, there have been numerous model years that have excelled in what it was they were meant to do, from cheap economy car to growling performance sedan.

Pricing For A 2010 Ford Taurus SHO (KBB)

Equipped with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6, the 2010 Taurus SHO cranks out 365 horses and 350 pound-feet of torque, which is enough to launch the sedan from 0-60 MPH in 5.2 seconds. The top speed of 133 MPH is a bummer, though it ultimately preserved the lives of many Taurus SHOs, and their drivers. Standard AWD also helps the big sedan retain traction when dipping in and out of corners.

26 Jaguar XJR

Starting Used Price: $5,011

The second-generation Jaguar XJ was in the market for 17 years; to be fair, the XJ X308 wasn't that great of a car. Its faulty engine could set a person back in the red if it conked out at the most inopportune time. It also had a dated look, a product of laziness on Jaguar's part. On the other hand, the design has aged rather well, and the XJR would certainly fit well in today's neo-retro-themed automotive world.

Pricing For A 2003 Jaguar XJR

A car owner probably won't enjoy peak use of that engine due to its age and general wear and tear. But back then, the V-8 could summon 370 horsepower and 387 pound-feet of torque, allowing a 0-to-60-MPH time of just 5.6 seconds with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Used versions of the XJR X308 are dirt cheap, underscoring the model's myriad of issues when it was in the market. Still, if a buyer wants to take a stab at one and restore it to prominence, buying a used model for as low as $7,000 is possible.

25 BMW 330i

Starting Used Price: $5,114

Until the 2007 model year, the BMW 3-series was left behind by rivals that had given up on the high displacement V-8s and switched to turbocharged V-6s and inline four-cylinders. For the 2007 model year, BMW finally threw its hat into the pot and used the familiar BMW 3.0-liter V-6 for the standard power plant, but with a turbocharger to kick things off in the right direction.

Pricing For A 2006 BMW 330i

Adding a turbocharger to the engine created a system that pushed out up to 45 more horsepower and 80 pound-feet of torque, for a total of 300 horsepower at 5,800 RPMs and 300 pound-feet of torque at 1,400 RPMs. The torque from the engine was put to the rear drive tires through a 6-speed manual transmission, pushing the car from 0 to 60 MPH in 4.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 144 MPH (because of a governor that limits top speed.)

24 2005 Audi TT 3.2 Quattro

Starting Used Price: $5,400

The Audi TT is one of those cars that captured the world's intrigue for a moment thanks to its unique appearance and superb performance ability. The small TT 3.2 Quattro features a 250-horsepower 3.2-liter V-6, which was the most powerful TT at the time, as well as a six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox, and Quattro AWD. The VW-built V-6 allows the small coupe to race from 0-60 MPH in 6.4 seconds. And while not the fastest, the TT is sure to turn heads.

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Pricing For A 2005 Audi TT 3.2 Quattro (Hagerty)

The 2005 TT 3.2 Quattro can be bought for under $9,000 in good condition, though it's always important to check with a professional before purchasing a used sports car. That said, shelling out a little more dough can get you in a better example, which will be rewarding for years to come. The TT generally receives positive reviews from owners regarding its quality, reliability, and performance, with the 2005 model year earning a 4.4 out of 5 consumer rating.

23 Infinity G35 Coupe

Starting Used Price: $6,674

Anything built and designed after the Nissan 350Z will be a fast car, even if it is not marketed as such. The Infinity G35 Coupe is a car that can scoot from a dead stop to 60 within a matter of 5.8 seconds. It can get down the quarter-mile track in under 14 seconds if the conditions are right. The 3.5L V-6 may not be the most powerful of engines, but it can still pump out up to 302 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque.

Pricing For A 2007 Infinity G35 Coupe

The key to making this type of engine fast is weight and performance, which the G35 coupe has, and since it is not one of the most popular sports models on the market, they can be bought for as little as $10,000 or less if wanting a project car that needs some work.

22 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

Starting Price Used: $6,950

The first proper sports car from South Korea came for the 2010 model year and offered a great alternative to the likes of the Infiniti G35, and the V-6-powered Mustang and Camaro models. The best part is, because Hyundai isn’t really known for its exciting performance models, the Genesis can still be had for dirt cheap. Moreover, you can choose between a 2.0-liter turbo-four and a naturally aspirated V-6. Both engines are loosely based on Mitsubishi designs and are fairly robust if taken care of.

Pricing For A 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

For some reason, many examples are poorly maintained, which often results in rod-bearing failure. The Genesis Coupe boasts a balanced chassis and is one of the most spacious, two-door cars you can buy. Despite the Genesis Coupe being great value for money, the various squeaks and rattles from the interior will remind you that you are still driving a Hyundai. Still, it’s not nearly as bad as 1990s GM quality. The 0 to 60 mph sprint takes between 6.9 and 4.8 seconds, depending on how your Genesis Coupe is equipped.

21 Lexus SC430

Starting Price Used: $6,999

It’s no secret that, since its inception, Lexus was meant to be the Japanese answer to Mercedes-Benz. The SC430 is the logical competitor to the Mercedes SL500 (also on the list). Similarly, the SC430 is a two-seater, convertible grand tourer with a torquey V-8, and no particular eagerness to attack a canyon. For a long time, these Japanese luxury coupes were underappreciated, and we have Top Gear (Series 2, Episode 3) to thank for that, as the three former presenters dubbed it “the worst car on sale” in 2003.

Pricing For A 2001 Lexus SC430

It’s not that the Lexus SC430 is, actually, bad, however. The car is well-built and features one of Toyota’s best V-8 engines ever made – the 3UZ-FE. The five and six-speed, torque-converter automatics are not the quickest systems out there, but both are extremely smooth. Even at 20 years old, the Lexus SC430 shows no major issues. Most reported problems are related to squeaks and minor electrical gremlins.

20 Hyundai Genesis

Starting Price Used: $7,188

Hyundai initially slapped the Genesis badge on a luxury sedan aimed at the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes E-Class. The 2009 Genesis sedan was Hyundai’s most awarded vehicle and sold fairly well. Even today, the Korean luxury sedan shows that even luxury models can offer great bang for the buck. It shares the Genesis Coupe’s 3.8-liter V-6 albeit set up for more low-end torque. More importantly, it was also offered with a V-8 engine, which packs 375 to 428 horsepower depending on the year.

Pricing For A 2009 Hyundai Genesis Sedan

The Hyundai Genesis sedan is extremely reliable, and both engines are fairly under-stressed. Later models feature Hyundai’s in-house-developed eight-speed automatic, which is great, but the early, ZF six-speed unit is slightly better in terms of reliability, particularly when it comes to the clutch pack’s longevity.

19 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG

Starting Used Price: $8,332

What can be said about the mighty Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG that true fans do not already know about? The luxury sedan is not built to be a sports car, but with its handling and power, the driver would never know it. As a rule of thumb, any Mercedes that has the AMG designation is a highly sought-after car, but for some reason, this generation has never really gotten the attention that it deserves.

Pricing For A 2009 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG

That is good news for people looking to buy one because the average cost of a car in good shape runs between $10,000 and $20,000, which is a steal for a performance car that is a family car. Under the hood of these luxurious vehicles can be found a supercharged, 24-valve 5.4L V8 with a brake horsepower rating of 469. It produces a ground-pounding torque of up to 516 pound-feet. These numbers help the car rocket down the quarter-mile track in 12.4 seconds, and it can achieve a top speed of 155 mph.

18 BMW 645Ci/650Ci

Starting Price Used: $8,379

Chris Bangle-designed BMW models are aging better than everyone expected, and the BMW E63/E64 is a perfect example. While buying a used V-8 BMW hides, potentially, catastrophic failures, these sports cars can be reliable when taken care of. In the 645ci guise, the Bavarian grand tourer is powered by the N63, 4.4-liter V-8 while the 650ci relies on the N62, 4.8-liter V-8. The larger, N62 is considered the better engine, both in terms of performance and reliability.

Pricing For A 2005 BMW 645Ci/650Ci

However, it is extremely important to keep up with maintenance if you don’t want your 650ci to turn into an endless money pit. The best part is, that you can get these with a manual, although the ZF, six-speed automatic is also a great choice, considering the car’s GT credentials. The manual-equipped BMW 650ci (coupe) is the fastest version of the car before the M6, and 0 to 60 mph takes 4.8 seconds.

17 Audi S8 D3

Starting Used Price: $8,963

Despite weighing more than two tons, the Audi S8 D3 can slap you senseless with a sprint-to-60-MPH time of just 5.1 seconds on its way to maxing out at an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. A big part of the credit goes to what's sitting underneath that sheet metal of the front hood. Pop that open, and a 5.2-liter V-10 will be displayed. An engine that's considered a cousin of the 5.0-liter Lamborghini V-10 engine that powered the Gallardo supercar. Unsurprisingly, the S8 D3's V-10 unit could produce 444 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque.

Pricing For A 2007 Audi S8 D3

The S8 D3 looks like a stately car, and it fits the bill of one. Underneath all that, though, is a sports car waiting to be unleashed, and if a buyer is in the market for one, used versions of the S8 D3 can be bought for as low as $9,000. It's one of the fastest cheap cars out there. Moreover, the S8 D3 comes with QUATTRO all-wheel drive, to keep all that power in check.

The Audi S8 may be a luxury barge, but thanks to being one of the first executive sedans constructed primarily of aluminum, the curb weight is relatively low - 4,277 pounds (1,940 kg). Because of this, the S8 D3 is more athletic than the looks give credit for, and 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) happens in 4.8 seconds. The only issue worth concern is the idler pulley, which may cause squealing or chipping noises, and the carbon build-up on intake valves.

16 Volvo V70 R

Starting Used Price: $8,889

One car that nobody would ever expect to be on a list of fast and cheap vehicles would be a station wagon. Not only a wagon but one produced and built by one of the most dependable carmakers on the planet, Volvo. Although this vehicle looks like the typical car dubbed a "grocery getter," it packs a 2.5L four-cylinder graced with a turbocharger.

Pricing For A 2007 Volvo V70 R

Since it is already a small four-cylinder, it has better than average acceleration, giving the car a 0 to 60 mph time of 6.5 seconds. The acceleration of this V70 R station wagon is not the only thing that makes it great, though. It can achieve a top speed of 155 mph, just like the average V-8. Since this car is a Volvo, it is not as price-friendly as some other choices, but it can still be bought for less than $15,000.

15 2004 Pontiac GTO

Starting Used Price: $10,100

The Pointiac GTO is a name long-associated with performance, as its early iterations are often cited as the spark that ignited the American muscle car craze. While that notion is often debated, one thing is for sure, the GTO, throughout its lifetime, has blessed us with some really awesome models, some even exalted into legend status. The 2004 model isn't nearly as iconic as the late-1970s and 1980s models, though it did gain some notoriety of its own thanks to its exceptional performance ability and its iconic nameplate.

Pricing For A 2004 Pontiac GTO (Hagerty)

A standard 5.7-liter V-8 pumps out 350 horses to the rear wheel through a four-speed manual transmission. The engine notes are well-vocalized and the handling is stiff enough to snatch corners without thudding about. The most common gripe related to the early 2000s GTO is its appearance, as it looks rather aloof, especially considering its grunt. Regardless, one can be bought for a little over $10,000.

14 Nissan 350Z

Starting Used Price: $10,100

Even if you were not around for the '70s, you have undoubtedly heard of the sports car that turned the industry on its head; the Datsun Z car. Datsun is now Nissan, and those first generations of the little sports car dubbed the mini-Corvette have come a long way. The Nissan 350Z is a prime example, featuring a VQ35HR 3.5-liter V-6 engine that can pump out 306 horsepower at 6,800 RPM.

Pricing For 2008 Nissan 350Z

Along with the naturally aspirated six-cylinder horsepower, the engine under the hood could push out 268 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 RPM through a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic. Either way, you can be looking at screaming from 0 to 60 in 5.4 seconds on your way to a top speed of 150 MPH. If that is not fast enough, aftermarket turbocharger kits can be added to the engine to boost the power even more, cutting off some precious seconds on and off the track.

13 Mercedes-Benz S600

Starting Used Price: $10,676

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is not your everyday luxury car. It is the best of the best, which is why it was called the "special class" by the company building them. It was so special that the S-class was made into limousines and armored sedans for unique clients needing extra attention. But that is not why you want one, hopefully anyway. The real reason it is on this list is what is found under the hood, which is the mighty V-12 that pumps out over 500 horsepower.

Pricing For A 2007 Mercedes-Benz S600

All that power without any upgrades or adjustments, so you can imagine how much more you could get out of the engine with a little work and some aftermarket parts. Either way, as the car is straight from the factory, it can shoot down the quarter-mile track in 13.3 seconds on its way to a maximum speed of 155 MPH (Governor Limited). As for 0 to 60 times, you might want to hold on because you are looking at 4.4 seconds with an average car, better with an experienced drag racer behind the wheel.

12 Volkswagen Golf GTI

Starting Used Price: $10,800

The Volkswagen Golf GTI has been around for many years, being first produced in 1974 when it was built as a family car, not a hot-hatch like it is today. Between those decades of production, you can find some fast cars for a reasonable price, such as the 2013 Volkswagen GTI that can zip from 0 to 60 MPH in a mere 3.3 seconds and rocket to a high speed of 155 MPH without the driver even realizing it.

Pricing For A 1989 Volkswagen GTI

The newer the year you consider, the more money you will have to shell out, so a good plan may be to get an earlier generation, such as the MK2 listed above. If it does not live up to the speeds you are looking for, you can always yank the original motor out and modify it to take one of the newer versions. Either way, you go, the sport suspension, the low stance, and the aerodynamic design make for a wild ride once you get on the gas.

11 2006 Ford Mustang GT

Starting Used Price: $11,000

Ford Mustang is a name that resonates far beyond the realm of American muscle, as it has seen numerous generations over the course of more than five decades. The 2006 GT came as a welcome addition to the nameplate in the mid 2000s, with a steadfast 4.6-liter V-8 and a five-speed manual. Able to accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in just over five seconds, the GT was a snazzy sportscar that wouldn't bankrupt buyers - a trend that is more true now than when it was debuted.

Pricing For A 2006 Ford Mustang GT (Hagerty)

The current S650 generation is among the only American muscle cars not on the chopping block or going fully electric. This can be attributed to not only the consistent success of the Mustang, but Ford's confidence in its ability to remain positively received. This is no new trend, as even in 2006, Ford paid special attention to every detail and how it may affect the iconic name.

Thanks to the numerous outlets in which the Mustang continues to gain notoriety, be it motorsports, special edition models, and even crossovers, it's able to soldier confidently into the modern age as a true American muscle car.