We all love to rattle off the 0-60 times of the GT-R and 458, but most of us cannot afford the latest, greatest sports cars. The global economy still has not fully recovered from the Great Recession. The used car market became more important than ever for getting the car you want at the price you can afford.
This bargain list offers suggestions of used vehicles that are not fresh, but can definitely still offer fun. We chose a ceiling of $6,000 because it seems to be a sweet spot. It isn’t a lot of money to spend on a car, and you avoid the junky cars that tend to be even cheaper.
Many of us know how thrilling it can be to shift through the gears of a well-balanced car while snaking up twisty roads. For the most part, these vehicles are not what one would call “quick.” This gives a driver the opportunity to legally drive them to their limits on public roads.
Have fun shopping, or criticizing. Finally, remember that buying responsibly is just as important as driving responsibly. We cannot independently verify the quality of these vehicles.
By Nico Grant
6. 1997 Honda Prelude ($5,200 or Best Offer)
It may have been front-wheel drive, but the Honda Prelude is still well-regarded as a sporty car. Many Honda enthusiasts wish the brand would resurrect the nameplate. Until then, you can buy this black ’97 with 126,000 miles (202,800 km). It has the base 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine and an automatic, which could be a deal breaker. But the good news is, even with the aftermarket taillights, wheels, and exhaust, it’s still a Japanese car, so it likely has plenty of life in it. Check out the listing here.
5. 2000 Toyota Celica GTS ($5,990)
Would you like a sporty Toyota coupe, but can’t exactly swing for a GT86/FR-S? If so, this 135,000 mile (217,000 km) Celica may be for you. Yes, it has front-wheel drive, like the Prelude. But unlike the Honda, this offers a manual transmission. It has a naturally aspirated four cylinder engine, which is quite fun to wring out as you explore the car’s limits. It has a liftgate for greater cargo access, and arguably, its interior is nicer than the newer Toyobaru – and there’s a $20,000 discount over that car. And just look at that blue paint! Check out the listing here.
4. 1995 Lexus SC300 ($6,000)
Okay, we’ll level with you. The SC isn’t exactly a sports car. However, it is pretty cool if you like dependable, luxurious, restrained personal luxury coupes. Besides, it has rear-wheel drive *and* a manual transmission. It has 120,000 miles (193,000 km), which isn’t terrible for its age. Check out the listing here.
3. 2000 Audi TT Quattro ($6,200 or Best Offer)
Technically, this exceeds the price ceiling, but an offer of $6,000 may be enough to get the car. It’s still not a bad price for a vehicle with Quattro all-wheel drive. It also has a manual transmission and 1.8-liter turbo four. It does have a lot of miles – 178,500 (287,000 km), and past Audi owners will tell you to beware of any problems that may arise. Nonetheless, check out the listing here.
2. 2001 Mazda Miata ($5,800)
There’s no shame in owning a used Miata. In fact, it’s a rite of passage for many petrolheads around the world. This one is a manual (of course), with a 1.8-liter four cylinder. It has 131,000 miles (211,000 km), which isn’t ideal. On the other hand, this example features a lovely British racing green paint job with a contrasting tan interior. Check it out here.
1. 1986 Porsche 928 S ($5,100)
Dude, it’s a Porsche. Need I say more? It’s not old. It’s classic. It only has 101,000 miles (162,500 km) – pretty good for a car nearly 30 years old. However, this example has an automatic transmission mated to its V8. That could be a serious deal breaker, as Porsche’s greatest auto is the current PDK. But it’s still a Porsche. And it’s red. Very, very red. Check it out here.