5 AFFORDABLE HIGH-END USED SPORTS CARS THAT COST LESS THAN $40,000

  • Luxury sports cars aren't just a dream for millionaires - you can own one for under $40K.
  • Used sports cars offer top performance and pedigree without the hefty price tag of new ones.
  • Maserati, Porsche, Jaguar, Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin - affordable used models exist for all.

Most car enthusiasts dream of owning and driving a high-performance sports car, but the eye-watering price tags of these vehicles often put them out of reach. Researching the used car market for these high-end gems can rekindle dreams of tearing up the open road in one of these beauties. There are some bargain deals if you know where to look.

While brand-new sports cars can easily run you $60,000 or more, the used car market offers an exciting opportunity to get your hands on some true driving thrills at a fraction of the cost. From classic European sports cars to modern motoring icons, these cars deliver top-level performance and pedigree at down-to-earth prices.

We have researched some top desirable sports cars that are more affordable and within the budgetary reach of many car enthusiasts to help make a dream car a reality. These five incredible used sports cars prove that you don't need to be a millionaire to enjoy world-class motoring performance.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Car and Driver, and the Kelly Blue Book.

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Maserati GranTurismo (2016)

The Maserati GranTurismo is a luxury grand tourer produced by the Italian automaker Maserati. Known for its sleek and elegant design, the GranTurismo combines high performance with sophisticated styling.

Launched in 2007 and produced through 2019, this sports car boasts a powerful V8 engine and offers a comfortable and luxurious driving experience. With its distinctive appearance and impressive performance capabilities, the Maserati GranTurismo has become a popular choice for drivers seeking a combination of style and speed in a grand touring vehicle.

2016 GranTurismo Performance

0-60MPH

4.7 seconds

Top Speed

177 MPH

Curb Weight

4350 lbs

Horsepower

405 hp

Torque

339 lb-ft

Layout

Front-engined, rear-wheel drive

Under the hood, it boasts a 4.7-liter V8 engine, delivering a robust 405 horsepower. This power allows it to zip from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, enough to make any car enthusiast's heart skip a beat. Yet, what makes GranTurismo truly special is its price-performance ratio. When new, it was priced significantly lower than similar models by Ferrari or Porsche, offering nearly the same level of luxury and better overall usability.

Inside, the Maserati doesn't skimp on luxury either. The cabin is a haven of Italian craftsmanship, with leather seats and state-of-the-art technology that makes every ride comfortable and connected.

Price For A Used Maserati GranTurismo

A used Maserati GranTurismo is surprisingly affordable, given the exotic nature of these sports cars. The best price for one of these sports cars is currently offered by the 2016 model with prices ranging from $38,280 to $47,108, making it entirely feasible to pick up one of these cars for under $40K.

The GranTurismo is not only a fast car but also a practical choice for the discerning buyer who wants the thrill of a sports car with the practicality of a daily driver. It is spacious enough for a weekend getaway yet powerful enough to thrill on a spirited drive through winding roads. For those looking to enter the luxury car market without breaking the bank, the Maserati GranTurismo is an undeniable gem.

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Porsche Cayman (2015)

The Porsche Cayman is a highly acclaimed sports car that embodies the perfect balance of performance, style, and precision engineering. Introduced in 2006, the Cayman has quickly gained a reputation as one of the finest mid-engine sports cars on the market.

Performance For The Coupe 2D

0-60MPH

5.4 seconds

Top Speed

165 MPH

Curb Weight

2888 lbs

Horsepower

275 hp

Torque

213 lb-ft

Layout

Mid-engined, rear-wheel drive

Powered by a robust 2.7-liter engine in the base model, and up to a 3.4-liter in the S model, it delivers exhilarating speed and a nimble driving experience that makes every curve a delight.

Inside, the Cayman doesn't cut corners. The cabin features a sleek, driver-focused design with upscale materials and sophisticated technology. This ensures a comfortable ride, whether navigating tight city streets or cruising on the highway.

Pricing For A Used Porsche Cayman

To achieve the sub-$40K price range, the models of 2015 or older provide the best choice. The 2015 model has an average price ranging from $36,368 for the Coupe 2D to $50,478 for the GTS Coupe 2D. With its poised handling and invigorating power, the Cayman allows enthusiasts to enjoy premium sports car thrills without the premium price.

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Jaguar F-Type (2020)

British sports cars are renowned for their classy high performance, and the Jaguar F-type is a perfect example of this, offering style, performance, and luxury. Born from a rich heritage of iconic Jaguar sports cars, the F-Type exudes elegance and power with its sleek design and impressive performance capabilities.

With its distinctive silhouette, muscular lines, and signature grille, the F-Type is a true symbol of British automotive excellence. Whether roaring down the open road or cruising through city streets, the Jaguar F-Type commands attention and admiration as a timeless classic in the sports car segment.

Performance For The 2.0 Liter F-Type

0-60 MPH

5.4 seconds

Top Speed

171 MPH

Curb Weight

3360 lbs

Horsepower

295 hp

Torque

331 lb-ft

Layout

Front-engined, rear or all-wheel drive

The entry-level model comes equipped with a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces an impressive 295 horsepower, sufficient to propel you from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. For those craving more power, the V8 versions deliver heart-racing performance that can compete with much pricier supercars.

What sets the F-Type apart is its comprehensive package. It combines performance with daily usability and striking looks; a rare trio in the sports car domain. The exterior boasts a sculpted body and assertive stance, while the interior envelops the driver and passengers in luxury, featuring premium materials and advanced technology.

Pricing For The 2020 Jaguar F-Type

The 2020 Jaguar F-Type has an average price ranging from $37,995 to $68,990, making it one of the best value-for-money options for a used sports car under $40,000.

The F-Type's depreciation curve is less steep than many of its competitors, making it a smart purchase for those looking at long-term value. With its competitive pricing, superior craftsmanship, and undiluted driving pleasure, the 2020 Jaguar F-Type represents one of the most accessible luxury sports cars in the market within this price range.

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Alfa Romeo 4C (2015)

Amid the glossy lineup of sports cars, the 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C shines as an example of affordability and performance, presenting an irresistible proposition for enthusiasts looking to get maximum bang for their buck.

This compact powerhouse is a rarity in high-performance vehicles, especially considering the skyrocketing costs typically associated with sports cars. Its lightweight design and mid-engine layout contribute to a thrilling driving experience reminiscent of more exotic sports cars.

Performance Of The Alfa Romeo 4C

0-60MPH

4.2 seconds

Top Speed

160 MPH

Curb Weight

2465 lbs

Horsepower

237

Torque

258

Layout

Mid-engined, rear-wheel drive

The 4C’s 1.75-liter turbocharged engine may sound modest, but it's anything but that, pushing out 237 horsepower, accelerating the car from zero to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. This performance is further enhanced by the car's light frame, weighing less than 2,500 pounds, which ensures nimble handling and a dynamic driving experience.

Beyond just speed, the 4C's appeal is also in its design. With its seductive curves and striking silhouette, the car garners admiration on the streets and at shows alike. The interior, while Spartan, speaks to its race-inspired heritage, focusing on driving dynamics over luxury trimmings. However, one of the main criticisms of this car is its lack of comfort, making it less suitable as a daily commuter than the other cars on the list.

Pricing Of The 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C

The average price for the 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C is $39,073, making it one of the pricier options in the under $40,000 budget limit, and some of our other selections offer better value.

However, for those who dream of Italian sports car thrills without a hefty price tag, the 2015 Alfa Romeo 4C offers a compelling mix of style, speed, and affordability, making it a standout choice in the sports car market.

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Aston Martin Vantage (2007)

The Aston Martin Vantage is a prime example of a high-performance British sports car, showcasing the balance of elegance, power, and precision engineering typically produced in this part of the world. Renowned for its sleek and aerodynamic design, the Vantage presents a sense of sophistication and luxury while also delivering exhilarating driving dynamics.

With a long history of excellence in the world of motorsports, Aston Martin has infused the Vantage with cutting-edge technology and exceptional performance capabilities. From its powerful engine options to its agile handling and expertly crafted interior, the Aston Martin Vantage is a true icon of British automotive engineering at its finest.

2007 Aston Martin Vantage Performance

0-60 MPH

4.9 seconds

Top Speed

175 MPH

Curb Weight

3770 lbs

Horsepower

379 hp

Torque

302 lb-ft

Layout

Front-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive

The appeal of the Vantage is more than its iconic style. Powered by a potent 4.3-liter V8 engine, it boasts 380 horsepower and the capability to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds. The car’s handling is precise and responsive, a testament to Aston Martin’s commitment to automotive excellence.

Pricing Of The 2007 Aston Martin Vantage

At its debut, the Vantage was a breath of fresh air; a more accessible Aston Martin that didn’t skimp on the prestige or the performance that the brand is known for. Today, with average resale prices for the 2007 model hovering around $40,000, it presents an even more enticing value proposition. This model offers the thrills of an exotic sports car minus the financial sting.

The Vantage’s design has aged beautifully. Its classic, sculpted lines, and refined interior styling remain as impressive today as they were at launch. Owning a 2007 Vantage means driving a piece of automotive history; a stylish, powerful, and surprisingly practical choice for those looking to own a piece of the luxury sports car market without overspending.

The world of high-end used sports cars offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to own thrilling performance vehicles at an affordable price point. The five models highlighted are proof that luxury and speed can be within reach for less than $40,000.

From Italian to German and British sports car engineering, these cars deliver a driving experience that rivals newer, more expensive models. Buyers can enjoy the prestige and excitement of a luxury vehicle without breaking the bank by opting for a pre-owned sports car.

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