Whether you’re looking for a fun second car to fling around the canyon roads on the weekends or you want one as a daily driver, a sports car is a great way to go. Sports cars come in all different shapes and seating configurations, however, only some of them can fit the tightest budgets. In case you’re looking for something on the cheaper end of the spectrum, here are 10 of the best used sports cars for under $10,000 according to Autotrader.
1. 2013 BMW 1 Series
The BMW 1M Series Coupe. | Timothy Hiatt/WireImage
The BMW 1 Series is a small coupe that can fit up to four passengers in relative comfort. Accommodations aside, this zippy rear-drive sports car is available with a six-cylinder engine that produces over 300 hp in addition to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Finding one under $10,000 could take some time, but it’s well worth the effort.
2. 2012 BMW 3 Series Coupe
BMW 3 Series Coupe | BMW
If you need something larger than a 1 Series, then you may want to look for a 2012 BMW 3 Series Coupe. The 3 Series offers a balanced ride along with plenty of power from its available six-cylinder engine. We prefer the six-speed manual transmission, however, you may have an easier time finding one with an automatic.
3. 2011 Chevrolet Camaro
2011 Chevrolet Camaro | Chevrolet
While the new Chevrolet Camaro is definitely an eye-catcher, the 2011 model is a downright bargain. For under $10,000, you can find one with a stout V6 engine that produces over 300 hp and has sharp handling characteristics as well.
4. 2006 Chrysler Crossfire
2006 Chrysler Crossfire | Stellantis
You might not believe it, but the 2006 Chrysler Crossfire is much more than its Avant-Garde aesthetics. Autotrader notes that underneath its art deco design, the Crossfire is filled with Mercedes Benz underpinnings straight from the first-gen SLK. For less than $10,000, the Crossfire is quite the cross-bred bargain.
5. 2011 Ford Mustang
2011 Ford Mustang GT | Ford
While you might have trouble finding a Ford Mustang with a V8 engine for under $10,000, you should have an easier time finding one with a V6. For the 2011 model year, Ford swapped in a more-potent 3.7-liter V6 that pushes out 305 hp and pairs well with the car’s sporty dynamics. And considering they can be found for cheap, you probably won’t miss the two extra cylinders.
6. 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe
2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 R-Spec | Hyundai
You might not think that you can have fun in a Hyundai, but check out a Genesis Coupe and prepare to be impressed. This sleek two-door is available with either a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder or a V6 engine. We suggest the latter paired with an automatic transmission for the most power and daily drivability.
7. 2012 Hyundai Veloster
2012 Hyundai Veloster | Hyundai
The Hyundai Veloster is an odd-looking three-door hatchback that offers a lot of practicality and fun. In addition to a good amount of passenger and cargo volume, thanks to its hatchback shape, the Veloster also instills many thrills with its tight handling characteristics and responsive four-cylinder engine.
8. 2007 Mazda RX-8
2004 Mazda RX8. | National Motor Museum/Heritage Images/Getty Images
The 2007 Mazda RX-8 may be the most unique choice on this list given its rotary engine and four-door coupe configuration. However, those attributes make for a fun and practical driving experience that you can enjoy every day.
9. 2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse
2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse | STAN HONDA/AFP via Getty Images
Admittedly, the Mitsubishi Eclipse might not be the most popular choice, but its edgy styling and potent V6 engine make it worth a look. Fortunately, you can find the final generation of the Eclipse for less than $10,000 nationwide.
10. 2008 Nissan 350Z
2004 Nissan 350Z | National Motor Museum/Heritage Images/Getty Images
The Nissan 350Z is an icon and its own right. For less than $10,000, you can have a performance coupe that’s agile in the corners and powered by a meaty V6 engine. What’s even better is that it’s comfortable enough to be driven every day without much issue.
Bargain sports cars for under $10,000
At a time when the average price of a used car is up to $27,000, it’s nice to know that good sports cars can still be found for under $10,000. Whether you’re looking for a fun daily driver or just something to throw around on the weekends, we’re sure that one of the cars on this list will work for you, even if you have a tight budget.
Keyword: 10 of the Best Used Sports Cars Under $10,000 According to Autotrader