Determining the “best car” is a deeply personal decision, as it depends heavily on individual preferences. Some people prioritize high performance, focusing on horsepower and top-speed stats.
Others are drawn to luxury, valuing features like comfortable interiors and advanced technology.
Still, others seek different qualities entirely in their dream car. While the list of potential desires is nearly endless, our budgets often set the limits for what we can afford.
For many, finding the best car means going through the used car market in search of the perfect deal. Depreciation can be a car enthusiast’s best friend, allowing buyers to score exceptional vehicles at significantly lower prices.
With the right approach and knowledge, it’s possible to acquire something extraordinary without breaking the bank.
In fact, a budget of $20,000 can get you a car with over 500 horsepower or a top speed of 180 mph, depending on your priorities. Below are 10 of the best-used cars you can buy for under $20,000.
10. Chevrolet Corvette C6 (2005-2013)
The Chevrolet Corvette has consistently been a top choice for performance enthusiasts, and the C6 model is now a standout bargain.
While it retained much of the iconic Corvette styling, Chevrolet refined and modernized its design without straying too far from its roots.
Beneath the surface, the C6 represented a significant engineering leap forward compared to its predecessor.
With up to 505 horsepower, a 0-60 mph time of 3.7 seconds, and a top speed of 200 mph, the C6 delivers supercar-level performance.
Chevrolet Corvette C6 Value
The C6 Corvette has become remarkably affordable over time. A well-maintained example can now be purchased for around $15,000 an incredible deal for the level of performance it offers.
This makes the C6 Corvette a top contender for enthusiasts on a budget.
9. BMW 3 Series (2006-2011)
The BMW 3 Series has long been considered one of the most versatile cars, offering a perfect blend of performance, practicality, luxury, and comfort.
The E90 generation, introduced in 2006, was a particularly strong iteration. Featuring a sleeker and more elegant design than its predecessor, the E90 also brought improved performance.
With up to 414 horsepower, it could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 150 mph.
BMW 3 Series Value
The E90 3 Series is currently a great deal. You can find a solid example for as little as $4,000. This price point is remarkable for a car that combines luxury, reliability, and performance so effectively.
8. Lexus LS (2006-2013)
For those seeking a used car with an emphasis on luxury, the Lexus LS is a compelling choice. Known for its meticulous craftsmanship and seamless blend of comfort and performance, the LS stands out in the luxury sedan category.
This series was engineered to prioritize passenger comfort, boasting advanced safety features and cutting-edge infotainment systems.
Under the hood, its refined 5.0-liter V8 engine could propel the car from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds, with a top speed of 168 mph.
Lexus LS Value
While the Lexus LS has retained its value better than some competitors thanks to Lexus’s reputation for reliability it remains an excellent deal.
Priced at under $10,000, it offers a level of luxury and performance that is hard to match at this price point.
7. Nissan 370Z (2009-2019)
The Nissan 370Z had big shoes to fill when it debuted in 2009, as it was the latest installment in Nissan’s legendary Z car lineup.
Thankfully, it lived up to expectations and earned its place as a worthy successor to the iconic 350Z.
Nissan opted to refine the winning formula rather than reinvent it, delivering a car that retained the sleek, low-slung, curvaceous styling that Z cars are known for.
Performance-wise, the 370Z packed a punch with its 350-hp V6 engine, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds and reaching a limited top speed of 155 mph.
Nissan 370Z Value
The 370Z’s status as a JDM classic has helped it maintain solid resale value, yet it remains accessible to buyers on a budget.
You can still find one for less than $20,000, though prices may start climbing soon. Now is the perfect time to snag one while they’re still a steal.
6. Chevrolet Camaro (2010-2015)
The fifth-generation Chevrolet Camaro marked a triumphant return for the iconic nameplate after an eight-year absence.
Launched in 2010, this model revived the Camaro’s storied history by blending retro-inspired design elements with modern engineering.
Drawing heavily from the muscle car’s golden era, the fifth-gen Camaro stuck to the classic formula of bold styling and brute power.
Equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 580 horsepower, it could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph.
Chevrolet Camaro Value
For muscle car enthusiasts, the Camaro offers incredible value, delivering over 550 horsepower for under $20,000. You can find a solid example for around $10,000, making it one of the best deals in the used performance car market.
5. Ford Mustang (2011-2014)
Another classic muscle car, the fifth-generation Ford Mustang, shares similarities with its rival, the Camaro, in terms of performance and retro-inspired design.
Released in 2011, this iteration of the Mustang took cues from earlier models, particularly the iconic 1967 Mustang.
Beneath its nostalgic exterior, the fifth-gen Mustang housed cutting-edge engineering, with the top-tier Shelby GT500 model boasting a supercharged 5.8-liter V8 engine.
Producing an impressive 662 horsepower, it could sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and achieve a limited top speed of 180 mph.
Ford Mustang Value
With its blend of immense power and affordability, the Mustang remains a favorite among muscle car fans.
You can find a good example for under $15,000, making it one of the most accessible high-performance vehicles on the market. In terms of used muscle cars, the Mustang is hard to beat.
4. Mini Cooper S (2011-2016)
The Mini Cooper is one of the most iconic cars in automotive history and has maintained its legendary status since its original release in 1959.
The Cooper S is the sportiest iteration of this iconic vehicle, and the second-generation R56 BMW Mini Cooper S, which debuted in 2011, combines iconic styling with fun performance at an affordable price.
While staying true to its retro roots, this modern Mini incorporated improved performance features and added comfort.
Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 208 hp, the Mini Cooper S can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of around 140 mph.
Mini Cooper S Value
The market prices for the second-generation R56 Mini Cooper S are currently in an excellent spot.
With its combination of BMW engineering, unique design, and solid performance credentials, $8,000 is an outstanding value for anyone interested in this vehicle. It’s a practical yet exciting option that car enthusiasts will appreciate.
3. Ford Focus ST (2013-2018)
The Ford Focus has long earned its reputation as one of the best-handling vehicles in its class, and the performance-oriented ST model took that dynamic handling and added even more power and refinement.
The ST was the ultimate hot hatch, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that produced 252 hp. This allowed it to accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 6 seconds and reach a top speed of 150 mph.
Additionally, the ST came with upgraded handling features, such as sport-tuned suspension and enhanced braking systems, making it a complete package for driving enthusiasts.
Ford Focus ST Value
The third-generation Ford Focus ST was a favorite among performance enthusiasts during its run, and it remains very affordable in today’s market.
You can find a solid example for around $8,000. If you’re looking for a practical yet exciting performance hatchback, the Ford Focus ST is an excellent option.
2. Volkswagen Golf GTI (2015-2019)
The Volkswagen Golf GTI has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the most versatile, stylish, and enjoyable hot hatches ever produced.
Known for combining excellent performance with everyday practicality, comfort, and sharp styling, the Golf GTI has long been considered a must-drive for gearheads.
The seventh-generation Golf GTI was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 220 hp.
It could accelerate from 0-60 mph in approximately 6 seconds and had a top speed of around 155 mph. This combination of performance, comfort, and versatility cemented its status as a go-to option for practical enthusiasts.
Volkswagen Golf GTI Value
Golf GTIs maintain their value well, thanks to their loyal fan base and their ability to seamlessly blend sportiness with practicality.
However, you can still find a seventh-generation model for under $15,000 today. This makes it a fantastic value proposition for those seeking a practical yet exciting car.
1. Subaru Impreza WRX (2017-2019)
The Subaru Impreza WRX has maintained its reputation as a capable, stylish, and reliable performance vehicle for years.
While its heyday may have come in earlier generations, the fifth-generation WRX (2017-2019) was one of Subaru’s most refined models.
Its muscular design and aggressive stance call back to the earlier generations, while incorporating modern engineering and performance capabilities.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine produces 268 hp, allowing the WRX to accelerate from 0-60 mph in about 5 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph.
It offers a dynamic balance of performance, all-wheel drive confidence, and everyday usability.
Subaru Impreza WRX Value
The fifth-generation WRX remains one of the most impressive and refined WRX iterations produced by Subaru.
While it pushes close to the $20,000 range, it remains an outstanding choice for performance enthusiasts. A well-maintained WRX is an investment that continues to deliver both excitement and reliability.
These cars demonstrate that a limited budget doesn’t have to mean limited options. Whether you’re after high performance, everyday practicality, or luxurious comfort, the second-hand market is full of incredible deals waiting to be discovered.
