10 Budget-Friendly Cars That Can Hit 0-60 in Under 5 Seconds

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Budget Friendly Cars That Can Hit 0 60 in Under 5 Seconds
Budget Friendly Cars That Can Hit 0 60 in Under 5 Seconds

Sports and performance cars have always been synonymous with high prices, often placing them out of reach for many car enthusiasts. The inclusion of cutting-edge materials and technology further inflates their cost, making it difficult for those on a budget to afford these high-performance machines.

However, the used car market has opened up new opportunities, allowing savvy buyers to get their hands on once-expensive, powerful cars at a fraction of their original price.

This list explores ten high-performance vehicles that can now be purchased for under $20,000, proving that speed and excitement don’t always have to come with a hefty price tag.

1. 2015 Audi S3 Sedan – Subtle but Speedy

At first glance, the 2015 Audi S3 Sedan might not scream performance, but its numbers tell a different story. Under the hood lies a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine that produces 292 horsepower, channeling power to all four wheels via Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

This setup allows the S3 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.0 seconds. Originally priced at $41,100, its current fair purchase price of around $15,183 makes it an incredible deal for those looking for an affordable yet quick sedan.

2015 Audi S3 Sedan
2015 Audi S3 Sedan

2. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG – A V8 Powerhouse

Luxury and power collide in the 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG, a compact two-seater equipped with a naturally aspirated 5.4-liter V8 producing 355 horsepower. This engine propels the car from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.9 seconds.

When new, this AMG roadster was priced at $65,170, but thanks to depreciation, it can now be had for around $16,075. This makes it an excellent choice for those wanting open-top thrills with a potent V8 soundtrack.

2008 Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG
2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG

3. 2016 BMW 340i xDrive – Understated Performance

The 2016 BMW 340i xDrive may not be the flashiest car on this list, but its performance credentials are undeniable. Sporting a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, it churns out 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque.

The result? A 0 to 60 mph time of just 4.9 seconds. Originally selling for $47,800, this BMW can now be acquired for around $16,675, making it a great option for those seeking luxury and performance at a reasonable price.

2016 BMW 340i xDrive
2016 BMW 340i xDrive

4. 1994 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 – A Classic Performance Icon

With its aggressive styling and high-tech features, the Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 was one of the most advanced sports cars of its era. Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 and an all-wheel-drive system, it produces 320 horsepower, enabling it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds.

While Hagerty values pristine examples at around $29,800, numerous well-maintained models can still be found for under $20,000, making it a rare and exciting find.

1994 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR 4
1994 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4

5. 2010 BMW Z4 Roadster sDrive35is – Open-Top Fun on a Budget

BMW’s Z4 Roadster has always been a favorite among driving enthusiasts, and the 2010 sDrive35is model is no exception. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine delivering 335 horsepower, this rear-wheel-drive roadster reaches 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. Originally sold for $56,995, it can now be picked up for around $16,534, offering fantastic value for those looking for a stylish and fast convertible.

2010 BMW Z4 Roadster sDrive35is
2010 BMW Z4 Roadster sDrive35is

Also Read: 10 Cars With the Best Power-to-Weight Ratios in Their Class for Extreme Performance

6. 1997 Chevrolet Corvette C5 – A V8 Legend

The C5 Corvette remains one of the best performance bargains available today. Packing a naturally aspirated 5.7-liter LS1 V8 with 345 horsepower, the 1997 model achieves 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds.

Initially priced at $37,495, it now commands a fair market value of around $16,100. With its combination of raw power, lightweight construction, and rear-wheel drive, the C5 Corvette is a compelling option for budget-conscious performance enthusiasts.

1997 Chevrolet Corvette C5
1997 Chevrolet Corvette C5

7. 2010 Chrysler 300 SRT8 – Muscle Car Luxury

The Chrysler 300 SRT8 blends executive-level luxury with muscle car performance. Featuring a massive 6.1-liter HEMI V8 producing 425 horsepower, it rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds. Though it once carried a price tag of $47,366, its depreciation has brought it down to an astonishingly affordable $14,790.

This combination of power, comfort, and affordability makes the 300 SRT8 an outstanding choice for those who want muscle car performance with a touch of sophistication.

2010 Chrysler 300 SRT8
2010 Chrysler 300 SRT8

8. 1992 Chevrolet Corvette C4 ZR-1 – America’s Answer to Europe

The C4-generation Corvette ZR-1 was Chevrolet’s attempt to take on European supercars, and it did so admirably. Featuring a 5.7-liter V8 that churns out 405 horsepower, it can reach 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.

Initially priced at $69,545, well-kept examples now go for around $19,400. While pristine models are appreciating, this iconic American sports car remains a stellar option for those looking to own a piece of Corvette history.

1992 Chevrolet Corvette C4 ZR 1
1992 Chevrolet Corvette C4 ZR-1

9. 2015 Volkswagen Golf R – Hot Hatch Performance

The Volkswagen Golf R proves that performance doesn’t have to come in a flashy package. With a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 292 horsepower and an advanced all-wheel-drive system, this practical hatchback dashes from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.

Originally sold for $36,595, it can now be found for around $16,970. This makes it a fantastic option for those who want speed and everyday usability in one package.

2015 Volkswagen Golf R
2015 Volkswagen Golf R

10. 2015 Ford Mustang GT Premium – The Muscle Car Benchmark

The Ford Mustang GT Premium remains one of the best-value performance cars on the market. Featuring a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Coyote V8 producing 435 horsepower, it can hit 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.

Though its fair market price sits at $20,253, a little negotiation can likely bring it under the $20,000 mark. As one of the last great naturally aspirated muscle cars, the Mustang GT represents an unbeatable combination of power, sound, and driving excitement.

2015 Ford Mustang GT Premium
2015 Ford Mustang GT Premium

Owning a high-performance car doesn’t have to break the bank. The used car market is filled with once-expensive sports and performance models that can now be had for a fraction of their original price.

Whether you prefer the refined luxury of a Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG, the raw muscle of a Ford Mustang GT, or the sleeper performance of a BMW 340i xDrive, there’s something for everyone under $20,000.

With careful shopping and a keen eye for deals, enthusiasts can experience the thrill of speed and performance without emptying their wallets.

Also Read: 10 Best Luxury Sedans That Offer Next-Level Comfort and Unmatched Performance in a High-End Package

Cars That Can Hit 0-60 in Under 5 Seconds">

By Park-Shin Jung

I am Park-Shin Jung. I am a professional content writer for cars.

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