In 2025, rising car prices and limited options make finding a new sporty coupe difficult, but the used market offers budget-friendly alternatives. Thanks to depreciation, used coupes become more affordable, even for buyers with strict budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury, performance, or muscle cars, there are plenty of choices available.
Coupes may not be the most popular segment, but that works in favor of buyers seeking driving thrills at a lower cost. To help, we’ve rounded up 10 exciting used coupes that deliver fun behind the wheel while maintaining an average price of under $20,000.
1. 2011 Audi A5
The 2011 Audi A5 is a stylish and elegant coupe that exudes German design flair. Its wide, low stance gives it an eye-catching presence, whether approaching or departing.
Inside, the A5 offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin, making even traffic jams more bearable. The coupe’s refined interior, combined with its sleek exterior, ensures it remains an appealing option for those seeking both style and comfort.
Beyond aesthetics, the A5 delivers an engaging driving experience. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four producing 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, it pairs well with a six-speed manual transmission and Audi’s AWD system.
Despite its seemingly modest power, the coupe accelerates from 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 130 mph. Once free from traffic, the A5 provides a thrilling ride, making it a joy to drive on open roads.
2. 2012 Honda Accord EX-L Coupe
The 2012 Honda Accord EX-L Coupe may not seem like the most exciting choice at first, but with the right configuration, it becomes a surprisingly fun car to drive. The ideal version to look for is the V6-powered model with a six-speed manual transmission.
This 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 271 horsepower and 251 lb-ft of torque, enabling the Accord to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 6.3 seconds, with a top speed of 140 mph. Despite being front-wheel drive, it delivers a spirited performance that stands out from the more pedestrian versions of the Accord.
Though finding this specific configuration can be challenging due to limited production, it’s well worth the search, especially given its relatively low price. The Accord Coupe’s V6 engine comes alive with every shift, thanks to Honda’s VTEC technology, delivering strong top-end power and an engaging driving experience.
Unlike its reputation as a practical sedan alternative, this version of the Accord Coupe proves to be a lively and thrilling ride, offering a perfect balance of reliability, comfort, and performance.
3. 2012 Hyundai Genesis 3.8
The 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 offers an excellent mix of performance and practicality in an attractive, rear-wheel-drive package. Though it wasn’t the most popular sports coupe when it debuted, it has become a great value for enthusiasts seeking an engaging driving experience on a budget.
Powered by a 3.8-liter V6 producing 333 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque, the Genesis Coupe accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 5.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 162 mph, making it one of the quicker options in its price range.
While Hyundai offered a turbocharged four-cylinder version, the V6 is the better choice for power and responsiveness. Although a manual transmission was available, the Genesis Coupe’s six-speed manual had some refinement issues, making the eight-speed automatic the more reliable and enjoyable option.
For those looking for an affordable yet thrilling sports coupe with rear-wheel drive dynamics, the Genesis Coupe 3.8 delivers impressive performance without breaking the bank.
4. 2013 Scion FR-S
The 2013 Scion FR-S is the original version of what later became the Toyota GR86, a lightweight sports coupe developed in collaboration with Subaru.
It features a high-revving 2.0-liter flat-four Boxer engine that produces 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, sending power to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
With a 0-60 mph time of around six seconds and a top speed of 143 mph, the FR-S prioritizes driving dynamics over sheer power, making it an engaging and fun-to-drive car, especially when paired with the manual transmission.
Designed with enthusiasts in mind, the FR-S boasts a tightly tuned suspension that excels on winding roads, delivering sharp handling and a responsive driving experience. While its lightweight chassis and balanced performance make it a joy to drive, it also offers a hint of practicality with a small back seat.
However, the rear seating is best suited for cargo or small passengers rather than adults. For those seeking an affordable, driver-focused sports coupe, the Scion FR-S remains an excellent choice.
5. 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T
The 2011 Dodge Challenger R/T proved that muscle cars could still deliver thrilling performance despite their size and weight.
While early critics dismissed the Challenger for being too bulky, Dodge responded with higher-performance models like the R/T, which featured a powerful 5.7-liter V8 producing 376 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque.
Paired with a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, the Challenger R/T could sprint from 0-60 mph in just five seconds and reach a top speed of 145 mph, making it a serious contender in the muscle car segment.
In addition to its raw power, the R/T model benefited from upgraded suspension and brakes, improving handling and stopping capabilities. Though it remains a large and heavy car, it still provides an enjoyable driving experience, especially on open roads.
While it won’t carve corners like a lightweight sports car, the Challenger R/T makes up for it with straight-line speed, classic muscle car styling, and a thunderous V8 soundtrack, making it an exciting and affordable option for performance enthusiasts.
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6. 2010 Infiniti G37
The 2010 Infiniti G37 was a refined yet sporty coupe that shared its mechanical underpinnings with the Nissan 370Z. Unlike its sibling, the G37 prioritized luxury, featuring a well-appointed interior with leather upholstery, power seats, and advanced in-cabin technology.
This blend of comfort and performance made it a more upscale alternative to the raw, driver-focused 370Z, appealing to those who wanted both excitement and everyday usability in a stylish package.
Under the hood, the G37 packed a potent 3.7-liter V6 producing 328 horsepower and 269 lb-ft of torque, sending power to either the rear or all four wheels. It offered a choice between a seven-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission, with the latter being the preferred option for driving enthusiasts.
With a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph, the G37 delivered strong performance while maintaining a level of refinement that set it apart from traditional sports coupes.
7. 2011 Cadillac CTS
The 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe may appear to be a large, luxury-focused vehicle, but it offers a surprising level of performance, especially with its 3.6-liter V6 engine and six-speed manual transmission.
Producing 304 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, this rear-wheel-drive coupe accelerates from 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 144 mph. While it may not be the first choice for tackling winding roads, its handling is more capable than expected, delivering a fun and engaging driving experience.
Beyond its performance, the CTS Coupe excels in daily driving with a refined interior and smooth ride quality.
Cadillac’s signature comfort is evident in its well-appointed cabin and supple suspension, making it an excellent choice for both spirited driving and relaxed cruising. This blend of luxury and performance makes the CTS Coupe a compelling option for those seeking an affordable yet stylish grand tourer.
8. 2009 Nissan 370Z Touring
The 2009 Nissan 370Z Touring is a dream car for driving enthusiasts, offering an exciting blend of power, agility, and track-ready performance.
Known for its excellent handling on curvy roads, the 370Z is a favorite among sports car lovers, and its strong aftermarket support makes it highly customizable for those looking to enhance its capabilities.
Powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine producing 332 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, this rear-wheel-drive coupe sprints from 0-60 mph in just 5.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 155 mph, making it a serious performer straight from the factory.
Even without modifications, the 370Z delivers a thrilling driving experience, especially when equipped with the six-speed manual transmission. This version includes an automatic rev-matching feature, ensuring smooth downshifts and a more engaging drive.
Whether carving through mountain roads or cruising the highway, the 370Z provides an exhilarating ride with its responsive engine, balanced chassis, and driver-focused design, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable yet capable sports car.
9. 2012 Audi TT
The 2012 Audi TT is a stylish and refined coupe that appeals to those who appreciate both luxury and performance. With its sleek, low-slung design and well-appointed interior, the TT offers a comfortable and inviting cabin, complete with a small rear seat that can accommodate children or extra cargo.
Its premium materials and thoughtful design make it an excellent choice for drivers looking for a balance of sophistication and sportiness.
Beyond its elegant looks, the Audi TT delivers impressive performance. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, it sends power to all four wheels through Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
This setup ensures maximum traction, especially when cornering or accelerating on open roads. With a 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph, the TT offers an exhilarating driving experience while maintaining practicality and everyday usability.
10. 2013 Ford Mustang GT
The 2013 Ford Mustang GT is a true muscle car icon, offering a powerful blend of performance and comfort. Equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, this rear-wheel-drive coupe accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 147 mph.
Its aggressive exhaust note and thrilling acceleration make every drive exciting, yet it remains comfortable enough for daily use. The spacious cabin provides ample room for two adults in the front, while the rear seats can accommodate passengers or extra cargo when needed.
While the Mustang GT is known for its straight-line speed, it also handles well on winding roads, offering a balance of power and control. The well-tuned suspension allows it to tackle curves with confidence, making it more than just a drag-strip performer.
When the road opens up, the Mustang truly comes to life, delivering an exhilarating experience that few cars in its class can match. With its combination of raw power, everyday usability, and timeless design, the 2013 Mustang GT remains a top choice for those seeking an affordable, high-performance coupe.
No matter your preference—luxury, muscle, or pure sports performance—there’s a used coupe out there that fits your budget and driving style. The depreciation of these vehicles makes them an excellent value, offering high performance at a fraction of their original cost.
Whether you crave the raw power of a Mustang GT, the balanced handling of a Scion FR-S, or the refined comfort of an Audi TT, these coupes prove that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy an exciting ride.
As new sports coupes become increasingly rare and expensive, the used market remains a goldmine for enthusiasts seeking fun, stylish, and powerful cars under $20,000.
With options ranging from high-revving Japanese icons to torque-heavy American muscle, these vehicles provide something for everyone. So, if you’re in the market for an affordable thrill machine, any of these used coupes can deliver an unforgettable driving experience without stretching your budget too far.
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