V10 engines belong to a rare breed of powerplants designed to strike a balance between the compact layout of smaller engines and the high cylinder count required for serious performance.
While the automotive market has largely shifted toward turbocharged smaller engines, hybrid systems, and fully electric platforms, the V10 continues to hold a special place among drivers who value sound, character, and mechanical presence.
Even as new cars with such engines become scarce, the used market still contains several models that remain within reach for buyers in 2025, provided that one understands the costs, trade-offs, and unique traits that accompany ownership. A V10-powered car is never just transportation.
It is a specific kind of automotive experience defined by a smooth yet forceful delivery of power, a distinctive tone, and a sensation that differs from the flatter and more common V8 layout.
Many of the most expensive supercars of the last two decades used V10 engines, but not every V10-equipped machine is unattainable. As performance models age, their prices become more approachable.
This creates an interesting opportunity for shoppers who would like to experience the personality of a V10 without entering the financial territory usually associated with exotic machines.
These cars often deliver strong acceleration, engaging rear wheel balance, and chassis tuning that was benchmark material in their day.
Even aging luxury sedans powered by V10 engines offer a unique mixture of refinement and strength that remains appealing despite modern alternatives.
Of course, affordability in purchase price does not automatically guarantee affordability in upkeep. Many V10 cars carry maintenance routines that differ from smaller engines. More cylinders often mean more components, and more complex packaging sometimes means higher labor costs.
Fuel consumption is obviously a consideration as well. Still, buyers who are prepared for the realities of ownership can find these vehicles to be rewarding.
Their engines tend to be durable when properly serviced, and parts availability for many models remains reasonable. The key is to approach the purchase with awareness and patience.
This article presents ten of the cheapest V10 cars that can realistically be purchased in 2025. These choices span a wide range of vehicles: luxury sedans, performance coupes, and even supercars that once defined an era.
Each option offers its own strengths and compromises, and each can deliver the sensory satisfaction that only a V10 can provide.
The goal is not to promote a perfect or flawless list but to describe what drivers can expect from these machines as they continue their lives on the used market.
1. Audi S6 V10
The Audi S6 V10 stands as a fascinating sedan because it carries an engine related to the one found in the early R8, yet it is packaged within a platform intended for daily use and long-distance comfort.
This unusual combination gives the S6 a character that blends performance presence with professional restraint.
The engine builds power with a smooth and confident surge, and while not as loud or dramatic as the R8 unit, it has a tone that still sets it apart from other luxury sedans of its generation.
Many buyers in 2025 find the S6 surprisingly accessible due to current market prices that have settled into a range far below what the car once commanded.
Despite its age, the interior remains solid and inviting, with well shaped seats and a dashboard layout that continues to feel stable and thoughtfully arranged.
As a luxury sedan with a performance edge, the S6 provides a driving experience that balances comfort and composure. The all wheel drive system distributes power with consistency, allowing the driver to maintain confidence in various weather conditions.
The car’s weight does soften some of its athletic abilities, but that same mass provides stability on highways and during long journeys. The steering retains a refined level of feedback, enough to create a sense of involvement without abandoning the polished nature expected from a premium sedan.
Even as newer cars adopt smaller turbocharged engines, the S6 V10 maintains a charm rooted in physical displacement and mechanical depth.
Ownership of an S6 V10 requires attention to service intervals and a clear understanding of the engine’s complexity. Many components surrounding the engine bay were designed with precision rather than simplicity, which means that neglected examples may bring unwelcome surprises.
Cooling, ignition, and lubrication systems must remain in good order, and buyers should prioritize cars with documented upkeep.
Inside the cabin, older electronics, such as early infotainment systems and various control modules, may need occasional repairs. Still, when maintained properly, the S6 engine has a reputation for long-lasting stability.
For drivers looking for a confident sedan with a distinctive engine, the S6 V10 offers an appealing mixture of practicality and personality.
Its market value in 2025 places it among the cheapest paths to a ten-cylinder ownership experience without requiring buyers to step into the world of exotic coupes.
The sound, the smoothness, and the rarity of the configuration continue to make the S6 attractive to those who want a luxury car with more spirit than the average sedan.
2. Audi S8 V10
The Audi S8 V10 represents a full size luxury sedan with strong performance credentials and a quiet, commanding presence. This model once stood as the top of the Audi lineup, equipped with an engine that delivers steady, refined acceleration rather than abrupt bursts of force.
The interior provides an environment crafted for comfort, complete with supportive seating and materials that still hold their quality even as newer technology reshapes the luxury market.
Buyers in 2025 are often surprised by how attainable these cars have become due to normal depreciation, allowing many people to enjoy a flagship sedan with a distinctive engine layout.
While not a sports car in traditional form, the S8 maintains stability and poise that allow it to handle enthusiastic driving sessions with confidence. Its All Wheel Drive system ensures that power is delivered with reliability, even on wet or uneven roads.
The large chassis provides excellent straight-line comfort and steady tracking at higher speeds. Many owners appreciate that the S8 projects strength without resorting to overly aggressive styling.
This subtle appearance appeals to drivers who prefer capability paired with restraint. The suspension tuning creates a ride that blends soft luxury with a firm foundation, ensuring calm behavior while still allowing the engine to express itself.
When considering an S8 V10, potential buyers should understand the demands of maintenance. The engine generally performs well with regular servicing, but the car’s advanced systems require ongoing care. Air suspension components, electrical features, and climate control units may eventually need attention.
Fortunately, owners who keep the car on a proper maintenance schedule report stable reliability. Parts availability remains acceptable due to the model’s popularity during its production years, and knowledgeable service specialists can still be found.
Those who select the S8 V10 often do so because it provides a unique mixture of comfort and power. The ten-cylinder engine contributes a sense of occasion each time the car accelerates, and the cabin offers a peaceful environment suitable for daily drives or long travel.
For buyers who want a luxury sedan with a strong yet polished personality, the S8 V10 stands as one of the most appealing choices within an affordable market range.
3. BMW M5 E60
The E60 BMW M5 continues to attract attention as one of the boldest performance sedans ever produced by the brand.
Its naturally aspirated V10 revs with excitement and brings a sharp, responsive feeling rarely found in modern engines. The sound profile is distinct, rising in tone with purpose as the revs climb.
This creates a connection between driver and machine that many enthusiasts still admire. In 2025, the E60 M5 appears frequently on lists of attainable V10 vehicles because its prices have dropped to reasonable levels for those who want a thrilling performance experience.
Behind the wheel, the E60 M5 behaves with a mixture of precision and aggression. The steering provides clarity, allowing the driver to place the car with confidence.
The suspension tuning maintains a firm but controlled feel, supporting the car’s performance capabilities without eliminating everyday comfort.
The chassis remains balanced and inviting, providing a sense of readiness that encourages spirited driving. While opinions differ regarding the automated manual transmission, many drivers come to appreciate its rhythm once they adapt their driving style to its unique behavior.
Maintenance is an important factor in the ownership experience. The V10 engine demands consistent and careful attention, including regular oil changes, bearing inspections, and monitoring of various engine management systems. Neglected examples can become costly projects, so a detailed service history is vital.
Mechanical components outside the engine, such as the transmission and electronic control modules, also require proper care. Enthusiast communities often provide strong support, offering guides and recommendations that help owners keep their cars in healthy condition.
The E60 M5 remains popular because it delivers a high-revving experience that feels pure and engaging. It represents a period when performance sedans focused on emotional response as much as technical efficiency.
For those who value direct control, distinctive sound, and a sense of occasion every time they drive, the E60 M5 stands as one of the most rewarding and affordable V10 powered vehicles available today.
4. BMW M6 V10
The BMW M6 V10 offers a performance experience similar to the E60 M5 but wrapped in a coupe body that emphasizes athletic design and sharper focus.
The long hood, low stance, and sculpted lines give the car a presence that remains strong even as newer models appear with modern features.
The V10 engine defines the driving character with its willingness to rev and its smooth delivery of power across the entire range. Buyers searching for a performance coupe with depth and personality often look toward the M6, especially since its prices in 2025 have become approachable.
Inside the cabin, the M6 balances comfort with sport oriented design. The seats provide strong support during fast driving while maintaining comfort during daily use.
The dashboard layout combines straightforward controls with luxurious materials, creating an environment suited for both long trips and spirited sessions.
The coupe profile encourages a more focused driving posture that enhances the sensation of connection to the road. The suspension tuning leans toward firmness, but it remains controlled enough to avoid harshness on typical roads.
Ownership of the M6 requires awareness of the engine and transmission maintenance routines shared with the M5. The V10 needs regular servicing to ensure longevity, and the transmission requires proper adaptation and software calibration.
Electrical features within the car also need monitoring as the vehicle ages. Buyers who prioritize examples with strong service records will enjoy a smoother ownership experience. Communities of owners provide valuable advice that helps keep these cars performing at their best.
The M6 continues to appeal to enthusiasts who want a coupe with a bold engine and a driving feel that encourages engagement.
Its combination of rarity, falling prices, and impressive performance make it one of the most attainable V10 coupes on the used market. For drivers who enjoy a car that offers excitement every time the engine starts, the M6 delivers an experience that feels both rewarding and memorable.
5. Dodge Viper (Earlier Generations)
Earlier generations of the Dodge Viper remain among the most accessible true supercars equipped with a V10 engine. These models focus on raw performance and straightforward engineering rather than luxury or advanced electronic assistance.
The large displacement engine provides powerful acceleration with a character defined by mechanical strength and immediate response.
In 2025, earlier Vipers can still be found at prices that are lower than many expect, though values continue to shift as collectors rediscover the appeal of analog performance cars.
Driving an early Viper offers an experience based on physical connection and driver control. The absence of heavy electronic intervention means that the car responds purely to driver input. Throttle control, steering accuracy, and weight balance play central roles in the Viper’s behavior.
Because many Vipers have been driven enthusiastically, the condition varies widely from car to car. A thorough inspection helps ensure that the vehicle performs reliably. Fortunately, the simplicity of the engine reduces the likelihood of complicated mechanical issues when proper care is provided.
The earlier Viper remains a compelling choice for those who want a supercar that delivers intensity and authenticity. Its combination of power, direct handling, and distinctive styling continues to attract buyers who prefer a more visceral driving experience.
As one of the cheapest V10-powered performance cars available, it provides a unique opportunity for drivers who want a machine built around strength, skill, and presence.
6. Lamborghini Gallardo (Higher Mileage Examples)
Higher mileage examples of the Lamborghini Gallardo present an intriguing opportunity for buyers who desire an Italian V10 supercar without the extreme cost of low-mileage models.
Introduced as one of Lamborghini’s most successful production cars, the Gallardo gained fame for its sharp styling, engaging driving character, and high-revving engine.
In 2025, cars with significant mileage can still provide the excitement of ownership while remaining far more accessible than their newer or rarer counterparts.
These vehicles continue to offer a sense of occasion, with a visual presence and engine note that immediately capture attention wherever they are driven.
The Gallardo’s layout and proportions are balanced for dynamic handling, creating a synergy between design, performance, and driver engagement that remains rare even among modern supercars.
Driving a Gallardo is an experience that emphasizes responsiveness, sound, and tactile connection to the road. Its naturally aspirated V10 engine produces an unmistakable tone that grows richer as revs climb, creating a sense of drama every time the accelerator is pressed.
Ownership and maintenance of a Gallardo require careful consideration, particularly for higher mileage models. While the V10 engine is durable, supporting systems such as the clutch, suspension, and cooling components must be checked thoroughly.
Timing belt service and regular fluid replacement are essential to ensure longevity, and tire wear should be monitored carefully due to the car’s weight and performance capability.
A detailed service history is highly recommended, as neglected cars can quickly accumulate costly issues. Buyers who choose well-maintained examples often find that the Gallardo continues to perform reliably and provides a driving experience that feels timeless.
For enthusiasts who dream of Italian supercar ownership, the Gallardo remains one of the most approachable V10 options. Its combination of high-revving drama, striking design, and relatively lower prices make it attractive for those willing to accept higher mileage as a trade-off.
The car delivers a visceral, emotionally charged experience that few modern vehicles can replicate, ensuring that even older Gallardos continue to provide a sense of excitement that remains highly desirable.
7. Lexus LFA (Higher Mileage or Special Circumstances)
The Lexus LFA is often regarded as the pinnacle of Japanese engineering and design, blending precision, technology, and performance into a cohesive supercar package.
Its 4.8-liter V10 engine was specifically engineered to deliver a unique sound and instant throttle response, producing a driving experience that feels highly mechanical yet precise.
While new and low-mileage LFAs are extremely expensive, some higher mileage examples or special circumstances occasionally make the car more attainable.
In 2025, buyers who are willing to accept the responsibilities of owning an older LFA may find that they can experience one of the most celebrated V10 engines of the past two decades without the premium price of a collector-grade car.
The driving experience of the LFA is defined by sharpness, control, and emotional connection. The engine revs to nearly 9000 rpm with exceptional smoothness, creating a soundtrack that many enthusiasts consider unmatched among naturally aspirated engines.
The chassis is extremely well-balanced, providing exceptional feedback through the steering and suspension.
Acceleration feels instantaneous, and the gearbox responds precisely to the driver’s inputs. The cabin, although smaller than larger GT cars, is thoughtfully laid out with a clear focus on the driver.
Seating positions, control placements, and visibility combine to give an impression of purpose and concentration that makes every drive feel significant.
Maintenance of the LFA is more demanding than typical sports cars due to the high level of engineering involved.
Specialized components, including the engine internals, a carbon fiber-reinforced chassis, and unique electronics, require expert attention. Parts are still available through Lexus service networks, but labor and replacement costs are higher than average.
For buyers in 2025 who encounter a rare, attainable LFA, the car offers one of the most refined and emotionally compelling V10 experiences, combining sound, handling, and engineering quality in a way that few cars can match.
8. Porsche Carrera GT (Higher Mileage Range)
The Porsche Carrera GT is among the most revered V10 supercars of its generation, renowned for its precision, performance, and raw driving appeal. Its mid-mounted naturally aspirated engine produces dramatic power with a distinctive, high-pitched sound that defines the character of the car.
While Carrera GTs are typically expensive due to their rarity, higher mileage examples occasionally present more affordable entry points for buyers who are willing to embrace the maintenance responsibilities that come with such a complex machine.
Even with additional miles, the car’s engineering quality and driving experience remain largely intact, allowing owners to feel connected to one of the most demanding and rewarding supercars ever made.
Behind the wheel, the Carrera GT emphasizes precision and skill. The V10 engine responds instantly to throttle input, creating a direct connection between driver and powertrain.
The chassis and carbon fiber monocoque deliver exceptional rigidity, allowing the car to corner with poise and stability.
Despite these requirements, owners who adhere to strict service schedules report continued dependability. A comprehensive history of past maintenance is vital when purchasing, as improper care can diminish both performance and value.
For collectors and driving enthusiasts alike, the Carrera GT represents one of the ultimate V10 machines. Even in higher mileage examples, it provides a visceral, engaging experience that few modern supercars can replicate.
Its combination of sound, handling, and mechanical purity ensures that it remains an aspirational choice for those seeking an extraordinary V10 car that rewards skill and attention to detail.
9. Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI
The Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI is a unique choice in the V10 market because it combines the power of a ten-cylinder engine with the practicality of a full size SUV.
While most V10s are found in sports cars or performance sedans, the Touareg delivers impressive torque and strong low-end performance, making it ideal for towing, hauling, or long distance travel.
In 2025, these vehicles are surprisingly affordable due to their age and the shift in consumer preferences toward electric and hybrid SUVs.
The combination of engine durability, spacious interior, and capable chassis makes the Touareg V10 TDI a compelling alternative for buyers seeking a V10 experience outside the performance or luxury category.
Driving the Touareg emphasizes the strength and smoothness of the V10 diesel engine. Its torque output allows the SUV to accelerate steadily even when fully loaded or towing heavy trailers.
The vehicle maintains a sense of stability and composure thanks to its well engineered suspension, and the steering is precise enough to handle highway travel confidently.
The interior, though not as luxurious as some European competitors, provides a functional and comfortable environment with seating for five and ample cargo capacity. These features make it an appealing option for drivers who want a practical daily vehicle powered by a rare engine configuration.
Maintenance of the Touareg V10 TDI requires understanding its diesel engine and supporting systems. Regular servicing of the fuel system, oil changes, and monitoring of turbocharger and cooling components are critical for continued reliability.
The engine is robust and built for longevity, but neglect can lead to costly repairs. Parts availability remains adequate, and many enthusiasts share tips for maintaining these vehicles effectively. Buyers should prioritize models with complete service records to avoid hidden issues.
10. Ford E Series V10 Vans
Ford E Series vans equipped with the Triton V10 are among the most accessible ten-cylinder vehicles in 2025. Built primarily for commercial use, these vans offer durability, simplicity, and a large engine capable of handling heavy payloads and towing tasks with ease.
While they lack the performance flair of supercars or sport sedans, they provide an honest, practical V10 experience at a price that is often a fraction of other options.
Enthusiasts seeking an inexpensive way to experience ten cylinders often find the Triton V10 in the E Series a surprisingly rewarding platform due to its mechanical straightforwardness and ease of maintenance.
Driving an E Series V10 emphasizes reliability over excitement, but the engine delivers consistent power that is noticeable even under heavy load. Acceleration is measured but sufficient for a full size van, and the drivetrain is built to handle extended use without frequent intervention.
Maintenance is simple relative to most V10 cars, which makes the E Series attractive for those who want low hassle ownership.
The Triton V10 engine is known for its durability and can last for many miles if properly serviced. Common service tasks such as ignition checks, exhaust system inspection, and oil changes are straightforward and inexpensive.
Parts availability remains strong due to the engine’s use in multiple Ford platforms, and labor costs are significantly lower than those associated with exotic or European performance cars. Careful selection of a vehicle with proper service history ensures reliable operation for many years.
For buyers who want a V10 without the high cost of supercars, luxury sedans, or sports coupes, the Ford E Series offers a unique solution. Its practicality, durability, and surprisingly engaging engine character make it one of the most affordable ways to own a ten-cylinder vehicle.
The E Series van proves that a V10 can be useful, dependable, and accessible while still offering the distinctive experience that comes with a ten-cylinder engine.
