Most true petrolheads find themselves browsing through used car classified ads online at least once a month, indulging in the dream of which cars they would buy first if they hit the jackpot tomorrow.
More often than not, sports cars dominate that list and for good reason. They offer the perfect balance of performance and everyday usability, making them an enticing choice for any car enthusiast.
But why should that dream stay just a fantasy? The used car market is packed with fantastic sports cars that are not only affordable but also offer strong resale value.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the cheapest sports cars that are both cool and economical to maintain, helping to determine which ones hold their value best when it’s time to sell.
10. 1989-1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Average Used Price: $5,000
It’s incredible how a car so simple can be so effective, and the best Mazda MX-5 Miata models prove exactly that.
We believe the first-generation Miata is the ideal pick, as it offers a highly engaging driving experience that can be enjoyed in nearly any situation. Its timeless styling also harks back to an era when driving was arguably at its best.
The Miata is a go-to choice for many budding petrolheads, and as the best-selling roadster of all time, there is always a steady supply in the market.
High-mileage first-generation models can be found for as little as $2,000 in some regions, while pristine STO versions can reach up to $20,000. The SE and LE models, priced between $5,000 and $10,000, strike the best balance between affordability and resale value.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $3,000 | $13,000 |
| SE | $5,000 | $15,000 |
| LE | $10,000 | $16,000 |
| M-Edition | $10,000 | $17,000 |
| R-Package | $13,000 | $18,000 |
| STO | $20,000 | $19,000 |
Also Read: 10 Sports Cars That Are Actually Appreciating in Value Right Now
9. 2012-2021 Toyota GT86
Average Used Price: $13,000
Designed to be an accessible entry into the world of sports cars, the Toyota GT86 delivers an engaging driving experience at a reasonable price.
Under the hood, it features a 2.0-liter flat-four engine sending power to the rear wheels. While its 197-hp output might not seem overwhelming, the GT86’s lively handling makes it easy to break the rear loose something that enthusiasts quickly recognized.
As a result, the car has a massive aftermarket support network and a loyal fan base.
Used GT86 models can be found for as little as $12,000, but potential buyers should note that these cars aren’t particularly known for their reliability.
Maintenance costs can add up over time, though the silver lining is that GT86 models tend to hold their value well. Several trims are available in the used market, each offering a fair price for what they bring to the table.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $12,000 | $26,000 |
| Aero | $15,000 | $27,000 |
| Blackline | $13,000 | $27,000 |
| Giallo Edition | $18,000 | $28,000 |
| Blue Edition | $18,000 | $28,000 |
| Club Series Blue Edition | $17,000 | $29,000 |
| Club Series White Edition | $17,000 | $29,000 |
| TRD | $20,000 | $30,000 |
8. 2015-2023 Ford Mustang GT
Average Used Price: $25,000
The Ford Mustang hardly needs an introduction, as it has defined the affordable sports car segment for nearly 60 years.
The sixth-generation Mustang only improved with each passing year of its production run, offering a wide range of trim levels and powertrain options to suit different tastes.
With so many choices available, there’s a Mustang for everyone, and if you take the plunge and buy one, you certainly won’t regret it. Just take a look at this 90-year-old Navy veteran proving that you’re never too old to enjoy a Ford Mustang.
Entry-level models currently start around $20,000, but to find one with a reasonable mileage and a well-documented maintenance history, expect to spend closer to $25,000.
Several special editions were also released throughout the Mustang’s production, some of which can command prices as high as $40,000.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| GT | $20,000 | $32,000 |
| GT Premium | $23,000 | $36,000 |
| GT Performance Pack | $25,000 | $38,000 |
| GT Black Accent Package | $27,000 | $33,000 |
| GT California Special | $30,000 | $38,000 |
| GT Black Shadow Package | $32,000 | $33,000 |
| GT Heritage Edition | $35,000 | $35,000 |
7. 2010-2015 Chevrolet Camaro
Average Used Price: $15,000
A long-time rival to the Mustang, the Chevrolet Camaro has been a staple in the sports car world for what feels like forever.
It gained further popularity in the 2010s after becoming an on-screen icon as ‘Bumblebee’ in the Transformers movie series.
That pop culture status alone makes it a desirable investment, but with Chevrolet planning to retire the sixth-generation Camaro by the end of 2024, there’s even more incentive to get one now.
Add to that the endless customization options available, and the Camaro stands out as a sports car worth keeping an eye on.
While the high-performance ZL1 model commands a premium, the rest of the Camaro lineup remains reasonably priced.
Prices are unlikely to dip much further in the coming years, meaning purchasing one now and holding onto it could be a smart long-term move.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| LS | $10,000 | $23,000 |
| LT | $12,000 | $25,000 |
| SS | $20,000 | $33,000 |
| ZL1 | $40,000 | $50,000 |
| Z/28 | $30,000 | $55,000 |
| Transformers Special Edition | $15,000 | $25,000 |
6. 1996-2001 Lotus Elise
Average Used Price: $30,000
With Lotus now focusing almost entirely on electrification, there’s little doubt that the value of its used models will only continue to rise.
This is especially true for the Lotus Elise a car that perfectly encapsulates everything that both the brand and its founder, Colin Chapman, stood for: lightweight simplicity with an emphasis on cornering agility.
On a side note, we’d love to see this 2024 Lotus Elise render come to life someday.One of the best things about these compact two-seaters is that they are almost exclusively purchased by enthusiasts.
As a result, they tend to be meticulously maintained, making it rare to come across a poorly kept example.
The downside, however, is that first-generation Lotus Elise models have already begun appreciating in value, with even the most basic versions now fetching around $25,000 on the used market.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $25,000 | $22,000 |
| Sport 135 | $30,000 | $30,000 |
| Sport 160 | $35,000 | $35,000 |
| Sport 190 | $40,000 | $40,000 |
| Sport 160 Sport 190 Hybrid | $50,000 | $45,000 |
5. 2006-2014 Audi TT
Average Used Price: $15,000
Was the second-generation Audi TT unfairly judged when it debuted in 2006? We certainly think so. Fortunately, it has been receiving more appreciation in recent years, and for good reason.
The final third-generation TT remains quite expensive, while the first-generation model is starting to feel a bit too dated.
Also Read: 12 Pickup Trucks That Have the Best Long-Term Resale Value
That’s not to say that either of them is a bad choice, but the 2006-2014 Audi TT currently offers the best balance of affordability, performance, and technology.
The high-performance TT RS can be found for around $30,000, and even today, it remains an impressively fast car. However, if the five-cylinder powertrain feels a bit too extreme, the 2.0-liter versions offer a compelling alternative at a lower price.
The second-generation TT should hold its value for a few more years, but it’s unlikely to appreciate much beyond its current market range.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0T | $10,000 | $35,000 |
| 3.2 Quattro | $15,000 | $45,000 |
| 2.0T S line | $13,000 | $38,000 |
| TTS | $18,000 | $50,000 |
| TTS Competition Package | $20,000 | $55,000 |
| TT RS | $25,000 | $55,000 |
4. 2003-2012 Mazda RX-8
Average Used Price: $10,000
Mazda has officially announced the return of its legendary rotary engine in the near future though, perhaps not in the way that hardcore enthusiasts had hoped.
Realistically, the chances of Mazda producing another truly driver-focused rotary-powered sports car seem slim. This leaves the RX-7 and RX-8 as the primary options for those looking to experience a rotary engine firsthand.
The RX-7, however, has become nearly unattainable for most buyers, with some examples now fetching close to $50,000. Fortunately, the RX-8 remains a far more accessible and intriguing alternative.
It’s important to note from the outset that owning an RX-8 comes with significant maintenance costs, largely due to the rotary engine’s unique demands.
However, the silver lining is that purchasing one is relatively affordable compared to other vehicles on this list. If you can find a well-maintained example and take good care of it, there’s a strong likelihood that you’ll be able to recoup your investment when the time comes to sell.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Sport | $7,000 | $26,000 |
| Touring | $9,000 | $28,000 |
| Grand Touring | $10,000 | $32,000 |
| R3 | $15,000 | $32,000 |
| Spirit R | $20,000 | Varies |
3. 2005-2012 Porsche Boxster
Average Used Price: $20,000
For $20,000, the 2009 Porsche Boxster stands out as one of the most refined performance convertibles available.
Beyond its impressive performance capabilities, the Boxster 987 has a strong reputation for reliability making it a solid investment.
This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to satisfy their desire for a high-performance sports car without taking on excessive financial risk.
While you could opt for the older 986-generation Boxster, the 987 delivers a far more engaging driving experience and includes modern technology that still feels relevant today.
The used market currently values most standard 987 Boxster models between $20,000 and $25,000, while special editions like the RS 60 Spyder and Design Edition 2 remain harder to find and, in some cases, may not justify their higher price tags.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $20,000 | $45,000 |
| S | $20,000 | $55,000 |
| Spyder | $25,000 | $60,000 |
| Black Edition | $25,000 | $55,000 |
| RS 60 Spyder | $35,000 | $65,000 |
| Design Edition 2 | $50,000 | $55,000 |
2. 2007-2019 Maserati GranTurismo
Average Used Price: $40,000
A list like this wouldn’t be complete without at least one bold and extravagant choice, right? The 2010 Maserati GranTurismo not only delivers an exhilarating soundtrack courtesy of its V8 engine, but its styling has also gained more appreciation over time.
If turning heads is what you’re after, few cars can command attention quite like the GranTurismo. However, that level of opulence does come at a cost.
Depreciation has taken a significant toll on the GranTurismo, with the base model now worth only about a quarter of its original price.
While this is great news for potential buyers, the downside is that maintaining a car that originally retailed for $130,000 won’t be cheap.
If you’re prepared to take on the ownership costs, though, the GranTurismo will reward you handsomely both in terms of driving pleasure and potential resale value.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $35,000 | $130,000 |
| S | $45,000 | $150,000 |
| MC | $60,000 | $160,000 |
| Sport | $50,000 | $150,000 |
| MC Stradale | $70,000 | $170,000 |
| MC Centennial Edition | $90,000 | $180,000 |
| MC Stradale Centennial Edition | $100,000 | $200,000 |
1. 1999-2009 Honda S2000
Average Used Price: $15,000
If there’s one car on this list that truly deserves its spot, it’s the Honda S2000. Prices have been steadily rising, and all signs indicate that this trend will continue, making it a great long-term investment.
Beyond its value retention, the S2000 is an absolute joy to drive built to be revved hard and pushed to its limits. Even with years of enthusiastic driving, the S2000 remains impressively reliable, cementing its status as a dream car for true driving enthusiasts.
Let’s be clear: if you want an S2000, now is the time to buy. Prices are only going up, and those who invest in one now and take good care of it could see their purchase double in value over the next five years.
| Trim | Avg. Used Market Range | Original MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Base | $15,000 | $32,000 |
| Club Racer | $25,000 | $37,000 |
| Edition 100 | $30,000 | $35,000 |