Just because you are a car enthusiast does not necessarily mean you will always buy a fast and expensive car. Budget constraints and work requirements can make one go for used cars that are cheap and practical. However, it is not a compulsion that these low-price tag cars have to be ugly, slow, and boring to drive.

There are a lot of options in the used car market that are handsome, fast, and reasonably priced. However, before buying a used car you will have to fix a price range first. Moving forward, decide which body style you prefer then aim for a specific brand.

From sedans to convertibles, there are infinite choices for you. You can buy a used Nissan Sentra or simply select the Porsche Boxster. Some old generations of the Ford Mustang can be budget-friendly whereas the BMW 3 Series has a great value despite a higher price tag.


10. 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI - front view, interior

The Volkswagen Jetta GLI was last redesigned in 2019 but it still looks fresh. It is a perfect car for commute and some fun in the second-hand market which tries to balance power and fuel economy.

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI S

Specs

Price

$23,200

Powertrain

2.0L Turbo Inline-4

Horsepower

228 hp

Torque

258 lb-ft

Transmission

6-speed manual

0-60 MPH

5.8 seconds

Top Speed

126 MPH

The turbocharged 4-cylinder engine makes for great driving pleasure and the Jetta GLI will leave you surprised with its quick throttle response. For 228 horsepower, you get a combined fuel economy of 28 MPG. You can explore the used Volkswagen Jetta GLI for sale in our inventory.


9. 2017 Fiat 500

Fiat subcompact cars were always on the favorite list of car guys and enthusiasts because of several reasons. They were small and easy to drive. Hence, they were a great option for those who do not like to get stuck in traffic.

2017 Fiat 500 - front view, interior

Furthermore, the impressive fuel economy numbers and reasonable price tags made them incredibly attractive but don’t forget their sloppy acceleration. However, in 2023, Fiat is only offering one model that is the Fiat 500X SUV which is priced at $28,965.

2017 FIAT 500c Convertible

Specs

Price

$16,990

Powertrain

1.4L Inline-4

Horsepower

101 hp

Torque

98 lb-ft

Transmission

5-speed manual

0-60 MPH

9.8 seconds

Top Speed

107 MPH

Meanwhile, if you want to get a used Fiat car in a different body style such as a convertible, wagon, or hatchback then you should check out our inventory. On the other hand, if you wish to look for alternatives then just type ‘Smart cars’ in our search box above.


8. 2020 Kia Stinger

Why should you get the used Kia Stinger Sedan? Well, for starters because of Kia’s extensive warranty period, there is a high chance you can buy a Stinger which still has some warranty left. Stiger is also that car that people would think to be much more expensive than its actual value.

2020 Kia Stinger - front and rear view, interior

The 255hp turbo engine on this car has a lot of potential even in its stock form and this can make a great project car for anyone looking to tune a vehicle.

2020 Kia Stinger

Specs

Price

$22,880

Powertrain

2.0L Turbo Inline-4

Horsepower

255 hp

Torque

260 lb-ft

Transmission

8-speed automatic

0-60 MPH

6.0 seconds

Top Speed

130 MPH

The Stinger is known for its athletic drive and comfortable front seats. Hence, in case you want to punish that gas pedal when you are already late for work, feel free to do so. Go to our inventory to find a used Kia Stinger near you.


7. 1998 Porsche Boxster

If you are in the mood for some old luxury sports convertible that is committed to performance then the used Porsche Boxster 986 first-generation models are the perfect place to look. For just an average price of $16,350, you can get a Porsche Boxster 986.

1998 Porsche Boxster - side and rear view, interior

However, it is important to get the car inspected well before striking a deal as repairs on major parts on a Porsche can set you off with a bill that’s hard to handle unlike the car, which has sharp and precise drive dynamics.

1998 Porsche Boxster

Specs

Price

$16,350

Powertrain

2.5L Flat-6

Horsepower

201 hp

Torque

181 lb-ft

Transmission

5-speed manual

0-60 MPH

6.1 seconds

Top Speed

149 MPH

That said, a 1998 Porsche Boxster Convertible will come with a 2.5L Flat-6 engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Together this combination puts out 201 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. For used Porsche Boxster and other cars near you, click on the inventory.


6. 2016 Chevrolet Sonic

The used Chevrolet Sonic purchase is a must if you are trying to learn to drive. Its small dimensions and relatively spacious interior will be the right factors that can aid your learning efforts.

2016 Chevrolet Sonic - front and rear view, dashboard, steering, gearstick

Furthermore, the Sonic has great handling, a sporty ride with RS trim specifications, and it is a practical car.

2016 Chevrolet Sonic

Specs

Price

$10,100

Powertrain

1.4L Turbo Inline-4

Horsepower

138 hp

Torque

148 lb-ft

Transmission

6-speed manual

0-60 MPH

8.1 seconds

Top Speed

124 MPH

However, do remember that its base 1.8L engine is sluggish and the automatic gearbox shifting could be smoother than you would expect. At the same time, the Nissan Versa Note can serve as a great option for the Chevy Sonic. You can find used Chevrolet Sonic and used Nissan Versa Note near you in our inventory. You can go for the 2015 to 2017 Sonic model years.


5. 1989 BMW 3-Series (E30) Convertible

1989 BMW 3-Series (E30) Convertible - side and rear view, interior

Want something cool with old-school vibes? Go straight for the BMW 3 Series (E30) from the 80s and early 90s. The average price for the BMW 3 Series E30 models from 1983 to 1994 is $30,731. It can be a little expensive if you are buying a used car for the first time but this generation of BMW is considered to be a dream for many and is only expected to rise in value.

1989 BMW 3-Series (E30) Convertible

Specs

Price

$14,838

Powertrain

2.5L Inline-6

Horsepower

168 hp

Torque

164 lb-ft

Transmission

4-speed automatic

0-60 MPH

8.3 seconds

Top Speed

135 MPH

However, if you have been in the used car business for a long, you would know that the average value of the 3 Series E30 will only increase. Hence, get yourself a nice 1991 BMW 3 Series model for $25,901. You can find other used BMW cars in our inventory.


4. 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata

1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata - front and side view, interior

An affordable used car and the Mazda MX-5 Miata can be used synonymously. The MX-5 Miata is a fun ride that is not heavy for your pockets and it is good flex for a used car. Furthermore, it gives you access to a great fanbase and community which will help you in the restoration and modifications of your MX-5 Miata.

1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Specs

Price

$12,252

Powertrain

1.8L Inline-4

Horsepower

128 hp

Torque

110 lb-ft

Transmission

5-speed manual

0-60 MPH

8.8 seconds

Top Speed

118 MPH

We would recommend the first generation Mazda MX-5 Miata which started in 1990 and lasted till 1997. Meanwhile, the average price for Mazda MX-5 Miata first-generation mode is $11,682.


3. 2015 Honda Accord

2015 Honda Accord - front side, and rear view

Honda cars are known for their reliability, affordable price tags, and easy maintenance and the Accord model is a great example that embodies all these factors. Since its inception in the market, it has been offered in various body styles such as hatchback, coupe, station wagon, and sedan.

2015 Honda Accord

Specs

Price

$9,992

Powertrain

2.4L Inline-4

Horsepower

185 hp

Torque

181 lb-ft

Transmission

6-speed manual

0-60 MPH

6.7 seconds

Top Speed

124 MPH

We recommend buying a used Honda Accord from the ninth generation or tenth generation which has an average price tag between $17,680 and $28,368.


2. 2002 Ford Mustang Convertible

2002 Ford Mustang Convertible - front and side view, interior

If you are on the hunt for a used sports convertible that has a refined engine, controlled handling, and great looks then the Ford Mustang would be the right choice. You don’t need to look for recent generations or model years.

2002 Ford Mustang Convertible

Specs

Price

$5,980

Powertrain

4.6L V8

Horsepower

260 hp

Torque

302 lb-ft

Transmission

5-speed manual

0-60 MPH

6.3 seconds

Top Speed

150 MPH

You can go for the used Ford Mustang from the fourth generation which has an average value of $21,150. The 2002 model Mustang came with a standard 3.8L V6 engine which supplied 190 horsepower. However, a more powerful 4.6L V8 engine on the GT trims was also given. Meanwhile, if you are interested in an alternative then the Chevrolet Camaro fourth generation will cost $19,008.


1. 2013 Nissan Sentra

2013 Nissan Sentra - front and side view, interior

The Nissan Sentra is slow and not the best-looking car in the market. However, if you are on a tight budget and cannot afford to buy a new car then a used Nissan Sentra can help you. A 2013 Nissan Sentra can cost as little as $4,950.

2013 Nissan Sentra

Specs

Price

$4,950

Powertrain

1.8L Inline-4

Horsepower

130 hp

Torque

128 lb-ft

Transmission

CVT

0-60 MPH

9.2 seconds

Top Speed

118 MPH

Hence, the used Sentra is a good deal which has comfortable seating and a roomy cabin. The 2013 Sentra has a combined fuel economy of 34 MPG but if you are on a highway it will offer 39 MPH. However, if you are getting an old model with the 6-speed manual transmission then the fuel economy numbers will drop. That said, it has a cargo capacity of 15.1 cubic feet which is decent and sufficient for short trips.