High-performance cars can be surprisingly attainable when you look in the right places. Certain used sports cars still bring the wow factor and aggressive style that make driving addictive. Curious which models punch above their price? Check out these 10 used sports cars that are worth every penny.
Mazda MX-5 Miata NA (1989–1997)
Produced between 1989 and 1997, the Mazda MX-5 Miata NA is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive roadster. Early 1.6L models provided 116 hp, while the 1.8L variant produced 133 hp and reached 0–62 mph in 8.2 seconds. Its double wishbone suspension at both ends also gives it famously nimble handling and classic sports-car charm.
Porsche Cayman 987 (2006–2012)
Just imagine driving the 2006 Porsche Cayman 987, mid-engine layout, 295 hp under the hood, hugging every turn. The Cayman S handles like a dream, precise and responsive. Porsche named it after the caiman, a small but agile crocodile found in Central and South America, which perfectly reflects its playful and quick nature.
Toyota Supra Mk4 (1993–2002)
If you’ve ever dreamed of an iconic sports car, the Supra Mk4 is it. It hits 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds, powered by its legendary 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo engine, making it fast and dependable. With the right upgrades, that engine can exceed 1,000 horsepower—no wonder it stole the spotlight in the first “Fast & Furious” movie (2001).
Nissan 350Z (2003–2009)
The Nissan 350Z (2003–2009) returned the Z-car to the U.S. after a six-year absence, powered by a 3.5L V6 producing up to 306 hp. Available as a coupe or roadster, it’s celebrated for its performance and pop culture fame, having been driven by Takashi, the “Drift King,” in “The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift.”
Ford Mustang S197 (2005–2014)
Manufactured from 2005 to 2014, the Mustang S197 combines retro looks with modern engineering. The GT’s 4.6L V8 delivers 300 hp, and the 2012 Boss 302 adds a performance edge. With its classic design, powerful engine, and nostalgic charm, this generation remains a smart choice for sports car enthusiasts.
Honda S2000 (1999–2009)
The Honda S2000 (1999–2009) is a driver-focused roadster introduced for Honda’s 50th anniversary. Powered by a 2.0L F20C inline-four with 240 hp, it revs to 9,000 rpm and features a highly praised manual gearbox. Lightweight and precise, the S2000 is still celebrated for its exceptional engineering and pure driving feel.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII (2003–2005)
Sold between 2003–2005, the Evo VIII features a 2.0L turbo inline-four delivering 271–276 hp. Its all-wheel-drive setup, inspired by rally racing, and sharp handling turn any drive into an adventure. Built for World Rally Championship racing, the Evo VIII brings high-performance rally tech and striking style to a sports sedan.
Nissan 370Z (2009–2020)
Nissan’s 370Z (2009–2020) delivers 332 hp from a 3.7L V6 and is lighter, more compact, and sharper than the 350Z. Drivers enjoy smoother downshifts thanks to the SynchroRev Match manual. The 2010 40th Anniversary Edition commemorated four decades of Z-car heritage, blending modern performance with classic appeal.
Dodge Challenger (2008–2023)
Since 2008, the Dodge Challenger has merged classic muscle design with modern performance. The SRT8’s 6.1L HEMI V8 produces 425 hp, while the Hellcat, a supercharged high-performance model, delivers over 700 hp. Inspired by the original 1970 Challenger, it’s a powerful, iconic muscle car that captures the spirit and style of American performance.
Alfa Romeo 4C (2015–2019)
The Alfa Romeo 4C (2015–2019) is an ultra-lightweight sports car featuring a carbon fiber monocoque chassis. It’s 1.75L turbocharged inline-four produces 237 hp, allowing for agile performance. At under 2,500 pounds, the 4C is light, fast, and precise, celebrating Alfa Romeo’s, the Italian carmaker, return to the U.S. after a 20-year absence.
