18 Of The Fastest Cars Anyone Can Buy For Under $20,000

Car enthusiasts are always looking for a bargain. Nothing makes you feel better than when you’ve found the perfect car for a fair price. Most of us would love to own a brand new 2023 Chevy Corvette, although few of us would be able to afford the $70,000 price tag.

To those who aren’t particularly interested in cars, these bargains may seem outlandish. But, they result from intelligent shopping. Sure, your vehicle may be a bit older. Yet, with a few more miles on the clock, you’ll be smiling in an old Porsche while your co-workers have grown tired in new commuter sedans.

Some used cars here are not necessarily suitable investments or even intelligent purchases. For instance, a 10-year-old Porsche or Maserati will likely not be the most reliable car in the world. Sure, some used cars will cost you more in repair bills than you spent on the initial purchase of the vehicle. But hey, if you’re having fun, who cares?

We know that $20,000 can get you quite a lot on the used car market. These used cars are common on various car-selling websites across the country. While you may not be able to pick one of these up in your area for the exact prices listed, you can get pretty close. So, read on for the fastest used cars $20,000 can get, including sports cars, muscle cars, and sports sedans.

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18 2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS

Used Price Range: $19,400 – $21,000

The Chevrolet Camaro SS is one hell of a car. Even better, in 2023, you can find one for less than $20,000. Featuring a massive 6.2-liter V8 engine, the SS can push 426 horsepower at 5,900 rpm.

Furthermore, the Camaro SS comes with a six-speed manual transmission and can hit 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, topping out at 170 mph. Since Chevrolet has announced that it's ending the Camaro's run, the 2014 Camaro SS will only gain value.

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17 2006 Pontiac GTO

Used Price Range: $12,000 – $15,000

As one of the most underrated American cars in the past two decades, the GTO may not impress with its styling. But its performance is nothing to scoff at. It's one of the remnants of Pontiac's legendary muscle car legacy and features a 400 hp V8. Crack open the throttle and the GTO will reach a top speed of 175 mph.

This makes it faster than smaller and more agile sports cars from Europe, such as the Porsche Boxster and even the BMW M3 and M4. Yet, its price tag doesn't reflect this performance at all. Well-maintained examples can be had for as little as $12,000.

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16 2013 BMW Z4 sDrive28i

Used Price Range: $19,000 – $22,000

The Z4 is a small roadster that has proven itself one of the most popular offerings among entry-level sports cars for almost two decades. When it comes to maximizing your bang for the buck, the 2013 Z4 is the perfect model year to get.

Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine developing 241 horsepower, it will reach a top speed limited to 155 mph. Yet, decent examples hover around $18,000.

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15 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E63 AMG

Used Price Range: $19,000 – $22,000

The E63 AMG is the go-to car if you live in Europe and can't get your hands on a classic American muscle car. It's just as powerful, featuring a massive 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 pushing out 518 horsepower.

Still, if you aim to go fast in a straight line for as cheap as possible, this is the car you should get. The E63 AMG is well-known for its top speed of 200 mph with the electronic limiter removed.

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14 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG

Used Price Range: $19,000 – $23,000

If you want a fast Mercedes-Benz but in a smaller and sleeker package than the E63 AMG offers, the SLK AMG 55 is a great choice. Buyers looking for an insane amount of power and tire smoke should opt for the AMG version of the SLK. A 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG will cost you about $20,000 according to kbb, which is on the higher end of our budget.

But, with the prestige and power of the AMG badge, who could turn this deal down? Furthermore, it is available in a convertible, meaning that with the top down, you’ll be able to hear the sweet sound of that AMG exhaust.

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13 2004 Chevrolet Corvette

Used Price Range: $17,500 – $20,000

Buyers looking for an iconic ride on a budget need to look no further than the fifth-generation Chevrolet Corvette. Rear-wheel drive, a light body, and a powerful V8 engine combine to create a sports car known the world over.

With prices for the final model year of the C5 starting at around $17,000, it's one of the most affordable American sports cars. Cheap parts and a thriving aftermarket make this coupe accessible to just about anyone on a budget, from students to retirees.

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12 2006 Maserati Coupe Cambiocorsa

Used Price Range: $13,000 – $16,000

This is perhaps one of the more exotic offerings on this list. It may also surprise buyers to know that they can find a car like this for such a reasonable price, although your mechanic’s bill may end up costing you more than the actual car itself.

A 2006 Maserati GT Cambiocorsa can be yours for under $16,000, which is quite a deal for this Italian stallion. With a sports exhaust and a wax, this may be the most fun you can have for $16,000.

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11 2014 Dodge Challenger SRT8

Used Price Range: $19,000 – $21,500

If you’re still pining for a taste of US muscle, the Dodge Challenger SRT8 is here to satiate you. This is quite a fast ride and is a bargain for the speed it brings to the table. Buyers may find themselves stretching their budget, with 2014 examples going for around $20,000.

The Challenger is universally loved, and if you want to dominate every drag strip you visit, then this is the car for you. Strong looks and a powerful engine are undoubtedly appealing.

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10 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR

Used Price Range: $15,000 – $18,000

If you are dead set on a fast Mitsubishi, you may want to look at the Lancer Evo MR. The Mitsubishi Evo is like the Subaru WRX. Both feature turbochargers, and have roots in rally driving, and are reliable sedans. Still, it's the Evo you'll buy if you want a cheap JDM sports car that's faster than most American muscle cars.

The Evo is more performance-oriented, whereas the WRX is a touch more manageable. It is a little newer on this list, and buyers looking for a quick, reliable AWD car will be happy with either option. A 2012 model year can be had for $18,000.

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9 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

Used Price Range: $16,500 – $19,000

The STI is a regular bargain for about $16,000 for the 2013 model year. Perhaps pricey for an older Subaru, but well worth it for the speed you get. This is likely the car of choice for buyers in areas that receive snow – it’s hard to do better than a WRX. They are affordable, reliable, and fast, getting you from your home to the ski resort without batting an eye.

The older models still have the same oomph as the newer ones, so why not go for a 2013 model and save a bit of money?

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8 2014 Ford Mustang GT

Used Price Range: $19,000 – $21,500

For buyers on a budget, this iconic American racer is a steal for under our $20,000 budget. Despite being almost a decade old, the 2014 Ford Mustang GT can still deliver exceptional performance for the money.

The Mustang is an icon idolized by car enthusiasts young and old. Owning one is sure to get some envious but joyful looks when you cruise down the street. There is a booming aftermarket for modifications, and it’s easy to make this car look unique and go even faster.

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7 2006 Cadillac XLR

Used Price Range: $17,000 – $21,000

The Cadillac XLR is an underrated American sports car that doesn’t receive much attention. The stylish and sporty coupe is one of the more unique rides on the road and spiced up Cadillac’s lineup.

It’s a bit older, and buyers shopping under a $20,000 budget will likely end up with a 2006 model year. This car will cost you about $17,000, and newer XLRs can climb quite a bit higher than that.

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6 2012 Lexus IS 350C Convertible

Used Price Range: $16,000 – $18,500

The Lexus IS 350C is a somewhat unusual offering from Lexus, but it makes this list nonetheless. Buyers in search of a Japanese ride can find a 2012 model year for about $16,000, which is a pretty good deal for this car.

The Lexus will last you many years, and you’ll continue to get looks when you pull up to the country club, especially with the top down. Style, power, and reliability make this Lexus a desirable ride for anyone.

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5 2013 Jaguar XJ XJL Ultimate

Used Price Range: $17,500 – $20,500

A budget of $20,000 can put you in a serious luxury car, as is the case with this Jaguar XJ. Buyers can get a 2013 Jaguar XJ XJL Ultimate for that price, which will make them feel as though they’re in a much more expensive car.

The 2013 Jaguar XJ XJL Ultimate can be costly to maintain, but for the power, prestige, and luxury that you receive, it's a sacrifice worth making.

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4 2008 BMW M3

Used Price Range: $17,000 – $19,500

Last, but certainly not least, we have the M3 – one of BMW's best driver's cars. This highly sought-after German sports car can be yours for roughly $20,000. Naturally, you’re looking at 2008 model years or lower. Compared to its peers, the M3 is a performance-oriented choice that isn’t as stuffy as a sporty sedan.

This car will push you into the seat and keep you pinned there on whatever journey you're on. The speed is electrifying – this is one of the fastest cars you can get for this price.

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3 2014 Dodge Charger SRT8

Used Price Range: $19,500 - $21,500

In the early 2000s, Dodge wanted to re-ignite public interest in its cars, so it hatched a plan to revive one of its most popular muscle car nameplates - the Charger. The Charger was quite controversial when it debuted in 2005, largely because it was a large sedan that didn't look anything like the old Charger from the late '60s.

Thankfully, the Charger made up for it in the power department, particularly if you got the high-performance SRT8 trim. In 2014, the Charger SRT8 had a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine dishing out 470 hp, giving it a 0-60 of just over 4 seconds and a top speed of 175 mph.

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2 2013 Nissan 370Z

Used Price Range: $17,000 - $19,500

The Nissan Z has been a vital part of the Japanese marque's lineup since the '60s when the first generation - the legendary Datsun 240Z - hit the streets. The current Nissan Z generation debuted in 2022 and has maintained its predecessors' reputation for offering exquisite looks and insane speed at a much more affordable price than European sports cars.

However, a new Z costs more than $40,000, which is why we recommend the 370Z instead. Powered by a 3.7-liter V6 engine sending 332 hp to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, the 370Z is sure to leave a smile on your face. If that's not enough for you, the 370Z is among the best Japanese project cars and has a wealth of aftermarket parts to make it even faster.

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1 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 55 AMG

Used Price Range: $15,500 - $19,500

The AMG badge is an easy way to tell that the car you're looking at is fast, especially when it's on the longest-running Mercedes-Benz sports car model - the SL Class. This is why it's so easy to recommend the 2005 SL 55 AMG to anyone looking for an incredibly fast German sports car under $20,000.

For that low amount, you get a stylish sports car with a retractable hardtop, many luxury features, and a monstrous 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine making almost 500 hp. Maintenance costs might be a bit high for this car, but if you can keep it on the road it's a blast to drive.

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