Sports cars are the luxury cars for those who prefer a little more muscle in their ride, not just a flashy exterior or a lot of bells and whistles on the dash. However, sports cars tend to be a little out of the price range for most buyers, just like luxury vehicles.
One way to get the best of both worlds is to shop for used cars. You can get the power and style you want in a sports car while also saving enough money to come in under budget. In Cincinnati, Ohio, used car dealerships offer a range of options for sports cars that fit all budgets.
Here are eight fast cars you can get for less than $10,000:
2003 Infiniti G35
The 2003 Infiniti G35 is a more sedate looking sports car, but it offers more power under the hood than you might suspect. This model was sold with either a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 260 horsepower or a 3.5-liter V6 engine with slightly more 280 horsepower. It came with the option of a five-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual.
Depending on the specific trim level, some features included remote entry, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power moon roof, navigation system, stability and traction control and brake assist. When the car went on sale, it was priced around $30,000, but now you can get it for under $10,000.
2005 Nissan 350z
Nissan may not be the brand name you think of when you think of sports cars, but it has put out a few specialty models over the years that can rival the more well-known muscle brands. The 2005 Nissan 350z has a distinctive style that is sporty and fun, and it has a lot of power under the hood.
The 2005 Nissan 350z comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and a manual, six-speed transmission. The engine has 287 horsepower. Inside, features include leather upholstery and heated seats.
The car came in coupe and roadster versions, and it sold for close to $40,000 when it was new. You can pick it for a steal now at Cincinnati, Ohio used cars dealerships.
1995 Chevrolet Corvette C4
The Corvette has always been a popular sports car, and the 1995 Corvette C4 features the classic design for which the Corvette is known.
The 1995 Corvette C4 had a 5.7-liter V8 engine with 300 horsepower and 340 pounds per feet of torque. The two-door, two-seat hatchback was designed for fast driving, not for family travel. The Corvette had a sexy style that delivered on its promises.
Many people still drive these older Corvettes since they have a classic style and represent a piece of automotive history. You can buy one for right around $9,300 depending on condition and location.
2005 Ford Mustang GT
Mustang is among the royalty of muscle cars. The 2005 Mustang GT has an impressive body with a bulky presence. It features classic styling like a split grille and quad headlights.
Under the hood, the 2005 Mustang GT has a 4.0-liter V6 engine with an automatic transmission. It has 210 horsepower and 240 pounds per feet of torque. It’s rear-wheel drive, so you won’t be able to climb any mountains with it, but you can enjoy some fast driving around your local track or some more powerful get-up-and-go for everyday driving.
The 2005 Mustang GT is valued at just over $9,800.
2001 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28
Like the Corvette, the Camaro is a classic model that has a special place in the hearts of sports car lovers. The 2001 Chevrolet Camaro was a convertible that looked as beautiful as it was powerful. It had a 3.8-liter V6 engine with an automatic transmission, giving it 200 horsepower and 225 pounds per feet of torque.
The options on the 2001 Camaro Z/28 included a rear spoiler, power steering, tilt wheel, dual air bags, and a four-wheel anti-brake system.
You can buy the 2001 Camaro Z/28 for about $3,000, which is a fraction of what the car cost when it was new.
1998 Mitsubishi 3000GT
The 1998 Mitsubishi 3000GT has a sporty look that will turn heads on the road — if they can catch a good glimpse since you’ll be going so fast. The two-door coupe has an aerodynamic design with a rear spoiler.
The sporty coupe comes with a 3.0-liter V6 engine and a manual, five-speed transmission. It gets 161 horsepower and 185 pounds per feet of torque.
Features include power steering, tilt wheel, power windows and locks, cruise control, dual air bags and alloy wheels.
Though the 1998 Mitsubishi 3000GT is nearly 20 years old, it still has a lot of miles in it, especially if you find a certified model and continue to provide exceptional care. The car retailed between $25,000 and $45,000 when it was new, depending on its trim level and features. You can buy the car at Cincinnati, Ohio used cars dealerships for about $4,900.
2010 Chevrolet Cobalt SS
If you are looking for a newer model, the 2010 Chevy Cobalt SS is a great choice. The SS was a trim level available for the coupe or sedan version, and it was loaded with features.
The 2010 Chevy Cobalt SS has a 2.0-liter inline 4 turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower and 260 pounds per feet of torque. When new, it got fuel economy of 22 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Features include tilt steering, OnStar communication system, XM satellite radio, traction control, stability control and keyless entry. Optional features included things like heated seats, Bluetooth connectivity and a sun roof.
The 2010 Chevy Cobalt SS offers more room than most sports cars, seating five with plenty of leg space.
2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4
The Dodge Neon has typically been an economical family car choice. But this sporty version offers a much more exciting ride.
The 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4 has a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine that can take it from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds and can go a quarter mile in 14.2 seconds. It has a manual, five-speed transmission and front-wheel drive.
In addition to being fast, the 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4 is also comfortable. It has four doors and can seat five people. Features include power windows and locks, power steering, a tilt wheel, dual air bags, a rear spoiler and alloy wheels.
You can buy the 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4 for about $6,300.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to buy a flashy sports car that will give you a fast and fun ride.
These are just a few of the many models you can find for under $10,000. If you have a slightly larger budget, you will expand your options significantly, including newer models and those that have even more features.
Look for certified previously owned vehicles to make sure you are getting the best buy, and purchase the extended warranty where available. Stick to a maintenance schedule, and you’ll enjoy your new sports car for many years to come.
