There is nothing better than driving around in a car that makes you feel like a million dollars, and there is no better car to help you feel this than the beloved sports car. Whether drivers want to slalom around a track, hit the country roads, or simply want to cruise; sports cars are the driving enthusiast’s choice.
With manufacturers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and Maserati dominating the sports car segment, it may seem to many that they will have to part with tens and tens of thousands of dollars, potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars, to buy a sports car that not only looks the part but also performs. But have no fear, as there are currently plenty of sports cars on the market that not only look like they should be worth a lot of money but are relatively cheap. So what could be better; an expensive, sleek-looking sports car that turns heads but costs a fraction of the price?
Here at TopSpeed, we are proud to provide readers with the most up-to-date and interesting information on all things cars. To bring you the most accurate data about 10 sports cars that look more expensive than they are, we have looked up information from automakers, and trusted sites like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, Car & Driver, Top Gear, and Fueleconomy.gov. Models have been arranged from the most affordable to the most expensive.
10 2012 BMW Z4
Average Price: $17,800
The 2012 BMW Z4 is a mean-looking machine, thanks to its sultry curves and aggressive, low stance. This drop-top roadster combines stunning aesthetics with thrilling performance, making it a true head-turner. Boasting a long hood, pronounced kidney grille, and sleek headlights, it’s a sports car that allows the driver to make a statement when they hit the road.
Specifications and Performance
Model |
sDrive 28i 2.0 Liter, Inline Four, RWD |
sDrive 35i 3.0 Liter Inline-Six, RWD |
sDrive 35is 3.0 Liter, Inline Six, RWD |
Horsepower |
240 Horsepower |
300 Horsepower |
335 Horsepower |
Torque |
260 Pound-Feet |
300 Pound-Feet |
332 Pound-Feet |
Transmission |
Six-Speed Manual |
Six-Speed Manual |
Seven-Speed Automated Manual |
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
Fuel Economy (CMB) |
27 MPG |
27 MPG |
27 MPG |
0 – 60 MPH |
5.5 Seconds |
5.1 Seconds |
4.8 Seconds |
Top Speed |
130 MPH |
130 MPH |
130 MPH |
All information was gathered from Edmunds, Fueleconomy.gov, and BMW.
Under the hood, the Z4 offers a range of engines that deliver power and performance. From the peppy four-cylinder to the growling inline-six, this roadster doesn’t just look good; it goes fast too. The precise steering and sharp handling make every twisty road an exhilarating ride.
9 2012 BMW M3
Average Price: $23,600
The 2012 BMW M3 is like a perfectly tailored suit for car enthusiasts. It’s all about the muscular appearance that screams power and performance. Featuring flared wheel arches, an aggressive front bumper, and signature quad exhaust pipes, it’s a visual symphony of sportiness. Inside, the cabin provides a perfect blend of comfort and support with carbon fiber trim and M-specific seats.
Specifications and Performance
Model |
2dr Coupe/Convertible 4.0 Liter, V-8, RWD |
Horsepower |
414 Horsepower |
Torque |
295 Pound-Feet |
Transmission |
Six-Speed Manual |
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
Fuel Economy (CMB) |
16 MPG |
0 – 60 MPH |
4.3 Seconds |
Top Speed |
174 MPH |
Information gathered from Edmunds, Fueleconomy.gov, and Car & Driver.
The M3’s distinctive power dome hood hints at the beast lurking beneath. Its 4.0-liter V8 engine delivers a raucous 414 horsepower, providing exhilarating performance. With its stunning appearance, luxurious interior, and heart-pounding performance, the 2012 BMW M3 offers a lot for less than $25,000!
8 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK
Average Price: $24,000
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK offers a huge amount of luxury and style for the price. With an average used price of $24,000, drivers not only get exquisite German engineering but also a classic-looking sporty roadster. The SLK’s sleek lines, iconic front grille, and elegant contours give it a refined charm that turns heads wherever it goes.
Specifications and Performance
Model |
SLK 300 2.0 Liter, Inline Four, RWD |
SLK 350 3.5 Liter V-6, RWD |
AMG SLK 55 5.5 Liter V-8, RWD |
Horsepower |
241 Horsepower |
302 Horsepower |
335 Horsepower |
Torque |
273 Pound-Feet |
273 Pound-Feet |
332 Pound-Feet |
Transmission |
Nine-Speed Shiftable Automatic |
Seven-Speed Shiftable Automatic |
Seven-Speed Shiftable Automatic |
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
Fuel Economy (CMB) |
27 MPG |
24 MPG |
22 MPG |
0 – 60 MPH |
5.8 Seconds |
5.6 Seconds |
4.5 Seconds |
Top Speed |
155 MPH |
Unpublished |
155 MPH |
Information gathered from Edmunds, Fueleconomy.gov, and Car & Driver.
Beneath the stunning exterior, the SLK offers a range of punchy engines that deliver power and efficiency, making it a breeze to go top-down and hit the road with the wind in your hair. With its precise steering and sharp handling, every drive in the SLK is exhilarating.
7 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti
Average Price: $26,000
In typical Italian fashion, the 2018 Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti is an absolute beauty that oozes class and style. The cockpit features luxurious leather upholstery and trim that wouldn’t look out of place in a Bentley or Ferrari, providing a comfortable and elegant driving experience.
Specifications and Performance
Model |
Ti 4dr Sedan 2.0 Liter, Inline Four, RWD & AWD |
Horsepower |
280 Horsepower |
Torque |
306 Pound-Feet |