The Best Sports Cars From The 2010s That Are Cheaper Than You Think

The 2010s marked a turning point for sports cars, blending advanced engineering, improved handling, and striking designs into machines that redefined performance for the modern era. A decade later, many of these iconic models have depreciated to prices that make them surprisingly accessible, offering enthusiasts the chance to own a thrilling vehicle without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a fan of the raw energy of American muscle cars, the precision of German engineering, or the unique charm of Japanese performance machines, the 2010s offer a diverse lineup of sports cars that cater to every driving style.

From the retro-inspired 2013 Ford Mustang GT to the rally-bred 2014 Subaru WRX STI and the mid-engine perfection of the 2011 Porsche Cayman S, these cars capture the essence of driving excitement. Many of these models can now be found for less than $35,000, delivering incredible value for their performance and pedigree. If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a sports car that combines character, capability, and affordability, these options from the 2010s prove you don’t need a massive budget to experience the thrill of the open road. Here are ten of the best, now cheaper than you might think.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources. The models below have been ranked based on price.

10

2013 Ford Mustang GT

$22,500

The 2013 Ford Mustang GT represents the peak of the retro-inspired pony car era, delivering exhilarating driving dynamics at an affordable price point. By the 2010s, Ford had mastered the Mustang formula, blending a refined chassis with unmistakable styling. The GT model, specifically, offered enthusiasts an authentic muscle car experience that rivaled its more expensive European counterparts. With its long hood, aggressive stance, and a silhouette reminiscent of classic Mustangs, this car commands attention without breaking the bank.

Beyond its aesthetics, the Ford Mustang GT proved itself to be more than just a straight-line performer. Its improved handling characteristics allowed it to tackle corners with surprising agility. While still honoring its muscle car roots, this Mustang had begun to bridge the gap between raw American power and the finesse of European sports cars. For under $23,000, buyers are not only purchasing an engaging driving experience, but also a vehicle steeped in decades of automotive heritage.

Perhaps the most attractive aspect of the 2013 Mustang GT is its enduring popularity within the enthusiast community. Its robust aftermarket scene ensures that owners can customize and modify their cars to their heart’s content, whether for track use, drag racing, or simply enhancing the car’s already impressive looks. Few sports cars in this price range offer such a versatile canvas for personalization while retaining their core charm.

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9

2013 Audi TTS

$22,500

The 2013 Audi TTS is an often-overlooked gem in the world of affordable sports cars. With its sleek design and impressive build quality, it offers a level of refinement that’s hard to find in this price range. At $22,500, the TTS combines style, luxury, and dynamic performance in a package that feels much more expensive than it is.

What sets the TTS apart is its ability to blend comfort with performance. It delivers a smooth, composed ride for everyday use while maintaining the agility and responsiveness needed for spirited driving. Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures that the TTS feels stable and confident, whether on a winding road or a rain-slicked highway.

The TTS’s modern yet understated design continues to age gracefully, making it a stylish option for those who want a car that stands out without being ostentatious. For buyers seeking a well-rounded sports car with a touch of luxury, the TTS remains a smart and affordable choice.

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8

2015 BMW 228i M Sport

$22,500

The 2015 BMW 228i M Sport offers a refreshing alternative to the high-power, high-cost ethos of traditional sports cars. This compact coupe delivers the quintessential BMW driving experience in a smaller, more affordable package. With its perfectly balanced chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout, the 228i M Sport is an enthusiast’s dream that punches well above its modest $22,500 price tag.

What makes the 228i M Sport stand out is its emphasis on handling finesse rather than outright power. The car’s lightweight design and precise steering allow it to excel in tight corners and winding roads. BMW engineers infused the 228i with the same DNA that made the 3 Series a legend, making it an engaging option for drivers who prioritize agility and responsiveness.

Additionally, the 228i M Sport’s understated styling adds to its appeal. It avoids the flashiness of larger performance models, instead opting for a clean, timeless design. For those who appreciate German engineering and want a car that feels at home on both city streets and backroads, the 228i M Sport is an excellent choice that offers exceptional value.

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7

2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata

$24,500

The 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata continues the model’s tradition of delivering pure, unfiltered driving pleasure. Lightweight, nimble, and approachable, the Miata is often described as the perfect sports car for both novice and seasoned drivers. At $24,500, it remains one of the most affordable ways to enjoy top-down motoring with exceptional handling dynamics.

What makes the Mazda Miata special is its focus on simplicity and balance. It doesn’t rely on brute power to deliver thrills, instead offering a finely tuned chassis and communicative steering that make every drive enjoyable. Its compact size and lightweight construction make it an ideal companion for winding backroads and urban adventures alike.

The Miata’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to remind drivers of what makes cars fun in the first place. It’s a modern classic that continues to capture the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to own a truly special sports car.

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6

2014 Subaru WRX STI

$25,000

The 2014 Subaru WRX STI is a car that wears its rallying pedigree on its sleeve. Known for its distinctive looks and all-weather capability, the STI of this generation continued Subaru’s legacy of blending practicality with performance. It delivers an exhilarating driving experience that is hard to match in this price range, particularly for those who crave spirited driving on twisty roads or gravel trails.

What separates the WRX STI from other sports cars of its era is its versatility. Equipped with Subaru’s legendary symmetrical all-wheel drive, it offers confidence-inspiring grip and composure regardless of weather or road conditions. Its rally heritage shines through in its precise steering and robust suspension setup, which make every drive an event, whether you’re carving up a mountain road or commuting to work.

At $25,000, this generation of the WRX STI remains a bargain for enthusiasts seeking a unique driving experience. It’s also a practical choice, thanks to its four-door layout and ample trunk space, allowing owners to enjoy spirited drives without sacrificing day-to-day usability. Its cult following ensures that it remains a standout option for those who value character and capability in their sports cars.

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5

2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS

$27,500

The 2016 Chevrolet Camaro SS marked a major evolution in the lineage of Chevrolet’s flagship muscle car. With a new platform borrowed from Cadillac, the Camaro shed weight and gained a more agile, responsive character. This generation brought a sharper, sleeker design, signaling a departure from its retro styling and leaning more toward modernity. What makes it especially appealing is how much car you get for just $27,500—a price that undercuts many less capable competitors from Europe and Japan.

Driving a 2016 Camaro SS is a transformative experience. The chassis feels well-sorted, providing a level of feedback and precision that was previously unheard of in American muscle cars. This is a car that loves corners as much as it does straights, a quality that sets it apart from older generations. Chevrolet’s engineers also worked to refine the interior, bringing improved materials and technology to a cabin that once lagged behind competitors.

At this price, the Chevy Camaro SS remains one of the most accessible sports cars for enthusiasts who demand serious performance. It has developed a reputation for punching above its weight, especially when pitted against European rivals costing significantly more. Its enduring appeal as a powerful, versatile sports car makes it a favorite among those looking to maximize value without compromising capability.

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4

2015 Nissan 370Z Nismo

$27,500

The 2015 Nissan 370Z Nismo is a no-frills sports car designed for driving enthusiasts who value precision and engagement. With its aggressive styling and track-focused upgrades, the Nismo variant takes the 370Z’s performance to the next level. Priced at $27,500, it’s a compelling choice for those who want an iconic Japanese sports car without paying collector-level premiums.

What makes the Nismo edition particularly special is its enhanced focus on handling and aerodynamics. Nissan fine-tuned the suspension and added aerodynamic elements that not only improve stability but also give the car a distinctive look. The result is a machine that feels at home both on the street and at the track, offering a raw, unfiltered connection between driver and car.

The 370Z Nismo also stands out for its enduring simplicity in a world of increasingly complex sports cars. It eschews unnecessary tech and distractions, focusing instead on delivering a pure driving experience. This makes it an excellent option for enthusiasts who value the basics of performance and control.

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3

2011 Porsche Cayman S

$32,500

The 2011 Porsche Cayman S offers a taste of true sports car pedigree at a surprisingly attainable price. Renowned for its mid-engine layout and impeccable balance, the Cayman S provides a driving experience that is second to none. This model stands as a testament to Porsche’s ability to blend precision engineering with timeless design. At $32,500, it delivers a level of performance and refinement that many cars that cost twice as much struggle to match.

One of the Cayman S’s defining characteristics is its razor-sharp handling. The mid-engine placement gives the car a unique weight distribution, allowing it to feel planted and composed through even the most challenging corners. Its compact dimensions and low center of gravity further enhance its agility, making it an ideal choice for spirited drives or track days.

Beyond its driving dynamics, the Porsche Cayman S exudes luxury and quality. Its minimalist yet functional interior provides a perfect environment for drivers to focus on the road ahead. For enthusiasts seeking a high-end sports car experience without the six-figure price tag, the Cayman S remains an unbeatable option.

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2

2012 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport

$32,500

The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport represents the sweet spot in the C6 Corvette lineup, offering the perfect blend of performance and value. Positioned between the base model and the high-performance Z06, the Grand Sport delivers a well-rounded driving experience at a competitive price of $32,500. Its wide-body design and aggressive stance give it a presence that rivals much more expensive sports cars.

Behind the wheel, the Grand Sport feels every bit as thrilling as its appearance suggests. Its refined suspension and upgraded brakes provide confidence-inspiring handling, making it a capable performer on both the road and the track. Unlike some of its rivals, the Corvette Grand Sport combines raw performance with a level of comfort that makes it suitable for long-distance drives.

As an iconic American sports car, the Corvette Grand Sport carries a legacy that few competitors can match. It offers enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of automotive history without straying into supercar price territory.

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1

2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack

$32,500

The 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack is a throwback to the golden age of American muscle, offering immense performance at a price that undercuts many competitors. Priced at $32,500, this Challenger combines retro-inspired styling with modern engineering, delivering a driving experience that’s as bold as its appearance.

On the road, the Challenger R/T Scat Pack feels like a true muscle car, offering a commanding presence and a driving experience that emphasizes power and excitement. Its spacious interior and smooth ride also make it a more practical option compared to other sports cars in this segment.

What sets the Scat Pack apart is its unapologetic character. It doesn’t try to be anything other than a muscle car, and that honesty is part of its charm. For enthusiasts who want a car that makes a statement while delivering serious performance, the Challenger R/T Scat Pack is hard to beat.

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