Can't Afford The New BMW 8 Series Convertible? Here Are 8 Cheaper Alternatives

You can spend way less than $121,000 on a luxury convertible.

BMW wowed us when it first revealed the new 8 Series Coupe. Now, our jaw has gone from dropped to fallen off with the reveal of the new 8 Series Convertible. Like the coupe, the convertible will initially be available in M850i xDrive trim with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 pumping out 523 horsepower. The 8 Series Convertible is also extremely quick, with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.8 seconds - just 0.2 of a second slower than the coupe.

Pricing starts at $121,400, making it $9,500 more than the coupe. However, if all you want is a fast, luxurious convertible, there are plenty of cheaper alternatives on the used market. Since this is the BMW 8 Series, after all, we have chosen eight cheaper used alternatives.

2010-2018 Maserati GranTurismo

Although it is nowhere near as powerful or as technologically advanced as the new 8 Series, we'd argue few cars are as beautiful as the Maserati GranTurismo. Used Maserati cars tend to plummet in value, which is why used GranTurismo Convertibles can now be found for less than $40,000 on the low end. The car is powered by a Ferrari-designed 4.7-liter V8 producing 454 hp. Yes, it is not as powerful as the BMW but it sounds even better. For less than the price of the 8 Series, it is even possible to find the more hardcore MC version.

2012-2018 BMW M6 Convertible

The BMW 8 Series takes the place of the old 6 Series in BMW's lineup. Instead of buying the latest and greatest BMW, some people will be more comfortable taking enormous savings on an older model. The last generation BMW M6 Convertible, the F12, can now be found for less than $40,000 on the low end. Like the new 8 Series, the M6 is powered by a 4.4-liter V8. However, the M6 is actually more powerful with 560 hp.

2013-2014 Bentley Continental GTC

The BMW 8 Series may sit as the flagship of BMW's lineup but it still cannot compare to the prestige of a Bentley. For less than the cost of a new 8 Series, it is possible to buy a Bentley Continental GTC from around 2013 or 2014 (post facelift). Even at this price, we managed to find certified pre-owned examples with both the 500-hp 4.0-liter V8 and 567-hp 6.0-liter W12.

2011-2014 Audi R8 Spyder

The Audi R8 Spyder may not fit the same mold as the other convertibles on this list but we still like it at this price point. We found plenty of used examples with both the 4.2-liter V8 and 5.2-liter V10 with the automatic and manual transmission. Obviously, we prefer the gated manual, though the dual-clutch transmission in the 2014-and-later cars is pretty competent. Even at this price, we managed to find an R8 GT Spyder, which has a 560-hp version of the glorious V10 engine.

2013-2014 Porsche 911 Turbo / Turbo S Cabriolet

Most 911 variants tend to hold their value extremely well but the Turbo models are the lone exception. We found plenty of 911 Turbo and Turbo S Cabrio models from the 991.1 generation for less than the price of a new 8 Series. This generation 911 Turbo packed 520 hp from a 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six. The Turbo S bumped the power up to 560 hp going out through a seven-speed PDK transmission. While not as luxurious as the 8 Series, the 911 Turbo Cabriolet can hit 60 mph in under three seconds, making it the quickest on this list.

2011-2015 Jaguar XKR And XKR-S Convertible

Few cars depreciate as quickly as a Jaguar, which is great news if you are in the market for a used one. The Jaguar XKR Convertible is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine pumping out 510 hp. We also found several examples of the drop-top XKR-S, which produces 550 hp. We love the old-school styling of the XK and believe it is one of the prettiest cars on this list.

2006-2015 Aston Martin DB9 Volante

While we are on the subject of pretty cars, how about the Aston Martin DB9. Yes, for less than the price of a new BMW you could have a bonafide Aston Martin. By the end of the DB9's life, the 6.0-liter V12 produced 510 hp. The newer DB9 examples can command up to $120,000 but the older models can be found for less than $40,000.

2016-2017 Mercedes-AMG SL63 And SL65 Roadster

If you don't feel like waiting for the M version of the BMW 8 Series, just turn your attention to AMG. For less than the M850i, you can get either an SL63 or SL65 AMG Roadster. The SL63 is powered by a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 577 hp. We also found a few examples of the SL65, which packs a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 producing 621 hp. The SL63 can be found starting at around $85,000 for the most recent, facelifted R231 model, while the SL65 is a bit more expensive.

Can’t Afford A Rolls-Royce Cullinan? Here Are 5 Cheaper Alternatives

The world’s most expensive SUV leaves plenty of cheaper options.

Rolls-Royce’s SUV, the Cullinan, is finally here. At $325,000 it instantly becomes the most expensive SUV in the world. For that price, you get a 6.75-liter V12 engine producing 563 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Go crazy with the options list and the price can go much higher. If you don’t have that kind of cash, don’t worry, because there are plenty of less expensive luxury SUVs on the new and used markets. We've compiled a list of our five favorite options both used and brand-new.

Range Rover SVAutobiography

The Cullinan may be the most luxurious SUV on the planet, but is it really worth twice as much as a Range Rover SVAutobiography? Even a brand-new SVAutobiography starts at $177,000. Opt for a used one, and the price can go as low as around $140,000. For that price, it’s not like you are getting a bare-bones interior. It still features reclining captain’s chairs in the rear complete with infotainment screens. Up front, the Range Rover’s 5.0-liter supercharged V8 is nearly as powerful as the Rolls’ V12, with 557 hp on tap.

Mercedes G550 4x42

We doubt many owners will actually take their $325,000 SUV off-road. Nonetheless, Rolls-Royce made sure to point out the Cullinan can handle itself over rough terrain. The Cullinan may be capable off-road, but it pails in comparison to the Mercedes G550 4x4 Squared. This off-road beast is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 416 hp. It may not be as powerful as the Cullinan, but with portal axels and three locking differentials, it is superior when the road gets rocky. The 4x4 Squared now starts at around $245,000 on the used market.

Bentley Bentayga

We never thought we’d see the Bentley Bentayga appear on this side of a cheaper alternatives list. At $229,000, the 600-hp W12-powered Bentayga doesn’t win a price war with many other vehicles. Still, for roughly $100,000 less the Bentley does represent an enormous price savings over the Rolls-Royce. The Rolls may be slightly more luxurious, but the Bentayga is faster and more powerful. If you can live with only 542 hp, you can get a new Bentayga V8 for less than $170,000.

Rolls-Royce Phantom

It looks like the Cullinan has fully embraced the look and feel of a Rolls-Royce, but what was wrong with a Phantom? The Phantom already had a commanding ride height, and tons of space for occupants. SUVs are all about practically, which goes out the window with a $325,000 price tag. Why not save a bunch of money, and just get a used Phantom instead? Early 2004 and 2005 models can be found for less than $100,000, and offer a similar level of luxury, albeit with some dated infotainment.

Aftermarket Alternatives

Our final cheaper alternative may be the smartest option on our list. Cullinan buyers want something spacious, with sumptuous luxury, so why not buy a custom SUV from one of the many aftermarket companies out there? We found used examples from companies like Lexani and Becker, all of which cost less than a new Cullinan. These vehicles can be based on models ranging from Escalades and Excursions to Mercedes Sprinter Vans. They may not carry the same level of prestige on the outside, but they do have reclining seats and televisions on the inside.

Can't Afford The Range Rover Velar? Here Are Some Cheaper Alternatives

The Velar may be stunning, but there are cheaper ways to have a unique SUV.

The massive demand for SUVs has certainly helped Land Rover, a company that exclusively sells utility vehicles, to expand its lineup with new models like the Range Rover Velar. While we are smitten with the new luxury SUV, it certainly isn't cheap. Even the base P250 version starts at nearly $50,000. That seems like a lot of money for a 2.0-liter 247 horsepower turbocharged SUV. Fully-loaded Velar models can cost over $90,000 and we think that there are plenty of alternatives on the market worthy of your attention.

BMW X6M

Land Rover is reportedly working on an SVR version of the Velar, but for now the most powerful version is a 380-hp supercharged V6. Our first car not only blows that power figure out of the water, it pretty much invented the Coupe-SUV segment. That's right, it is now possible to buy a BMW X6 M for well under $50,000. We found a few examples of the refreshed X6 M within budget, but the first generation model is the better value. We saw examples of the original X6 M for under $30,000. The X6 M was powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 555 hp. Power was upped to 567 hp in 2015 and the transmission gained two extra gears for a total of eight.

Range Rover Sport

The Velar might be the hottest new model in the Range Rover lineup, but we shouldn't forget the original expansion of the Range Rover line, the Range Rover Sport. For less than the price of a four-cylinder Velar, we found examples of the latest body-style Range Rover Sport with the Supercharged V6 and V8 engines. Most of the examples we found were 2014 models, which was the first year of the new-look Range Rover Sport. The Supercharged V6 produced 340 hp while the V8 put out a whopping 510 hp. Most examples that we found were around $45,000 with the V6, although we did find two V8 models with 85,000 and 90,000 miles on their odometers.

Infiniti FX

The supercharged V6 in the Range Rover Sport is a great option, but we wouldn't mind having a big V8. Our next cheap alternative is one of the most unique V8 engines ever produced, because it was only ever put into one car. The Infiniti FX was eventually renamed the QX70 and was later discontinued. Before it was killed off, Infiniti gifted the FX SUV with a 5.0-liter V8 that was derived from an LMP3 race car. In the FX50, this V8 produced 390 hp. We found high mileage examples for less than $20,000, with pristine examples commanding around $30,000. The FX50 is one of the ultimate sleeper cars because most people have forgotten that it even existed.

Isuzu VehiCross

The next car on our list is the oldest and cheapest alternative. The Isuzu VehiCross has mostly been forgotten, but we still think that is has value as a collector car. Old SUVs like the Jeep Wagoneer have been rising in value, and we think that the VehiCross is due to be worth more than it is now. The most expensive one we could find was around $15,000, but most can be purchased for less than $10,000. The VehiCross was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 with 210 hp, which was a lot at the time. The VehiCross is a solid off-roader thanks to its advanced Torque On Demand system. The VehiCross is rare with only 4,153 units ever produced and we'd love to have one.

Ford Edge ST

Our final cheap alternative is the only new model on our list. Even though the new Ford Edge ST isn't even on sale yet and hasn't had any time to depreciate, we still like it as a cheap alternative to a new Velar. Ford hasn't released pricing yet, but it should be close to the current Edge Sport, which costs $40,675. This is around $10,000 less than a base Velar, and the Edge ST will have two extra cylinders, an extra turbo, and 335 hp (88 more than the Velar). Of course, the Edge ST cannot match the Velar on prestige, but it will be a more affordable car to maintain and an all-around great SUV.

Can't Afford A New Mercedes GLE? Here Are 7 Cheaper Alternatives

Who says new is always better?

The recently revealed 2020 Mercedes GLE is a big leap forward from its predecessor. Along with an all-new look, the GLE gains a new 255-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo option in place of the 3.0-liter V6, as well as a new inline-six option with a 48-volt system producing a total of 362 hp. Those power changes are accompanied by a new nine-speed automatic transmission, an available third-row seat, and an all-new interior. This update was much needed, as the GLE was one of the most outdated vehicles in the Mercedes lineup.

We still don't know exactly how much the new GLE will cost, be we assume it will be close to the outgoing car's starting price of around $55,000. The GLE may be an impressive SUV, but $55,000 is a lot of money. For those who simply can't afford such an expensive SUV, don't worry, because we have seven equally awesome used alternatives.

2007-2015 Mercedes ML63 AMG

Often on these lists, we like to recommend the older version of the more expensive new car, and this no exception. The GLE replaced the ML class when Mercedes switched to the 'GL' naming scheme for its SUVs. The AMG Division will eventually get its hands on the new GLE, but why not spend a lot less on a used ML63 AMG?

Up until 2011, the ML63 was powered by a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 producing 510 hp. This engine was later replaced by a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 518 hp. You could wait for the new GLE63, but it will likely cost over $100,000 while the old ML63 can be found ranging from $15,000 to $45,000.

2010-2013 BMW X5 M

The second high-performance German SUV on our list is the BMW X5 M. A used M car may not be as easy to maintain as a new, non-AMG Mercedes, but life is too short to worry about maintenance bills. We found several original X5 M examples selling from $20,000 to $40,000. This beast of an SUV is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 from the M5 pumping out 555 hp. For those who don't mind high mileage, we also found a few examples of next-generation X5 M, which bumped the power up to 567 hp.

2011-2017 Porsche Cayenne

Finishing off our trifecta of German luxury SUVs is the Porsche Cayenne. It truly doesn't matter which Cayenne model you choose, because they are all great. For this budget, we'd stick to a second generation model which began in 2011. Prices begin as low as around $20,000 for high mileage base and S models, while GTS and Turbo models can attract around $50,000. A 500-hp Cayenne Turbo for $50k sounds pretty good to us.

2016-2019 Volvo XC90

Not everyone buying an SUV wants it to double as a sports car, which is why we adore the Volvo XC90. Unlike some of the other SUVs on this list, the XC90's only priority is luxury. It doesn't have crazy paddle shifters or track modes, but it does have a lovely 2.0-liter twin-charged four-cylinder producing 316 hp. Sadly, the 400-hp T8 hybrid isn't available for less than the price of a new GLE but T5 and T6 variants start at around $30,000 on the used market.

2014-2016 Range Rover Sport

Why settle for even the most powerful 362-hp Mercedes GLE, when for much less you could get a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 with 510 hp? We found used, supercharged Range Rover Sport examples for around $38,000 to $50,000 depending on mileage and year. The lesser V6 supercharged engine can be found for even less and still produces a healthy 340 hp.

2012-2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8

Ever since Jeep decided to stuff a 707-hp Hellcat engine into the Grand Cherokee, it's all anyone has been able to talk about. This shouldn't detract from the original Grand Cherokee SRT-8, which is still an incredible SUV. We recommend getting the 2012 facelifted model, which is powered by a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 producing 470 hp. High mileage examples can now be found for less than $20,000, with newer low mileage examples approaching $50,000.

2011-2017 Volkswagen Touareg

Though the Volkswagen Touareg may not be the most exciting SUV on this list, we once called it the greatest SUV that has ever been built. Just think about it - the Toureg was so well engineered, it eventually became the platform for the Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q7, Bentley Bentayga, and Lamborghini Urus. The Touareg itself was powered by either a 3.6-liter V6 with 280 hp or a 3.0-liter diesel producing 240 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Prices range starting at just $10,000 for used second generation models, making the Touareg the most affordable SUV on this list.

Can't Afford The Hyundai Veloster N? Here Are Five Cheaper Alternatives

Though it is quite affordable, the Veloster N can't match the value of a used hot hatch.

Hot hatchbacks are meant to be an affordable way for car enthusiasts to buy a fast, practical car. As automakers continue to pump out limited-run, high-performance hot hatches, prices continue to get out of control. Hyundai is looking to break the cycle of increasing hot hatch prices with its new Veloster N. The base 250 horsepower version starts at just $26,900 (plus an $885 freight charge) while the more powerful 275 hp Performance pack version starts at a still affordable $29,000.

Compared to more powerful hot hatches like the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R, the Hyundai Veloster N is a relative bargain. Still, some buyers out there may not be able to afford a brand-new car like the Veloster N, so we wanted to propose five cheaper used alternatives.

2008 Volkswagen R32

Two hundred and fifty horsepower from the Veloster N is a pretty solid number in 2018, but our first used option packed the same amount of power a decade ago. The Volkswagen R32 was sold for just two model years in the US, 2004 and 2008. We'd like to focus on the 2008 fifth-generation model, which was powered by a 3.2-liter VR6 engine sending 250 hp to all four wheels through a six-speed DSG transmission. Unfortunately, a manual transmission was not available for America.

Volkswagen only built 5,000 R32s in total in 2008, making it quite a rare car. Despite this, used models can be found between $8,000 and $20,000. The R32 was eventually replaced by the more powerful, turbocharged Golf R, though we prefer the amazing sound of the naturally aspirated VR6 engine.

1998-2000 BMW M Coupe

This may be our last chance to recommend buying a BMW M Coupe as an "affordable" collector. M Coupe prices have been skyrocketing, especially if you have a later S54-power model from 2001-2002. The earlier S52 models from 1998-2000 can still be found for between $20,000 to $25,000. Of course, pristine examples can command more than double this amount.

The early BMW M Coupe was powered by a 3.2-liter inline-six producing 240 hp going out to a five-speed manual transmission. The car's shape is a bit love-hate, but we fall on the love side. It may not have the rear seats of the Veloster N, but the M Coupe does have a proper RWD sports car layout and is extremely collectible. Buy one now before prices become completely out of control.

2015 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45

Yes, we know the Mercedes GLA is an SUV, not a hatchback. However, when the GLA is in its faster, lower AMG 45 form, it actually appears more like a hatchback than an SUV. We simply couldn't believe how cheap the GLA 45 and its sedan sibling, the CLA 45, have become on the used market. It is now possible to buy a first model year (2015) GLA 45 for as little as $25,000 on the used market. You probably won't find a certified pre-owned example at that price, but you'll still get a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine pumping out 345 hp through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

2012-2013 Audi TT RS

The Audi TT RS was a car that almost didn't come to the US. Thanks to an internet petition, Audi decided to import just 1,407 examples into the US in 2012 and 2013 - all coupes with the six-speed manual transmission. All TT RS models are powered by a unique 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, which produces 335 hp. Only higher mileage examples can be found at around $25,000 because the TT RS has held its value extremely well due to its rarity. It may not be as practical as a hot hatch, but it does have two rear seats and a large hatch-style trunk.

2013-2015 Mini Coupe JCW

If funky looks are what you're after, why not take a gander at the Mini Coupe. Mini built the Coupe from 2011 to 2015 and even offered a hardcore John Cooper Works Version. The Mini Coupe JCW was powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 208 hp going out to a six-speed manual transmission. It may not be as powerful as the Veloster N but the Mini cars have their own way of being fun to drive without being incredibly powerful.

The Coupe was an interesting experiment for Mini by offering a two-seater version of the classic Cooper, though the experiment clearly didn't last long. Since the Mini Coupe is such an obscure model, JCW versions can be found between $15,000 and $20,000 with low miles.

Can't Afford The New Kia Stinger? Here Are Some Cheaper Alternatives

It's amazing that we live in a time when a Kia may not be the most affordable option.

The new Kia Stinger is a shockingly good value with a starting price of around $32,000. The Stinger enters the market with almost no competition at its price, but some people still may not feel comfortable spending so much on an unproven model. We absolutely endorse the Kia Stinger, but the fully-loaded twin-turbo V6 model will cost up to around $51,000. This made us wonder, could we find five amazing used alternatives that were all available for less than the Stinger's $32,000 base price?

One of the issues that keeps coming up with the Stinger, is the fact that it has a Kia badge. We think that people need to get over the fact that Kia used to build some less than exciting cars, but for those who simply can't cope with this fact, we have an alternative. You won't have to worry about people judging you based on your car's badge with our first choice, the Porsche Panamera. We were staggered to find so many of these cars for less than $30,000. These weren't just base models either. We found plenty of S and 4S models with less than 100,000 miles. The Panamera S and 4S came with a 4.8-liter V8 with 400 hp, which is more than the Stinger. Although, you will have to deal with the looks of the original Panamera.

You won't have to worry about oozing style in our next choice, the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. BMW was a bit late to the four-door-coupe market, but it definitely nailed it with this gorgeous model. For less than $30,000, we found plenty of 640 and 650 models in the four-door Gran Coupe body style. The 640i came with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six with 315 hp. This may be less potent than the V6 in the Stinger, but we also found 650 models, which came with a 445 hp 4.4-liter V8 under the hood. Sadly, we couldn't find a M6 Gran Coupe within the budget, but this is still a lot of BMW for less than $30,000.

The 6 Series is a great car, but there may be speed freaks out there who want a little more performance for their $30,000. We found several examples of the Mercedes CLS 550, as new as 2014, for less than $30,000. The CLS 550 came with a 4.7-liter V8 with 402 hp going out to RWD or 4Matic AWD. If that's not enough, we also found the previous generation CLS in the more powerful AMG trim. The CLS 63 AMG came with a hand-built 6.2-liter V8, which pumped out 507 hp. It may not have the affordable maintenance of the Kia, but it's amazing to think that a powerful AMG Mercedes can now be had for the same money.

Many of the people who buy the Kia Stinger will do so for its large proportions and practical lift-back hatch, rather than all-out performance. We wanted to include another practical choice on the list, the Audi A7. We still believe that the original design of the A7 is one of the best that Audi has ever come up with, and they can now be had for less than $30,000. Like the Stinger, the A7 comes with AWD and a large, lift-back hatch area to place large objects. The A7 may not be able to match the output of the V6 Stinger, but it does produce a healthy 310 hp from a 3.0-liter supercharged V6.

The final car on our list is our budget option, the Volkswagen CC. This was the first car to bring the four-door-coupe trend to an affordable level. The CC was offered with two engine options, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and the rare 3.6-liter VR6 with AWD. The 2.0-liter model sent 200 hp to the front wheels only, but did come with an optional six-speed manual transmission. Those who could live without the third pedal could opt for the VR6 model, which pumped out 280 hp to 4Motion AWD. The Volkswagen CC is easily the most affordable Stinger alternative on the list, with prices that are well below $10,000 on the low end.

Can't Afford A New Toyota 86? Here Are 7 Cheaper Alternatives

Even an affordable sports car can have cheaper alternatives.

The Toyota 86 (and its Subaru BRZ twin) are heralded as "affordable" sports cars. With starting prices of $26,455 and $25,595 respectively, the Toyobaru twins are reasonably priced, but even this budget may be too high for first-time car buyers. Opt for the sportier Toyota 86 TRD Edition or Subaru BRZ tS, and the price easily approaches $35,000. Everyone deserves a sports car, no matter their budget. That is why we have come up with seven cheaper 86/BRZ alternatives on the used market.

C6 Chevy Corvette

For less than $20,000, most people don't expect their sports car to offer heart-stopping straight-line performance. The 86 and BRZ only produce 205 horsepower from a 2.0-liter flat-four, but a used C6 generation Corvette produces nearly double this figure. We found plenty of C6 generation models for less than $20,000, all powered by a 6.0-liter LS2 V8 pumping out 400 hp. Who said affordable sports cars had to be slow?

Nissan 370Z

We are eagerly awaiting Nissan's replacement for the 370Z, but the current car is still remarkably fun to drive. The 370Z is the second most powerful car on this list, courtesy of its 3.7-liter 332-hp V6. Because it has been on the market since 2009, prices are now extremely affordable and can be found for as little as $13,000. It may lack the rear seats of the 86 and BRZ, but it makes up for it with an extra 127 hp.

Porsche Cayman

Though it may seem hard to believe, you can actually buy a used Porsche for less than the price of a new Toyota. The Porsche Cayman may have two fewer seats than the Toyota or Subaru, but it does have an extra trunk up front. We found first-generation Cayman and Cayman S models for less than $20,000, both of which are more powerful than the 86 twins. The base Cayman is powered by a 2.7-liter 245-hp flat-six, while the S has a larger 3.4-liter engine with 295 hp. Aside from the power, the Cayman is considered one of the best driver's cars for any money with its mid-engine layout and razor-sharp Porsche handling and chassis balance.

BMW 135i

The BMW 3 Series has grown beyond its roots as a nimble sports coupe as it spawned the 4 Series, but the 1 Series picked up the fun, small-car mantle. The lesser 128i was no slouch with a 230-hp 3.0-liter inline-six, but we'd opt for the 135i with the 300-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six. It may cost a lot more to maintain than a new Toyota, but the extra power and tunability may be worth it for some people. Cheaper 135i models are powered by a twin-turbo N54 inline-six, but we suggest spending a bit more and opting for the twin-scroll N55 engine found on 2011 and newer models. Do some digging, and you can even find the 320-hp 135 is for less than $25,000.

Honda S2000

Unlike the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ, the Honda S2000 wasn't build to be an "affordable" sports car. When it was new, the S2000 was priced around $35,000, but used prices have sunk well below $20,000. Even though it came out way back in 2000, the S2000, with its 2.0-liter 240 hp inline-four, is still more powerful than the 86 twins. The S2000 wasn't just more potent, it revved to 9,000 rpm in the AP1 generation and a still-impressive 8,200 rpm in the AP2 generation.

NC Mazda MX-5 Miata

The word 'Miata' stands for "Miata is always the answer." Just kidding, it actually means "reward" in Old High German. Rewarding is exactly the word we would use to describe driving a Mazda Miata. A used current-generation ND Miata can be found for as little as $17,000, but the previous NC generation from 2006 to 2015 is the best bargain at the moment. The NC was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with around 160 hp. Early examples with high mileage can be found for as little as around $6,000, but $10,000 is enough to buy a really nice one.

Scion FR-S

When the 86 twins first arrived in the US, they were sold as the Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S. When Toyota discontinued the Scion brand, it took the FR-S and rebadged it as the 86. If you can't afford a new 86 or BRZ, just get a used FR-S. Prices have sunk to around $10,000 on the low end, which is less than half the price of a new 86. You may be losing an extra 5 hp, but it is worth it to pay half the price.