Can't Afford The 2019 BMW 8 Series? Here Are 8 Cheaper Super Coupes

You don't need to spend six figures to buy a gorgeous luxury coupe.

BMW finally pulled the wraps off of its revived 8 Series coupe in M850i xDrive trim. The M850i will utilize a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque going out through an eight-speed automatic. With a 4,478 pound curb weight, 0-60 mph will take just 3.6 seconds. All of this sounds impressive, but it all comes at a cost. US pricing has yet to be announced, but based on an online configurator for Europe, we can assume the 8 Series will be around $130,000. If you can't afford that, here are eight cheaper alternatives.

2012 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG

The twin-turbo V8 found in the new 8 Series is quiet impressive, but for less than $100,000, there are even more exotic options out there. Thanks to classic German car depreciation, we found several examples of the Mercedes CL65 AMG well under $85,000. The most recent version of the CL65 was powered by a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 producing 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque going out to a five-speed automatic. Why settle for a V8, when you could have a V12?

Aston Martin DB9

BMW is one of the most highly coveted marques in the auto industry, but it pales in comparison to Aston Martin. For less than the price of a new 8 Series, you can get an Aston Martin DB9. Though less powerful than the BMW, the Aston Martin sounds amazing thanks to its 510-hp 6.0-liter V12 engine. Though most DB9 models were fitted with a six-speed automatic, a six-speed manual was also available so enthusiast's can rejoice.

Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

Keeping on the theme of V12 engines, we have the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. Though it is far from the prettiest Ferrari, the 612 is one of the best values on the pre-owned Ferrari market. Under the hood sits a hand-built 5.8-liter V12 producing 540 hp. In order to keep the budget under $100,000, you'll have to buy a 612 with the six-speed automatic. A six-speed manual was offered, but values have skyrocketed to around three times as much.

Bentley Continental GT

While it's possible to buy a pre-facelift Bentley Continental GT with the 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12, we prefer the refreshed model with the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. This engine is shared with many Audi RS models, and produces 500 hp. Though it won't be as quick as the 8 Series, the Bentley will likely be quieter and more comfortable.

Jaguar XKR-S

The twin-turbochargers in the new 8 Series make it extremely powerful, though not as powerful as the Jaguar XKR-S. The XKR-S uses a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 producing 550 hp. It is also one of the most affordable cars on our list with prices starting at under $60,000 on the used market.

Maserati Gran Turismo

Though it is the least powerful modern car on our list, the Maserati Gran Turismo is no slouch. You can now buy a 2015 Gran Turismo MC, which produces 454 hp from its 4.7-liter V8 for less than $100,000. The power may not be a lot compared to other cars here, but the Gran Turimso makes up for it with sexy looks and a throaty exhaust sound. Older models can be found for as little as $30,000.

Porsche 911 Turbo (991.1-gen)

The Porsche 911 may "only" have a flat-six engine, but for less than $100,000 you can now buy a 991.1 generation Turbo. The 991.1 generation car produced 520 hp from its 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six. Though it may be slightly less powerful than the BMW, the Porsche PDK dual-clutch helps the 911 rocket to 60 mph in under three seconds.

BMW 8 Series 850i

The new M850i picks up where the old 850i left off. Though it is much slower than the new car, the old 8 Series has become somewhat of a collectible. The 850i came powered by a 5.0-liter V12 producing 296 hp. It may not have supercar speed, but it doesn't have a supercar price tag either. We found used 850i models with the six-speed manual transmission for less than $30,000.

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 The New Kia K900? Here Are Some Cheaper Luxury Sedans

The Kia K900 is a highly impressive luxury sedan, but what could you get on the used market instead?

As much as we loved the Kia K900 when we reviewed it a few years ago, we never would have predicted Kia would give the car a second generation. Revealed at the 2018 New York Auto Show, the 2019 Kia K900 takes everything we loved about the old K900 and wraps it up in a more handsome body. Pricing has not been announced, but we expect the new car to be priced close to the current car's base price of around $50,000. Still, this is a lot for a Kia, and there are plenty of options on the used market if you prefer a car from a different brand.

Audi A8

Not impressed by Kia's flagship for $50,000? How about Audi's top-of-the-line luxury sedan for the same money? This isn't just a run of the mill A8, this is the performance-oriented S8. We found S8 examples as new as 2014 (with as little as 25,000 miles on the odometer) for less than a new K900. A base K900 is powered by a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 borrowed from the Kia Stinger, producing 365 horsepower. The S8 produces a whopping 520 hp from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. How's that for a performance bargain?

Alpina B7

Next up we have another German flagship sedan: this time from BMW. Like with the S8, this is no ordinary 7 Series. The F01 generation Alpina B7 was built from 2011 to 2013, and prices have plummeted well below the $50,000 mark. BMW's V12 was deemed too heavy for the B7, so Alpina used the M5's 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8. Total output is 540 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque going out to RWD or AWD. We found several short and long wheelbase models available, all with fairly low mileage.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Part of the reason why we love the K900 so much is that it offers 80% of the Mercedes S-Class experience for around 50% of the price. Though why settle for an imitation when you can afford the real thing? If you are willing to go back a few model years (around 2014 to 2015), you can afford an S-Class for the same price as a new K900. A 2015 S550 is powered by a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 with 449 hp. The Kia offers amazing materials and features for a $50,000 car, but an S-Class for the same money easily tops it on premium feel and prestige.

Jaguar XJ

The German sedans on this list all have their advantages, but they are very predictable. The next car on our list, the Jaguar XJ, is more of a wild card. People seem to forget about the XJ because it has been on the market since 2009. Not only did we find plenty of XJ examples for less than $50,000, we even found a few XJR models for under $40,000. The XJR is the most power car on this list with a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 pumping out 550 hp. If you want your large luxury sedan to drive like a sports car, the XJR is the best option.

So far, it may sound like we are trying to talk people out of buying a Kia K900. On the contrary, we believe the K900 is the ultimate used car bargain. In our past research, we've found used K900 (and Hyundai Equus) models for less than $25,000 with a certified pre-owned warranty. These weren't just the base 3.8-liter V6 models, we found the 5.0-liter 429 hp V8 ones as well. A $50,000 Kia may not make sense to a lot of people, but a $25,000 Kia with the luxury of a $100,000 car sounds pretty good.