Cheap Supercars: 10 Incredible Performance Vehicles for Under $100,000

What Makes It Special

For an additional $5,995, you can have the 70th Anniversary Edition Package for the top-tier 3LT and 3LZ models of the Corvette Stingray and Corvette Z06.

The base price of the coupe version of the 70th Anniversary Edition Corvette Stingray is $83,840, while the base price of the convertible version is $90,840. The car can be painted in either White Pearl Metallic Tri-Coat or Carbon Flash Metallic, which are included in the package.

The Satin Gray racing stripes (with the white paint) and the Satin Black racing stripes (with the black paint) are available for an extra $995 each—unique carbon-painted side mirrors, brake calipers, and external badging round out the set.

The best part about the 70th Anniversary Package for the Corvette C8 is that it doesn't change the car's performance in any way. In its fourth year of production, it retains every bit of its original excellence. The straightforward handling, robust 6.2-liter V8 (with 490 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque), and intuitive eight-speed dual-clutch automated transmission make this vehicle a joy to drive.

What Makes It Special

The Ferrari 360, or 360 Modena, is often regarded as the company's first modern car. In 1999, it debuted as the first Ferrari with an aluminum chassis. In addition, it had an electronically adjustable suspension with multiple modes of operation and multi-mode traction control.

However, the 360 was the final expression of several classic Ferrari design elements. The Dino-derived V8 engine, previously used in other Ferraris, was now 3.6 liters in displacement, producing 400 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds.

The 360 also marked the end of Ferrari's 6-speed gated manual transmission as standard equipment. The F1-inspired automated manual paddle-shift transmission was optional in the 360 but became standard in the F430.

However, a manual transmission is the way to go because it doesn't suffer from F1's reputation for being unreliable and complicated. The Ferrari 360's handling is also better suited to a manual transmission. You can find a good-condition Ferrari 360 Modena for around $90,000.

What Makes It Special

Developed to set a new standard for high-performance sports cars, focusing on providing a driving experience tailored to each driver. The Gallardo is the perfect embodiment of a practical sports vehicle. Engineers at Lamborghini followed the principle of providing adequate comfort without sacrificing the expected performance of a genuine Lamborghini vehicle to strike a balance between these two competing goals.

The powertrain of the Gallardo comprises a V10, with its five-liter displacement, double overhead camshaft four-valve design, 500 horsepower, and 376 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and gated shifter, and all-wheel drive.

Instead of the more traditional option of a V72, Lamborghini chose a 90-degree angle for the engine to limit the engine's height, which had benefits for the layout of the car and a lower center of gravity. Adopting crankpins with an 18-degree offset ensures uniform firing intervals.

Thanks to its powerful engine and ample torque, the car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 192 mph. The car is relatively stable and easily controlled when you reach top speed. This Lamborghini ranges from $55,000 to $90,000, depending on the model year and overall condition.

What Makes It Special

The V12 Vantage S succeeded the V12 Vantage in most areas worldwide and, until the arrival of the One-77, was Aston Martin's fastest road-going model.

The V12 Vantage S's AM28 engine makes 563 hp and 457 lb-ft of torque, providing seamless low- and high-rpm torque delivery. At 1000 rpm, there's more torque than the V12 Vantage by 51 lb-ft. The performance graph is consistent from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, thanks to the increased acceleration across all ratios and the seven-speed Sportshift III automated manual transmission that sends the power to the rear wheels.

The V12 Vantage S may reach 205 mph thanks to its 573 PS Aston Martin AM28 6.0-liter V12 engine with cutting-edge Bosch engine management. Aston Martin improved airflow management to boost cooling and engine performance to handle the increased power from the AM28.

The radiator can get maximum airflow thanks to the carbon fiber front grille, mesh aperture, and air ducts. Maximum cooling efficiency is achieved before air is expelled through the carbon fiber bonnet louvers.

For under $100k, you can get a V12 Vantage S, but one with a manual tranny (2017 onwards) is above this price range.

What Makes It Special

The iconic 911 received a dose of cutting-edge technology for the 2017 model year, and its twin-turbo flat-six engine outdid the preceding normally aspirated unit in terms of power.

The Carrera's 3.0-liter turbocharged flat-six engine generates 420 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The seven-speed manual transmission is a lot of fun, and the optional PDK dual-clutch automatic is the fastest and most intelligent transmission available, allowing the car to accelerate from 0 to 60 in 3.1 seconds. The new 911's twin-turbo engine is refined and loud, with plenty of oomph available immediately from idle and a surprising lack of turbo lag.

The 911 justifies its high starting price with its high level of performance and the sheer pleasure it provides behind the wheel. The Carrera models take bends with gusto; the body remains flat; the tires offer massive grip; and the all-wheel-drive variants accelerate fiercely out of corners.

With a price tag of roughly $90,000, you may own one of the most acclaimed and exhilarating sports cars ever made.

What Makes It Special

At a glance, the 2017 AMG GT S Coupe is truly impressive. Its sleek and muscular design pays tribute to the sports car look with curves and a long front hood.

Underneath that sculpted exterior is a 4.0 liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering an impressive 515 horsepower and 494 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a seven-speed clutch transmission, this GT S Coupe can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. The distinctive sound of the AMG exhaust adds to the excitement as you shift gears.

But it's not just about straight-line speed for the AMG GT S Coupe; its capabilities extend to corners, too. With rear-wheel drive and a suspension tuned for performance, it handles turns precisely and confidently.

The adaptive damping system allows for driving modes offering both cruising and aggressive track performance. Thanks to the limited-slip differential, power is distributed optimally to keep the GT S firmly planted on the road while remaining responsive.

You'll find leather upholstery and eye-catching carbon fiber accents inside the cabin. The driver-centric layout creates a sense of control; the center console and instrument cluster are angled towards the driver for a driving experience. You may find a 2017 AMG GT S Coupe for $98,000.

What Makes It Special

Because of its price tag and looks compared to a supercar such as a Lamborghini, Ferrari, or McLaren, the GTR is considered a sports car rather than a supercar. It's often called a "supercar killer," with its incredible 0–60 mph time of 2.8 seconds.

The 2017 GT-R Premium represents the most significant changes to the R35 since the model was introduced in 2007. The model's numerous updates focused on styling, features, power, performance, comfort, and sophistication.

The Nissan GT-R Premium packs sickening acceleration, state-of-the-art technology, and a unique look. The GT-R takes off so fast with so little slip that you won't even feel like the tires are doing their part. It's like a powerful, invisible force is pulling the car. This is possible thanks to its 3.8-liter 24-valve V6 engine with an output of 565 hp and 467 lb-ft of torque and standard all-wheel-drive.

Although the new GT-R feels heavy on the steering wheel, it feels firmly planted on the ground. It has a straight-up, old-school hydraulic rack-and-pinion setup that matches the tires and does a great job transmitting the road to your hands. This means you can be more aggressive when going into corners. A 2017 GT-R can go for $95,000 and up.

What Makes It Special

It's impressive how Jaguar turned a compelling, stately, and elegant coupe into a beast whose stance can shock more than many supercars. The improvements of this specialized GT version are primarily visible from the outside but also regarding performance. The GT's track prowess has been improved with several chassis and aerodynamic upgrades.

The lightweight carbon fiber rear spoiler, the aerodynamic appendages, and the new front apron stand out; this set of solutions achieves a maximum downforce of 319 pounds. The gills in the hood dissipate the hot air accumulated in the engine compartment, presiding over the supercharger on its 5.0-liter V8 engine, which generates 550 horsepower and 501 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic gearbox.

The Jaguar XKR-S GT has a top speed of 186 mph and can go from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds. Jaguar installed 398- and 380-millimeter carbon-ceramic discs with six- and four-piston monobloc calipers on each axle to stop this feline.

Inside, the class and distinction of the XKR-S remain with some sporty touches, such as bucket seats and the intensive use of Alcantara or red stitching. The Jaguar XKR-S GT's production was limited to 50 units, so you can expect to pay between $75k and $100k if you're lucky to find one for sale.

What Makes It Special

The Audi R8 is often regarded as an entry-level supercar thanks to its robust powertrain, all-wheel drive, and refined manners that offer a high-performance driving experience combined with practicality. The R8 V10 provides its passengers with a one-of-a-kind driving and social experience. This automobile is terrific since it also caters to the senses of hearing and touch.

Taking the place of the previous R-tronic dual-clutch transmission is Audi's S-tronic seven-speed dual-clutch in the 2014 R8 V10 S-tronic, mated to a Lamborghini-sourced 5.2-liter V10 that generates 550 horsepower and 398 pound-feet of torque.

The old R-tronic transmission was criticized for being difficult to shift. Still, the excellent S-tronic eliminates noticeable delays and efficiently sends power to all four wheels via Audi's legendary quattro all-wheel drive system.

The R8 V10 weighs 3,800 pounds, but it can still sprint from zero to sixty miles per hour in only 3.4 seconds and continue to a top speed of 195 mph. The R8's cabin is just massive, especially compared to the rest of the supercar market, which enhances usability and comfort. An R8 V10 can be found for under $100,000, depending on age and condition.

What Makes It Special

In 2019, Lotus introduced the mid-engine Evora GT to the North American market for the 2020 model year. A supercharged 3.5-liter V6 from the Toyota Camry cranks out 416 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque to the car's rear wheels. The Evora GT weighs just over 3,000 pounds and can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds, and has a top speed of 188 mph.

Although an automatic transmission is available, this British supercar is more enjoyable with the standard six-speed manual gearbox. Toggle the comfortable magnesium steering wheel, and you'll discover the joy of classic hydraulic steering. The six-speed manual transmission is an Aisin unit, but Lotus has completely reworked it, making the first and second gears much higher.

The Lotus Evora GT features a seven-inch Alpine infotainment screen, a backup camera of less-than-impressive quality, and no lane departure warnings. It makes the interior about as modern-minimal as it gets. Some would argue that the Evora GT is a sports car rather than a supercar, which is up for discussion. Either way, when behind the wheel of this car, one's most primal feelings are brought to the surface. You can expect to pay about $95,000 for a 2021 Lotus Evora GT.