by John Tallodi
Supercars are the extroverts of the motoring world. They often hog the limelight thanks to their outlandish designs and crazy power, and performance figures. But the ownership experience is also one of extremes, starting with the pricing. These days, most entry-level McLarens, Lamborghinis, or Ferraris will set you back over $250,000 – and that's before you factor in the endless customization options.
Used supercars can also command big prices, and the ones that don't are likely to present you with a massive deferred maintenance bill as soon as you take ownership. But technology has moved in leaps and bounds in recent years, and today's sports cars often deliver a very similar experience for far less outlay. We picked five of the best, most reliable used sports cars available for $50,000 or less that still give you that supercar feel.
This list is ordered alphabetically. To qualify, the cars here had to be available for close to $50,000 and provide some of the experience you would normally get from a supercar. All prices quoted exclude taxes and destination charges unless otherwise stated.
Audi R8 Gen I
2007–2015
The Audi R8 was a superb sports car from the most unlikely auto manufacturer. Audi was no stranger to building fast cars, but most of its models were turbocharged front- or all-wheel drive sedans and estates that were quick in a straight line, but understeered their way around corners. The mid-engined R8 was a completely different vehicle. It still had all-wheel drive, but its mid-engined layout and high-revving naturally aspirated V8 gave it the kind of handling, power delivery, and soundtrack you'd expect from Lamborghini or Maserati.
The R8 was, in fact, a development of the Lamborghini Gallardo, but early versions used the 4.2-liter V8 from the impressive B7 RS4, and these are now becoming highly sought after. There are still some early cars out there for around the $50,000 price point, but they won't stay at that price for long. Reliability levels have proven to be good, and while servicing isn't as cheap as an Audi sedan, parts are plentiful, and most cars have been well cared for.
There are a handful of V10 models that dip down into our budget from time to time, but make sure you don't buy a lemon and, ask for a full service history. Another bit of advice that also applies to all the models here is to get your prospective purchase checked over by a knowledgeable friend or mechanic. Especially if you aren't overly familiar with the make and model.
BMW i8
2014–2020
For supercar-rivaling road presence, the BMW i8 is a great choice. It was released 11 years ago, yet it looks as fresh as ever. The gullwing doors, crazy swooping lines, and hybrid powertrain may as well be from a contemporary supercar, but the pricing certainly isn't. The earliest 2014 models start at $35,000, and $50,000 will get you a low-mileage 2016 coupe. That is a lot of car for the money, and seeing as this is only BMW's second ever mid-engined offering, it is surely destined for desirable classic status.
The engine may be just a 1.5-liter three-cylinder, but with the aid of turbocharging and two electric motors, it is still very quick. It's also more practical than it looks. The hybrid layout allows for all-electric driving for short distances, and you even get a pair of small rear seats if you need some extra storage space or need to drop the kids off at school. Have a SOH test done on the battery pack before you buy to ensure that it is still in good shape; otherwise, running costs are very reasonable.
Jaguar F-Type V8
2014–2024
When it comes to powerful V8s, we have it better than just about anywhere else in the world. Corvettes may be the first affordable sports cars that come to mind, but for that exotic flavor, the Jaguar F-Type R takes the win. In supercharged V8 form, it is a loud and raucous sports car that backs up its stunning looks with serious performance. Convertible models were also offered alongside the coupes, as well as V6-powered alternatives. We'd suggest the V8s for their added aural drama, but if your budget doesn't quite stretch that far, a supercharged V6 is no hardship to own.
Read the full article on CarBuzz
This article originally appeared on CarBuzz and is republished here with permission.
