The Nissan GT-R is a performance powerhouse, rocketing from 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 196 mph in R35 guise. They don’t come cheap, though, so if a GT-R is out of budget, here are 10 cheap sports cars that would give the Nissan a serious run for its money.
Car Gurus states that the average price of a used Nissan GT-R in the U.S. is around $95,156, but the price can vary depending on the model year, condition, and other factors. For that price, it’s entirely possible to find several impressive and enjoyable sports cars that can keep up with the Nissan R35 GT-R.
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General vehicle information and performance data have been sourced from various automakers and other authoritative sources, including Car Gurus, J.D. Power, and Kelley Blue Book. This list is sorted by top speed from lowest to highest.
10
Audi RS5 (2018-Present)
Top Speed: 174 MPH
The Audi RS5 is a great alternative to the Nissan GT-R, especially if you’re seeking exceptional performance, all-wheel drive, and luxury at a more reasonable price. While the GT-R is more of a pure, track-focused sports car with immense power and handling, the RS5 offers a more well-rounded package that balances luxury, comfort, and performance.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
2.9-Liter Twin-Turbo V6 |
|
Transmission |
8-Speed Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
444 HP |
|
Torque |
443 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
All-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
3.5 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
174 MPH (Vorsprung Versions) |
|
Used Pricing (KBB Fair Purchase Price National Average) |
$33,502 (2018 Audi RS5 Coupe) |
(Data was collected from Audi)
The Audi RS5 makes a compelling choice because it can handle both daily driving and occasional performance thrills while still keeping pace with the GT-R in terms of speed. The RS5 combines the best of both worlds, offering sports car performance while still maintaining the luxury and sophistication that Audi is known for.
9
Porsche 911 Carrera (991, 2012-2019)
Top Speed: 180 MPH
The Porsche 991 Carrera is a great alternative to the Nissan GT-R if you prioritize driving purity, handling balance, and luxury while still enjoying incredible performance. Its legendary handling, rear-engine layout, and superior interior quality offer a more refined driving experience, making it a versatile sports car for both performance and daily usability.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
3.4-Liter Boxer 6 |
|
Transmission |
7-Speed Manual |
|
Horsepower |
344 HP |
|
Torque |
287 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
4.8 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
180 MPH |
|
Used Pricing (KBB Fair Purchase Price National Average) |
$55,214 (2012 Porsche 911 Carrera 991 Coupe) |
(Data was collected from Porsche)
While both cars are known for their incredible performance, the 991 Carrera offers a different driving experience, combining refinement, balance, and versatility, making it a strong contender against the GT-R.
The 991 Carrera also offers a significantly more luxurious and refined interior compared to the GT-R, making it a much more comfortable and premium place to spend time.
8
Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (2020-Present)
Top Speed: 180 MPH
The Ford Shelby GT500 is a strong alternative to the Nissan GT-R for several reasons. It’s a high-performance car that offers raw power, an engaging driving experience, and a more aggressive aesthetic at a relatively lower price point.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
5.2-Liter Supercharged V8 |
|
Transmission |
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
760 HP |
|
Torque |
625 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
3.3 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
180 MPH |
|
Used Pricing (J.D. Power Average Price Paid) |
$75,925 (2020 Ford Mustang Coupe Shelby GT500) |
(Data was collected from Ford)
If you’re someone who loves big power, aggressive styling, and straight-line performance, the GT500 provides more horsepower per dollar that the GT-R. It’s great value for those seeking a high-performance car that can still be used for daily driving, while delivering excitement on the road and track.
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7
Maserati GranTurismo Sport (2007-2019)
Top Speed: 186 MPH
The Maserati GranTurismo Sport is an intriguing alternative to the Nissan GT-R, especially if you’re seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and Italian design. While the GT-R is more of a tech-heavy, track-focused car built for blistering acceleration, the GranTurismo Sport offers a more emotional, luxurious grand touring experience with impressive performance capabilities.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
4.7-Liter V8 |
|
Transmission |
6-Speed ZF Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
454 HP |
|
Torque |
383 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
4.6 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
186 MPH |
|
Used Pricing (KBB Fair Purchase Price National Average) |
$67,423 (2019 Maserati GranTurismo Sport) |
(Data was collected from Maserati)
A luxurious grand tourer with Italian flair, the GranTurismo Sport offers an engaging driving experience and beautiful design while still delivering impressive performance. It offers a balanced, emotional ride with a focus on comfort, elegance, and a beautiful exhaust note, making it ideal if you want a high-performance car without compromising on luxury.
6
Jaguar F-Type R (2014-Present)
Top Speed: 186 MPH
The Jaguar F-Type R is an excellent alternative to the Nissan GT-R, particularly if you’re seeking a more emotionally engaging, luxurious driving experience while still maintaining strong performance capabilities. With its supercharged V8, rear-wheel drive dynamics, stunning design, and more refined interior, the F-Type R offers a sense of prestige and luxury the GT-R can’t match.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
5.0-Liter Supercharged V8 |
|
Transmission |
8-Speed Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
550 HP |
|
Torque |
502 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
3.9 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
186 MPH |
|
Used Pricing (KBB Fair Purchase Price National Average) |
$34,532 (2015 Jaguar F-Type R Coupe) |
(Data was collected from Jaguar)
While the GT-R excels in terms of precision, performance technology, and track-ready capabilities, the F-Type R offers a more well-rounded package. It blends superb driving dynamics with luxury, style, and a deep connection to the road for a thrilling driving experience without compromising comfort and sophistication.
5
Audi R8 V8 (2007-2015)
Top Speed: 187 MPH
The Audi R8 V8 is an excellent alternative to the Nissan GT-R. It offers a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and driver engagement, appealing to enthusiasts who prefer performance cars with a more refined, balanced experience.
While the GT-R is renowned for its technological prowess and brutal acceleration, the R8 V8 stands out with its exotic design, naturally aspirated engine, and exceptional driving dynamics.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
4.2-Liter V8 |
|
Transmission |
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
414 HP |
|
Torque |
317 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
All-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
4.5 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
187 MPH |
|
Used Pricing (J.D. Power Average Retail) |
$48,800 (2008 Audi R8 AWD Auto) |
(Data was collected from Audi)
The GT-R may be a technological marvel and an absolute performance beast, but the R8 V8 offers a more refined, luxurious experience. If you’re seeking a driver-focused, viscerally exciting, and emotionally fulfilling driving experience with a stunning design and true sports car pedigree, the R8 V8 is an excellent choice.
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4
BMW M6 (F13, 2012-2018)
Top Speed: 189 MPH
The BMW F13 M6 is an excellent alternative to the Nissan GT-R, especially if you’re seeking a high-performance car that doesn’t compromise on luxury, comfort, and elegance. While the GT-R delivers incredible speed, the M6 offers a more refined, engaging driving experience with its twin-turbo V8, rear-wheel drive dynamics, and luxurious interior.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
4.4-Liter Twin-Turbo V8 |
|
Transmission |
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
560 HP |
|
Torque |
502 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
4.1 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
189 MPH (M-Driver’s Package) |
|
Used Pricing (KBB Fair Purchase Price National Average) |
$24,949 (2013 BMW M6 Coupe) |
(Data was collected from BMW)
The M6 combines track-level performance and everyday usability, as well as a smooth ride and a sense of prestige. It also offers balance, style, and luxury in a way the GT-R doesn’t, making it an ideal choice if you appreciate a more sophisticated, high-performance machine.
3
Chevrolet Corvette C7 Z06 (2015-2019)
Top Speed: 196 MPH
The Chevrolet Corvette C7 Z06 is an excellent alternative to the Nissan GT-R as it offers a combination of raw performance, advanced technology, and American muscle car spirit. While the GT-R is more focused on technological precision and all-wheel drive stability, the Z06 offers a more traditional rear-wheel drive sports car experience with a supercharged V8, aggressive styling, and an emotionally charged driving experience.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
6.2-Liter Supercharged V8 |
|
Transmission |
8-Speed Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
650 HP |
|
Torque |
650 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
3.0 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
196 MPH |
|
Used Pricing (KBB Fair Purchase Price National Average) |
$55,405 (2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Coupe) |
(Data was collected from Chevrolet)
The Z06 balances luxury, raw power, and track performance better than many other sports cars in its price range. This makes it a great option for anyone seeking an American alternative to the highly capable GT-R.
2
Porsche 911 Turbo (991, 2012-2019)
Top Speed: 198 MPH
The Porsche 991 Turbo is an outstanding alternative to the Nissan GT-R, thanks to its incredible performance, refined handling, and luxury sports car appeal. While the GT-R is a high-tech powerhouse with incredible speed and advanced all-wheel drive capabilities, the 991 Turbo offers a more polished driving experience, with unparalleled precision, a balanced ride, and the option for both rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
3.8-Liter Twin-Turbo Flat-6 |
|
Transmission |
7-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
532 HP |
|
Torque |
524 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
All-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
2.9 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
198 MPH |
|
Used Pricing (KBB Fair Purchase Price National Average) |
$90,731 (2012 Porsche 911 Turbo Coupe) |
(Data was collected from Porsche)
The 991 Turbo is a high-performance sports car that doesn’t compromise on luxury, comfort, or refinement. With its sleek design, precise handling, and superior interior quality, it offers a more balanced driving experience compared to the GT-R.
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1
Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat (2015-Present)
Top Speed: 203 MPH
The Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat is a powerful and unique alternative to the Nissan GT-R, offering a blend of American muscle, raw performance, and an unmistakable driving experience. While the GT-R is known for its technological sophistication, advanced all-wheel drive system, and precision handling, the Challenger Hellcat offers a more brutal, no-holds-barred power delivery, a muscle car heritage, and a driving experience that’s both visceral and thrilling.
Performance Specifications
|
Engine |
6.2-Liter Supercharged V8 |
|
Transmission |
6-Speed Automatic |
|
Horsepower |
717 HP |
|
Torque |
656 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
Rear-Wheel Drive |
|
0-60 MPH |
3.7 Seconds |
|
Top Speed |
203 MPH |
|
Used Pricing (KBB Fair Purchase Price National Average) |
$30,242 (2015 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Coupe) |
(Data was collected from Stellantis)
The Hellcat delivers a supercharged HEMI V8 engine with more horsepower than the GT-R, and its rear-wheel-drive layout offers a different kind of driving excitement that focuses on brutal acceleration and muscle car heritage. The GT-R is more of a technology-driven sports car, whereas the Hellcat embodies the spirit of classic American muscle.
