10 Dream Cars We Found for Under $40,000

If you’re in the market for a high-performance car that delivers both luxury and thrill but don’t want to break the bank, you’re in the right place. This list features 10 cars, all under $40,000, that offer a perfect blend of sportiness and refinement—ideal for anyone craving excitement without compromising on comfort.

From classic muscle cars to sharp sedans and sleek coupes, these vehicles come with impressive performance credentials and luxurious features. Whether you’re drawn to the roar of a V8 or the precision of European engineering, these models offer an exciting driving experience with luxury to match.

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Car and Driver, Edmunds, and Kelley Blue Book. The models featured in this list have been ranked based on performance, driving experience, and overall appeal. The average used prices quoted are based on Kelley Blue Book’s fair purchase price (national average).

10

2023 Infiniti Q50 RED SPORT 400

Average Used Price: $39,150

The Infiniti Q50 RED SPORT 400 is a luxury sports sedan powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that produces 400 horsepower. It’s fast but focuses more on luxury and comfort rather than sharp, track-focused performance.

Q50 RED SPORT 400 Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Infiniti)

The Q50 RED SPORT 400 offers strong acceleration and solid luxury but lacks the precision handling and driver engagement of other cars here. It’s better suited for those who want luxury with sporty undertones than hardcore performance.

Pros

• Strong V6 power
• Comfortable ride
• Attractive price

Cons

• Handling not as sharp as competitors
• Interior quality
• Infotainment system

9

2019 Lexus RC F

Average Used Price: $39,135

The Lexus RC F boasts a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 producing 472 horsepower, paired with a stylish, aggressive design. It’s an appealing option for those looking for luxury with performance, though its handling is not as sharp as some competitors.

RC F Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Lexus)

While the RC F’s V8 power makes it fast and luxurious, it doesn’t offer the same handling sharpness or track-ready performance as some other cars on this list, keeping it behind in performance rankings. It’s more of a luxury cruiser with a hint of sportiness than a hardcore track car, which limits its overall appeal for performance enthusiasts.

Pros

• V8 power
• Luxury and comfort
• Good reliability

Cons

• Not as agile as rivals
• Fuel economy
• Heavy

8

2017 Porsche Cayman 718

Average Used Price: $39,371

The Porsche Cayman 718 is known for its impeccable handling and mid-engine balance. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-4, it produces 300 horsepower, although it doesn’t have the sheer power of some competitors.

Cayman 718 Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Porsche)

However, the 718 Cayman’s mid-engine layout and Porsche’s emphasis on driver engagement make it one of the most fun cars to drive, particularly on twisty roads. It’s unsurpassed in handling, but its straight-line speed leaves something to be desired, which is why it ranks lower.

Pros

• Exceptional handling
• Driver-focused
• Quality interior

Cons

• Limited power
• Price for performance
• Small interior

7

2018 Cadillac ATS-V Sedan

Average Used Price: $38,591

The Cadillac ATS-V features a 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 with 464 horsepower, delivering strong performance and a solid balance of handling. It can hit 60 mph from a standstill in just 3.8 seconds, which is good going, but the overall feel can sometimes fall short compared to European contenders.

ATS-V Sedan Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Cadillac)

The ATS-V Sedan is a track-ready vehicle but lacks the polish and handling finesse of rivals like the BMW M3 or Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. It’s American muscle with excellent power, but it’s still not quite as refined or engaging as the top performers in the segment.

Pros

• Strong powertrain
• Track-ready performance
• Solid build quality

Cons

• Lack of refined handling
• Interior technology
• Price

6

2019 Jaguar F-TYPE R-Dynamic Coupe

Average Used Price: $39,941

The Jaguar F-TYPE R-Dynamic combines luxury and sportiness with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 296 horsepower. The design is stunning, and the car offers excellent driving dynamics and a memorable exhaust note.

F-TYPE R-Dynamic Coupe Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Jaguar)

Though not as powerful as some rivals, the F-TYPE offers a stunning look and an exciting driving experience. Its handling and balance are excellent, but it feels a bit more like a luxury cruiser than a track-focused machine when compared to more performance-focused options.

Pros

• Stunning design
• Engaging sound
• Balance and handling

Cons

• Lack of power in R-Dynamic trim
• Price for performance
• Interior space

5

2018 BMW M2

Average Used Price: $37,706

The BMW M2 is a driver’s car, offering sharp handling and a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6, producing 370 horsepower and 343 lb-ft of torque. It’s known for its engaging driving dynamics and is widely considered one of the best small performance coupes.

M2 Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from BMW)

The M2’s chassis is incredibly balanced and tailored for enthusiasts who value precise cornering and involvement. While it’s not the fastest car on this list, its 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds is still quick, but it’s the driving experience that makes it stand out.

Pros

• Exceptional handling
• Engaging driving experience
• Compact and agile

Cons

• Not the fastest
• Interior quality
• Limited rear space

4

2020 Audi RS3 Sedan

Average Used Price: $38,907

The Audi RS3 combines excellent acceleration, sharp handling, and Quattro all-wheel drive, making it an incredible performer in all conditions. Its 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder engine delivers 400 horsepower, and its 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds is blisteringly fast.

RS3 Sedan Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Audi)

The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, and its compact size and sports sedan styling make it agile and enjoyable on twisty roads. While not as powerful as the other vehicles, its lightweight design and Quattro make it one of the best handling and most track-capable sedans. The driving dynamics are among the best in its class, and the unique 5-cylinder engine provides a distinctive sound.

Pros

• Quattro all-wheel drive
• Blistering acceleration
• Great handling

Cons

• Expensive for a compact sedan
• Stiff ride
• Limited interior space

3

2018 Mercedes-Benz C63 S AMG Coupe

Average Used Price: $38,487

The Mercedes-Benz C63 S AMG Coupe is a complete power, luxury, and precision package. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine cranks out 503 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, delivering a strong, fast, and smooth driving experience.

C63 S AMG Coupe Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Mercedes-Benz)

Its 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds makes it competitive, but the refinement, build quality, and advanced technology are what sets it apart. The AMG performance suspension provides a great balance between handling and comfort, which appeals to drivers who want a luxury coupe that can still hold its own on the track.

Pros

• Powerful twin-turbo V8
• Luxurious cabin
• Handling precision

Cons

• Expensive
• Fuel economy
• Firm ride

2

2018 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe

Average Used Price: $39,672

The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe ranks in second place because it offers superior handling for its price, paired with phenomenal acceleration and high-performance capabilities. Its mid-engine balance provides precise handling, making it agile and stable.

Corvette Stingray Coupe Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Chevrolet)

Its 6.2-liter V8 delivers 455 horsepower and, with the Z51 performance package, you get incredible track capability. The Stingray’s acceleration, 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, puts it near the top, but its price-to-performance ratio is a major plus.

Pros

• Exceptional performance
• Mid-engine balance
• Track-capable

Cons

• Interior
• Ride comfort
• Limited storage

1

2017 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350

Average Used Price: $38,648

The Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 is a standout for enthusiasts. It offers the most thrilling driving experience of the cars listed, thanks to its naturally aspirated 5.2-liter V8 that provides 562 horsepower and an intoxicating exhaust note.

Mustang Shelby GT350 Performance Specifications

(Data was collected from Ford)

This engine, combined with its track-ready suspension, precision handling, and Brembo brakes, makes it an incredible car to drive both on and off the track. While it’s not the most polished in terms of luxury or refinement, it’s pure driving enjoyment in its rawest form.

Pros

• Naturally aspirated V8
• Track-ready performance
• Incredible handling

Cons

• Interior quality
• No automatic transmission
• Fuel economy