The Fastest Cars Under 15K
Driving enthusiasts on a budget, fret not! You can still own something speedy that won’t break the bank. These are the fastest cars under 15K.
Written by Kerry Gibson
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
The used car market is laden with hidden gems. If you’re looking for a vehicle that will leave fellow commuters in the dust, check out these preloved models. Ditch the brand new Ferrari price tag for the fastest cars under 15K.
They may not be equipped with the latest modern luxuries and technologies, but they’re quick and fun to drive.
Car buying
just got a whole lot more interesting!Fast American-built cars
Own 400 hp for as low as $10,000. The best year for the first generation Cadillac CTS-V was 2007 with its 6.0-liter V8 engine. The six-speed manual transmission ensures a fun ride. The leather bucket seats, sunroof, and Bose sound system will ensure a comfortable ride, too.
Surprisingly quick is the hatchback Ford Fiesta ST. A 2014 model runs 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds thanks to 197 hp. Increase its top speed of 130 mph with further modifications.
Those seeking a powerful V8 won’t be disappointed with the Chevrolet Corvette C6. It has 400 hp to help it move from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds. It has that classic sports car styling that’s sure to turn heads.
And then there’s its sibling, the Chevrolet Camaro SS. The 2010 model has rear-wheel drive and a 6.2-liter V8 engine. It has a top speed of 200 mph and 426 hp. Production was limited, so patience is required while hunting for a used, affordable one.
MotorBiscuit
recommends the 2012 model as one of the fastest cars under 15K. It comes with a plethora of transmission and engine options and manages 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. Owners will appreciate the Camaro’s impressive speeds, handling, braking, and firm ride.The Camaro’s top competitor remains the Ford Mustang GT. Shift through five speeds automatically or manually in a 2010 with 300 hp. The performance of its 4.6-liter V8 can always benefit from an abundance of aftermarket parts.
MORE: A Forgotten Classic: 1990 Chevy Camaro IROC-Z
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Fast Asian-built cars
The value of a 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X is finally dropping, making it one of the fastest cars under 15K. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine can be paired to a five-speed or six-speed manual transmission. It has 291 hp and all-wheel drive. However, don’t expect great gas mileage while zipping around town.
Coming in just under $15,000 is a 2008 Nissan 350Z. The 3.5-liter V6 has 305 hp and tops out at 155 mph. The modern styling also helps drivers look the part.
The 232 hp 1.3-liter rotary engine in the 2008 Mazda RX-8 is certainly unique. Its low center of gravity allows for excellent handling. And adults will enjoy getting in and out of the backseat thanks to rear-hinged doors.
A 2012 or 2014 Mazda MX-5 is an affordable compact roadster. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine has an output of 167 hp. It runs 0 to 60 mph in six seconds, giving the Honda S2000 a run for its money.
The 2003 Honda S2000 is outfitted with the same engine, but produces 237 hp. The six-speed manual gearbox makes for fun driving.
Another fun roadster is the 2008 Saturn Sky Redline. It has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 260 hp. This can be upgraded to 290 hp with some upgrades. It sports an aggressive body kit and stiff suspension.
Those seeking more options can decide between a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, or a 3.8-liter V6, in the 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe. The latter offers up 306 hp, compared to 212 hp. It takes less than six seconds to move from 0 to 60 mph.
The all-wheel drive Subaru WRX STI achieves 300 hp with a turbocharged motor. A 2009 model costs around $14,000 and reaches 160 mph.
The Kia Forte EX will surprise car enthusiasts with a 2.0-liter engine that produces 164 hp. Passengers can sit comfortably while being propelled to 130 mph.
MORE: 10 Fastest Mazda Cars
Fast European-built cars
Of course you’d expect a used Porsche 928 to make the cut. Final production year was 1995, but it runs back to 1978. The 5.0-liter V8 has 300 hp. Go as fast as 162 mph and enjoy refined handling.
The Mercedes S600 maxes out at 180 mph, an astonishing feat for a large, unassuming sedan. A 2007 model offers up back massages and 460 hp. It’s equipped with a 5.5-liter V12 twin-turbo engine.
For sleeker styling, opt for a 2004 Mercedes SL55 AMG. It will exceed 200 mph thanks to 493 hp.
Get yourself a V10 Lamborghini Gallardo motor with 450 hp in a 2008 Audi S8. This 4,500-lb heavyweight is durable and still hits 180 mph, as per
HotCars
.A 2014 Audi TT is also one of the fastest cars under 15K with a top speed of 170 mph. It’s all-wheel drive with 274 hp. The 2012 model’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder will run 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds.
If luxurious four-doors are more your style, a 2011 BMW 328i will surely deliver. It hits 155 mph with the support of a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Its 333-hp sibling, the BMW M3, is equipped with a 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine. Produced between 2001 and 2006, this car has a six-speed or semi-automated manual gearbox. It has a top speed of 174 mph.
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