10 Used Sports Cars That Still Feel Special For Under $15,000
Sports cars are always an emotional purchase—pretty much a toy for grown-ups. Unfortunately, these toys don’t come cheap, either, thus making them low-volume offerings for automakers. The cheapest sports car you can buy in the United States today is the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata, which starts at $30,430. That’s below the nearly $50,000 that Americans paid on average for a new car this year, but remember, the MX-5 is still essentially a $30,430 toy.
Now that’s where the used car market comes in. It may not have a warranty, but with sports cars often being an emotional purchase, many of these timeless choices are still appealing, even after being passed on to numerous owners. If you’re looking for a used sports car for under $15,000 that still feels special, you’ve definitely come to the right place. This curated list arranges sports cars (and sports cars only) based on their affordability, from most to least expensive, with average used values coming from Kelley Blue Book.
2005 Porsche Boxster (987 Generation)
Average Used Price: $14,950 (Currently Appreciating)
We’re starting this list with what is, unsurprisingly, the most expensive here—the 2005 Porsche Boxster. 2005 marks the first model year of the brilliant 987 (second-generation model) after coming off the first-generation 986 model that saved Porsche from bankruptcy. The 986’s front end, doors, headlights, and interior components were common to the 996-generation (fifth-generation) 911, lowering development costs. For the 987, the Boxster shares about 36 to 37 percent of its components with the 997, which is slightly less than the 986 and the 996.
As a result, the 987 Boxster had a bit more distinction than the 997-generation 911. Apart from the succeeding 981 generation, the 987 is one of the most highly desired Boxster generations. This was at a time when Porsche still used hydraulic steering, giving it the signature precise, feel-rich Porsche steering. Due to the inherent low center of gravity, it was a tidy handler. Handling was poised, and with the Boxster S, it even outperformed the Ferrari Enzo in Road and Track’s test course. The 987 Boxster experience starts at $14,950, according to Kelley Blue Book, and unfortunately, the 987’s values are on an uptrend. If this is too expensive for you, then consider our other Porsche alternative on this list.
2013 Nissan 370Z
Average Used Price: $14,550 (Currently Appreciating)
The Nissan 370Z debuted in 2008 for the 2009 model year, and for 2013, the 370Z got a mid-cycle facelift. This is the model to go for if you want the 370Z’s updated looks and the optional Sports Package, which offers sportier shock tuning and red brake calipers. If these aren’t a necessity, older model years are perfectly fine, and, in my opinion, the front bumpers of the pre-facelift model look nicer. The 2013 Nissan 370Z has an average resale of $14,550, but opting for the pre-facelift 370Z will definitely be cheaper without missing much in terms of features.
Regardless of the model year, or even with or without the Sports Package, the Nissan 370Z is the final Z with a naturally aspirated V-6 engine. It’s part of the legendary VQ family that made Nissan one of the most awarded brands in Ward’s Auto in its 10 Best Engines list. I drove a 370Z primarily during the modern turbocharged Z’s launch as a point of comparison, and it is here that you feel its engineering philosophy is very close to that of the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The suspension is soft, though sometimes too soft for a sports car in some instances. On the upside, it’s one of the last modern sports cars with hydraulic steering, which is why its precision and feel are refreshing compared to today’s electric power steering systems.
2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Average Used Price: $14,550
This list wouldn’t be complete without the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The 2018 model year Miata is right before the “ND2” update came into the picture, which means its 2.0-liter four-cylinder still produces 155 horsepower instead of the 181 horsepower of the ND2. It also has no rearview camera, either as standard equipment or as an option, as the ND1 was released before the United States required all cars to have one. Anyway, even before the ND2 update, the ND1 is still a brilliant car to drive.
I’ve driven all iterations of the ND platform, and though it doesn’t make much power, its sheer lightness is a joy. The somewhat soft suspension deliberately adds a degree of roll to the chassis without affecting handling, as this is the MX-5 Miata’s means of communicating its motions to the driver. The steering is good, and the six-speed manual is one of the world’s best in terms of shift feel. There’s quite a price parity between the ND1 and ND2, and this allows it to clear our $15,000 threshold for this list. The MX-5 Miata is indeed almost anyone’s answer for a fun yet accessible sports car.
2013 BMW Z4
Average Used Price: $14,300
The BMW Z4 entered a new era in the 2009 model year when the E89 generation was introduced to replace the previous E85 generation. The E85 was mostly known for being a raw sports car, but the E89 imbued a sense of luxury and refinement into the Z4 formula to create a sports car with grand tourer (GT) DNA. The result is a softer Z4 with a more luxurious cabin and a folding metal roof (which is why the Z4 Coupe was discontinued). The 2013 model year is when the E89 Z4 was facelifted, giving it white LED circular daytime running lights and LED turn signals, along with interior design improvements.
The Z4 is often compared to the sportier Boxster, and indeed, with the E89, numerous reviews describe its steering feel as great during turns, but it doesn’t offer much feel near center—which suits long-distance highway driving better. Body control is good, though the 2.0-liter four-cylinder in the sDrive28i is noted for its more agile front end since it carries a smaller engine. If you are one of those fans, Kelley Blue Book says used prices start at $14,300. Opting for the pre-facelift older model years will lead to a lower price, but the good news is that the Z4’s values aren’t appreciating at the moment.
2016 Scion FR-S / Subaru BRZ
Average Used Price: $13,600 / $12,400
Ah yes, remember when the Toyota 86 was sold as the Scion FR-S? Yeah, we won’t blame you if you forgot it existed. Scion was supposed to be Toyota’s youthful brand, but that ship had long since sailed by 2017, when all of its models eventually became part of Toyota. The Subaru BRZ? Well, you know the gist. It’s the 86’s twin, which has a slightly stiffer suspension for better handling instead of a slightly softer tune for the FR-S that made it a touch more tail-happy. I’ve reviewed both the 86 and a BRZ, and I’m here to tell you that both cars have some of the best steering feel in the electric power steering era—even better than the ND MX-5 Miata’s, in my opinion. Just be sure to get the six-speed manual for this one. The six-speed automatic makes it feel more sluggish and less fun.
As for the resale value of these two cars, the FR-S costs slightly more than the BRZ, though that’s probably down to Scion simply being a Toyota, which means it has more available dealers for servicing. In terms of reliability, both are essentially the same car with the same 2.0-liter FA20 boxer engine, which is very reliable. Just stay on top of its maintenance; as a high-compression engine, it requires diligence, but you’ll be fine.
2015 Audi TT
Average Used Price: $12,050
The only all-wheel drive (AWD) sports car on this list, the 2015 Audi TT is artwork first, sports car second. The curvaceous singular line of its silhouette has become a design icon. Pre-2010 TTs only offered Quattro AWD on higher trims or as an option, but regardless, this generation of the TT made a name for itself with its balanced yet sharp handling, grippy AWD, and signature upmarket Audi interior. Opt for older model years, and the TT S may be within your budget. Its upgrades, including a more powerful 265-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a six-speed S Tronic dual-clutch transmission, make it a joy to drive.
The 2015 model year is also the final year of the second-generation TT. The third-generation TT is undeniably the nameplate’s peak, with its sleek Bauhaus interior, sharp yet modern design, and driving dynamics even more well-sorted than the model it replaced. As such, the 2015 Audi TT clears the $15,000 threshold of this list, making it attainable enough for those who desire a sports car with equal parts style and driving dynamics.
2009 Nissan 350Z
Average Used Price: $7,850
The 2009 Nissan 350Z is the predecessor to the 370Z. It has a smaller 3.5-liter V6 engine that’s still related to the VQ family. What makes the 350Z stand out is that, versus the 370Z’s somewhat grand tourer orientation, the 350Z’s chassis dynamics cater to a more focused and sharper driving experience. The 350Z was also a game changer. It was priced between the NC-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Corvette. This happy middle ground, plus the sheer durability of the 3.5-liter V6 engine, made it a popular option for tuners. It was also a style icon, as the 350Z looked unlike anything else of its era—no doubt helped by its appearances in The Fast and the Furious franchise.
Just be sure that you get a stock 350Z because modifications will affect its reliability. Nevertheless, the 350Z starts at $7,850 according to Kelley Blue Book, and older model years are even more affordable. 2009 is also the final model year of the 350Z, just as the 370Z came into the picture.
2009 Pontiac Solstice / Saturn Sky
Average Used Price: $6,600 / $6,575
Ah yes, remember when America developed a compact rear-wheel drive (RWD) sports car to battle the likes of the Mazda MX-5 or what the Europeans could do for a fraction of their prices? That’s where the 2009 Pontiac Solstice and 2009 Saturn Sky came into the picture. With both brands under GM before both succumbed to closures due to the 2008 Financial Crisis, the Solstice and the Sky are essentially rebadged versions of each other. Reviews praised the handling of the American sports car duo. Though heavier than the MX-5 Miata, it was still impressive, with crisp handling and a balanced ride. In the case of the Solstice GXP and Sky Red Line, with their 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinders producing 260 horsepower and backed by a slick five-speed manual, the engine adds a touch of attitude to an already capable chassis.
The Solstice and Sky were a huge sales success, but it seems consumers have forgotten their existence. Nevertheless, their used values of $6,600 and $6,575 are simply negligible, so your preference will come down to which design you prefer. The Sky is a bit sleeker, more modern, and a touch more upmarket with how the interior is laid out, while the Solstice has a more retro-inspired design.
2005 Toyota MR2
Average Used Price: $6,100
2005 was the final year that the Toyota MR2 was ever sold in the United States, with production ceasing in 2007. Spy shots already confirm the return of the MR2, but if you want to satisfy your MR2 itch right now, you’ll be glad to hear that it only costs $6,100 on average.
And oh boy, is the MR2 a brilliant sports car. With the engine positioned near the middle of the chassis, and a relentless focus on lightness, it became one of the best-handling sports cars of all time. Its long wheelbase also made it surprisingly stable. Its 1.8-liter 1ZZ-FE engine only produces 138 horsepower, but with the car weighing just 2,195 pounds with a five-speed manual, it didn’t need more power. A five-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMT) was introduced in the 2002 model year, making it essentially the precursor to today’s paddle-shift gearboxes.
2002 BMW Z3
Average Used Price: $5,300
The most affordable on this list is the 2002 BMW Z3, just before the Z4 came into the market the following model year. The Z3 was a style icon, no doubt due to its very beautiful retro-inspired design. Its appearance in GoldenEye simply made it an object of desire for many. Though a great-handling sports car, the Z3 is truly at its best if you get it with any of the inline-six engines. If you want even more power and more capable handling, you can get the M Coupe or M Roadster, budget permitting. The 2000-2002 model years are the more desirable ones, because these are the model years when the M3 E46’s sublime 3.2-liter S54 straight-six with 315 horsepower was fitted.
Speaking of price, the 2002 BMW Z3 has an average used price of $5,300. Searching for an M Coupe and M Roadster for under $15,000 will be difficult, and if you do find one, they aren’t necessarily in the best mechanical condition. Stick to the Z3s with an inline-six for a fraction of the cost of an M Coupe or M Roadster, and you’ll still have a blast driving these cars on a winding country road.
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