10 Best Exotic Cars Under $100K
While seven-figure Bugattis and other hypercars are undoubtedly attention-grabbing, not everyone has the wallet or mindset for these vehicles. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get behind the wheel of something exciting. With this in mind, let’s explore the best exotics cars for those with a budget below $100,000.
Acura NSX
The first-generation Acura NSX for sale ticks two automotive boxes; exotic and classic. And although the second-gen models also turn heads, they’ll bust the budget. Instead, search out a mid-1990s NSX. Sure, sub-300 horsepower may not compare to more contemporary offerings, but the original NSX still provides engaging performance and attracts attention.
Aston Martin Vantage
While it’s hard to beat the glorious sound of a 12-cylinder engine, choosing a V8 Vantage over the V12 version will save money and expand availability. And the truth is, showing up in any Aston Martin still makes a statement. Keeping the spending below $100,000 will get you either a hardtop or convertible V8 Vantage from 2015, give or take a year or two. Plus, you’ll have money left over for a very nice vacation.
Audi R8
While the Audi R8 for sale has been around since 2007, you won’t have to go that far back to keep things within boundaries. You’ll want to explore the model years from 2013-2015, as these versions reflect the fall 2012 refresh. This focus will yield R8s with the 4.2-liter V8. You’ll need to look at older R8s for the 5.2-liter V10.
Bentley Continental GT
Spending one hundred grand will get a buyer a Continental GT (or Continental GT Convertible) from 2011-2014, the first years of the second generation. Although the twin-turbo W12 is available, budget constraints mean “settling” for the twin-turbo V8.
Chevrolet Corvette
You don’t have to spend close to $100,000 to buy a Corvette, but doing so will get you a C8 Vette. It’s a wallet-friendly sports car with supercar looks and performance to match. Choices range across all C8 model years (2020-2023), so you’ll have to decide if lower mileage, more equipment, or age is the most important.
Ferrari 360
There is such a thing as an affordable Ferrari; it comes in the form of the 360, which was built from 1999-2005. This 21st-century Ferrari has modern looks that are still relevant 20 years later and a glorious 3.6-liter V8 behind the cabin. The earliest models will keep the spending within reason.
Ford Shelby Mustang GT500
While the newest GT500s cross the $100,000 mark with no problem, some thorough research can locate a 2020 model that doesn’t break the bank. Ford recently announced a seventh-generation (S550) Mustang debuting as a 2024 model, so interest in S550-based Shelby GT500s could pick up.
Lamborghini Gallardo
As with Ferrari, finding a budget-friendly Lambo isn’t impossible. In this instance, you’ll want to check out a first-generation Lamborghini Gallardo for sale from 2004-2008. In addition to finding a bargain from Sant’Agata, the 5.0-liter V10 will create a few smiles.
Nissan GT-R
While some exotics are smooth and polished, the Nissan GT-R is about as refined as a sledgehammer. And there’s nothing wrong with that. Availability isn’t an issue, especially for examples well under the price threshold. Search for a 2016 or older GT-R to keep the cost in check.
Porsche 911 Turbo S
There are plenty of two-door Porsches, like the Boxster and Cayman, that don’t exceed $100,000, but the legendary 911 stands above the rest. To further narrow things down, focus on the Turbo S for the ideal balance of performance and bank account. Affordable model years will be from 2001-2011.
