It’s becoming harder to find powerful cars at affordable prices as used car prices remain high. But don’t worry, check out this guide on how you can buy a car like a pro. Our latest list features the best fun cars under $10k in America.
Our search criteria are straightforward. We’re looking for cars that cost $10,000 or less, with some exceptions. We also extended the age range to match the fact that people are now keeping their cars for nearly 12 years.
This means we’re looking at vehicles from around 2012, with mileage between 85,000 to 100,000 miles to account for their age. Experts like Kelly Blue Book and Motor1 helped us figure out the private party values of the cars we identified.
Along with the above criteria, we also made sure the cars were rated “Good” for condition. And we picked the color Silver as our favorite because it’s a popular choice.
15 Best Fun Cars Under $10K Experts Review
So, without further ado, check out our list of 15 best fun cars under 10k dollars. It’s time to get your checkbooks out and start shopping!
1. 2015 Ford Mustang V6 ( EST. Price – $10,938 )
Specifications
- Engine: 3.7-Liter V6
- Horsepower: 300 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.5 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
We’re bending the rules slightly again, but hear us out. For just a few hundred dollars more than our $10,000 limit, you can get your hands on a 2015 Mustang V6, according to KBB. With 100,000 miles on the clock, this Mustang is priced under $11,000.
Plus, with the arrival of the 2024 model, prices will likely drop even further. The 3.7-liter V6 engine produces 300 horsepower, and you can choose between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. This Mustang will take you from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds.
2. 2011 Saab 9-5 Aero ( EST. Price – $8,936 )
Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.8-Liter V6
- Horsepower: 300 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 6.3 Seconds
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Saab was near the end of its run during the 2011 model year, making the 9-5 even more special since it was an all-new design. The Aero model is the one to look for, with a turbocharged 2.8-liter V6 engine producing 300 horsepower, and all-wheel drive for icy conditions.
It’s a great-looking Swedish sedan that’s hard to find, making it a unicorn. In spite of the fact that Saab no longer exists, it’s still worth paying the small price to drive something so unique. Let’s adore this one of the rare fun manual cars under 10k and enjoy the ride.
3. 2011 Chevrolet Camaro LS V6 (EST. Price – $9,272)
Specifications
- Engine: 3.6-Liter V6
- Horsepower: 312 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 6.0 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic/6-Speed Manual
Back then, we could buy a used Chevy Camaro with a V8 engine for less than $10,000, just like the Mustang. However, things have changed now. Unfortunately, we are only left with the V6 option in the 2011 Chevy Camaro LS model.
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But, we can still take pride in our 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 312 horsepower. And, the older Camaro models have the best design compared to the newer ones. Let’s cherish the good old days when we could have more options and power under our hood.
4. 2012 Infiniti G37 S Coupe (EST. Price – $10,071)
Specifications
- Engine: 3.7-Liter V6
- Horsepower: 330 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.4 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
You can find a base Infiniti G37 coupe for under $10,000. But if you want a sportier ride, go for the S model with its 330-hp engine, bigger brakes, bigger wheels, and sportier suspension. The 3.7-liter V6 engine gives it a 0-60 time of 5.5 seconds, making it a thrill to drive.
While it doesn’t quite meet our price criteria, it’s worth considering that it’s only a small amount more. And let’s be honest, when it comes to finding the perfect car, a few extra dollars here and there is a small price to pay for a thrilling ride.
5. 2012 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 (EST. Price – $9,731)
Specifications
- Engine: 5.0-Liter V8
- Horsepower: 429 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 4.9 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
We recommend the 2012 Hyundai Genesis for those who want a luxurious sedan with a powerful V8 engine. It’s not just powerful, it’s also high-tech and fine-handling. The 5.0-liter V8 engine produces an impressive 429 horsepower, which is more than the Dodge Viper.
Although it does not have the R-Spec version with additional go-fast hardware, it is still a fantastic choice for luxury car enthusiasts. A host of features and advanced technology makes the Genesis one of the most attractive & fun reliable cars under 10k dollars.
6. 2012 Ford Taurus SHO w/ Performance Package (EST. Price – $9,109)
Specifications
- Engine: Twin-Turbo 3.5-Liter V6
- Horsepower: 365 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.2 Seconds
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
We were pleasantly surprised to find pure performance in a Ford Taurus. It is one of the best fun cars under 10k dollars. This is a rebirth of Ford’s famous Super High Output model. Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, it produced an impressive 365 horsepower.
Suggestion: Top Cars For Ice Driving
If we come across a model with the Performance Package, we should grab it. As part of the package, the car gets improved brakes, tuned steering, Sport Mode for stability control, summer tires, and a spare tire delete to reduce weight.
7. 2012 Dodge Charger R/T (EST. Price – $9,934)
Specifications
- Engine: 5.7-Liter V8
- Horsepower: 370 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.8 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
2011 marked the seventh generation of Dodge Charger, with newer and more powerful versions. The R/T, for instance, upped its output to 370 horsepower from its 5.7-liter Hemi V8. You can still find a 7th-gen Charger for under $10,000 if you know where to look.
Let’s explore the market and take advantage of this opportunity to own a powerful and iconic American muscle car. You’ll feel the thrill of the Charger’s acceleration and enjoy its distinctive styling that commands attention on the road.
8. 2012 Chrysler 300C (EST. Price – $9,105)
Specifications
- Engine: 5.7-Liter V8
- Horsepower: 363 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.3 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Looking for a large rear-wheel-drive sedan? Look no further than the 2012 Chrysler 300C. Equipped with a 5.7-liter V8 engine, it produces 363 horsepower, even more than the 550i. A major redesign of the 300 led to this model featuring a large 8.4-inch infotainment screen with Uconnect.
This fun car under $10K has an advanced tech package at the time that keeps the car feeling modern even by today’s standards. Let’s enjoy the best of both worlds with a powerful engine and advanced features that keep us connected on the road.
9. 2014 Cadillac CTS Coupe (EST. Price – $9,034)
Specifications
- Engine: 3.6-Liter V6
- Horsepower: 318 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 6.0 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
We have good news for you – the 2014 Cadillac CTS coupe still hits the mark for an affordable, yet powerful luxury car. This coupe features a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 318 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive.
Although Cadillac updated the sedan model that year, the coupe remained unchanged. That is what makes it an excellent, unique and stylish ride. With a little bit of searching, we believe you can find well-maintained fun 4 door cars under 10k dollars.
10. 2013 BMW 335i Coupe (EST. Price – $9,290)
Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-Liter I6
- Horsepower: 300 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.1 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
We’ve found an excellent luxury performance car, and it’s the 2013 BMW 335i. It comes with a 300-horsepower 3.0-liter inline-six engine, a six-speed manual, and RWD. Even though it’s been a decade since it was first introduced, it still offers impressive performance.
Also Check: Most Reliable Luxury Cars You Can Look For 2023.
Plus, you can find one with just over 85,000 miles and purchase it for under $10,000, according to KBB estimates. It’s a perfect choice for car enthusiasts looking for fun manual cars under 10k that can provide a thrilling driving experience.
11. 2012 BMW 550i Sedan (EST. Price – $7,932)
Specifications
- Engine: Turbocharged 4.4-Liter V8
- Horsepower: 400 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 4.3 Seconds
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
An all-new 4.4-liter turbocharged engine replaced the V8 engine in the F10 BMW 5 Series. In addition, its 0-60-time improved by half a second with its horsepower boosted from 360 to 400. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, and electric power steering.
According to KBB, a good-condition F10 with 85,000 miles will cost around $7,932. A car with over 100,000 miles might be cheaper if you’re willing to take a risk. Take a look at the F10 BMW 5 Series if you’re looking for fun AWD cars under 10k dollars.
12. 2012 Jaguar XF Supercharged (EST. Price – $8,623)
Specifications
- Engine: Supercharged 5.0-Liter V8
- Horsepower: 470 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 4.9 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
We have found the ultimate contender for the title of “King of Horsepower” – the 2012 Jaguar XF Supercharged. Its supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine churns out an impressive 470 horsepower. It makes this car the most powerful & fun car you can buy for under $10,000.
The 2011 update gave the XF a sleek and modern look, making it a head-turner on the road. Its plush interior, advanced technology, and smooth handling make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fun car to drive under 10k with a lot of power.
13. 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 3.8 (EST. Price – $9,369)
Specifications
- Engine: 3.8-Liter V6
- Horsepower: 333 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.5 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
We are excited to tell you about the 2013 Genesis Coupe. It has not only received a facelift and updated interior, but also boasts a more powerful 333 horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine. The RWD Genesis Coupe 3.8 is capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in only 5.5 seconds.
Suggestion: 2023 Genesis G80 Luxury Sedan
With an odometer reading of around 85,000 miles, you can easily find a Hyundai Genesis Coupe in good condition for under $10,000, according to KBB. It’s one of the stylish, high-performance fun manual cars under 10k dollars.
14. First-Gen Porsche Boxster 986 ( EST. Price – $11,000 )
Specifications
- Engine: 2.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated
- Horsepower: 201 – 217 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.9 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 5-Speed Manual/Tiptronic Automatic
We consider the first-generation Porsche Boxster (1997-2004) to have been one of the best fun cars to drive under 10K dollars. The base model had a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine producing 201 hp, which later got upgraded to 217 hp.
This may not seem like a lot, but it could go from 0 to 60 mph in under six seconds. For even more excitement, the Boxster S with its 250-hp engine is an excellent choice, although it will cost over $10,000 more than the base model.
15. 2008 Cobalt SS ( EST. Price $7,000 )
Specifications
- Engine: 2.0-Liter Turbo 4-Cyl
- Horsepower: 260 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.7 Seconds
- Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
- Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Cobalt SS was the perfect example of taking a regular car and turning it into a thrilling streetcar. It has a turbocharger to the mix, resulting in a powerful yet affordable car. The 2008 model boasted a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 260 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.
This was an upgrade from the SRT-4, making it a step above the competition. Additionally, it had decent fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice. You could own one of these fun reliable cars under 10k.
Top FAQs About Fun Cars To Drive Under $10000
What Is The Coolest Cheap Car?
The coolest cheap car is a subjective matter and depends on personal preference. However, some of the most popular options are the Mazda Miata, Honda Civic Type R, and the Volkswagen Golf GTI.
These cars are affordable, fun to drive, and have a strong enthusiast following. Additionally, they offer good fuel efficiency and reliability, making them practical daily drivers as well.
Which Is The Fun Car To Drive In 2023?
There are many cars known for being fun to drive, including the Porsche 911, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Subaru WRX, and Ford Mustang. These cars are popular among enthusiasts for their performance capabilities, handling, and driving experience.
Ultimately, the choice of the fun car to drive in 2023 will depend on individual preferences and budget.
What Is The Most Fun Practical Car?
The most fun practical car is one that offers a balance of performance and functionality. The Subaru WRX is a popular choice among enthusiasts for its turbocharged engine, all-wheel-drive system, and practical sedan body style.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is another practical one of the fun 4 door cars under 10k dollars, with its responsive handling and versatile hatchback design. Ultimately, these two options are known for striking a great balance.
Is 300 HP Enough For A Car?
Yes, 300 horsepower is enough for a car, and it can provide a thrilling driving experience. This level of power can be found in many popular sports cars, such as the Toyota Supra, Subaru WRX STI, and BMW M2.
Additionally, cars with 300 horsepower tend to offer good acceleration and passing ability while still being manageable for daily driving.
How Fast Can A Car With 300 Horsepower Go?
The top speed of a 300-horsepower car depends on various factors like size, weight, tires, engine, and purpose. For example, a 2011 BMW 335i sport sedan with a 300-horsepower twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine can go from 0-60 in just 4.9 seconds.
On the other hand, a 2009 Land Rover Range Rover Sport, also with 300 horsepower, takes a slower 8.2 seconds due to its heavier weight, less aerodynamic design, and less acceleration-focused engine tuning.
What Vehicles Have 300 Horsepower?
300 horsepower is a common power output for luxury sedans, large SUVs, and muscle cars, although any car could have this much power. Most of the cars on our list fall into one of these three categories. While trucks can also have engines with 300 horsepower or more, they’re generally not as enjoyable to drive.
What Low-Cost Vehicles Have 300 Horsepower?
The least expensive car with 300 hp is the 2009 Buick LaCrosse Super Sedan at $6,075. Its twin, the 2009 Chevy Impala SS, is just slightly more expensive at $6,091. A used car with more miles will usually be less costly to purchase.
According to our list, if you find a car with 150,000 miles, it should cost less than what we suggested. But keep in mind, a higher-mileage car may be less reliable and require more upkeep.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the market for an affordable and enjoyable car, check out our list of the 15 best fun cars under 10K dollars. These cars offer a thrilling driving experience without breaking the bank. Additionally, if you’re interested in even more power, be sure to check out our list of the cheapest 500 horsepower cars under $10k. Don’t miss out on these exciting options!
