If you’re on a tight budget and want the quickest cars this year, then the fastest cars under 20k in 2023 are an excellent option for you. These cars are specially designed for buyers who are looking for powerful cars at affordable prices.
These used cars are considered fast and sporty on the road. And are designed to provide a fun and sporty driving experience in a cost-effective manner. They are made to offer a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability.
It is also important to note that the availability and prices of these cars may vary by region and dealer. We’ve listed some of the used cars so you’re enough choices to choose from.
Because you can’t get a new Ford Mustang on a budget of $20,000, but you can find a good performance car in good condition on the used car market at an affordable price. From powerful sports cars to luxury sedans, there’s something for everyone in the after-care market.
Read on to find out which cars have done it and why they’re the perfect choice for anyone on a budget.
List of 10 Most Reliable Fast Cars Under 20k Review In 2023
When it comes to the fastest used cars under 20k, it is important to look not only at the performance but also at the reliability of the car. A fast car that constantly breaks down or requires expensive repairs is not a good value.
Hence, choosing a reliable used fast car is a good choice for you as these cars require fewer repair bills and offer great drivability. Whether you’re a speed fanatic or just looking for bargains, you’re sure to find something to suit your needs.
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With that in mind, here are the top 10 most reliable fast cars that can be found for under $20,000 in 2023.
- 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
- 2017 Ford Mustang
- 2019 Chevrolet Camaro
- 2016 Dodge Charger
- 2014 Dodge Challenger
- 2018 Hyundai Elantra
- 2019 Ford Maverick
- 2018 Kia Forte
- 2017 Nissan Versa
- 2019 Hyundai Accent
Things to Consider When Buying The Fastest Cars For Under $20000
Finding the best and fastest used car can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of finding the perfect fit for your budget and needs. Here are some tips on how to find the best and fastest used cars:
1. Set a Budget
Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a quick-used car and stick to it. This will help you narrow down your options to those that are within your price range. It’s important to keep a budget in mind and not go over it.
2. Check Performance & Specs
Research the car’s top speed, horsepower, and 0-60 mph ratings to get an idea of its capabilities. This gives you an idea of how fast you can accelerate the car. Also, check the maximum speed and weight of the car to better understand the performance of the vehicle.
Be sure to research different models and brands to get a better idea of what the market has to offer in terms of performance.
3. Check Vehicle Condition
Check the vehicle’s history report and inspect the vehicle thoroughly for signs of wear and tear. Look for signs of previous crashes, rust, or other damage that may indicate the car has not been properly maintained.
Be sure to pay attention to the mileage of the car, as high mileage can indicate greater wear and tear. Check the car’s maintenance records, if available, to get an idea of how well the car has been maintained.
4. Consider Maintenance Cost
Find out about the maintenance costs of the car and make sure that they are within your budget. An older car with high mileage will have higher maintenance costs than a newer one.
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Also check the price of spare parts, the availability of spare parts in the market, and the frequency of replacement. Take into account the cost of regular maintenance such as oil changes, tire changes, etc.
Ultimate Guide On 10 Top Rated Fastest Cars Under 20k With Top Speed In 2023
When it comes to finding a fast car that can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in no time, affordable options may be limited. However, there are still some used models of sports cars and muscle cars that can be found for under $20k that have impressive 0-60 mph times.
With this review, you can find a reliable car that’s fast and stylish without breaking the bank. Here are some examples of the top-rated fastest cars for under $20000 along with their most notable features:
1. 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata

- Price: $11,155
- Powertrain: 2.0-liter Inline-4
- Horsepower: 155 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 5.7 Second
- Top Speed: 141 MPH
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is one of the most popular and affordable fastest 4-door cars under 20k on the market. The 2016 model is equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 155 hp and 148 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to hit 60 mph in 5,.7 seconds.
The six-speed manual transmission gives you a truly unique driving experience that makes the MX-5 Miata a great fast car. The Miata is also incredibly light, coming in at just 2,300 pounds.
It offers plenty of performance and value, and its classic styling ensures you’ll turn heads wherever you go. This makes it incredibly agile and responsive in turn.
The Miata’s interior is simple and straightforward, but that’s part of its charm. It has numerous amenities such as air conditioning, electric windows and locks, and Bluetooth connectivity.
2. 2017 Ford Mustang

- Price: $19,995
- Powertrain: 5.0-liter V8
- Horsepower: 435 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 4 Second
- Top Speed: 155 MPH
There is no complete list of high-performance cars without mentioning the Ford Mustang. With a 5.0-liter V8 producing up to 435 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, the 2017 Mustang packs plenty of power.
It is also equipped with an advanced suspension system that offers excellent cornering and handling characteristics. The Mustang also has a modern interior with comfortable seating for four passengers and plenty of tech features like Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system.
The 2017 Mustang is great value for money, especially if you can find a used one in good condition. Its distinctive exterior design adds to its appeal and sets it apart from other vehicles in its class.
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Despite its impressive specs, the Stinger can be found on the used market for less than $20,000. This lively vehicle handles reasonably well thanks to its stiff suspension, while its rear seats are surprisingly roomy.
3. 2019 Chevrolet Camaro

- Price: $14,995
- Powertrain: 6.2-liter V8
- Horsepower: 455 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 4.3 Second
- Top Speed: 165 MPH
The 2019 Chevrolet Camaro is an incredibly powerful and stylish car. It has a 455 hp V8 engine, allowing it to reach a top speed of 180 mph. Inside, Camaro is equipped with comfortable seats, an infotainment system, and a host of driver-assist features to make your drives more enjoyable.
Externally, the Camaro is sleek and streamlined, with a low, powerful stance. It also gets unique styling cues, like the signature “hockey stick” rear spoiler and tinted taillights.
With powerful performance, the Camaro is one of the most affordable used performance cars on the market. With its impressive power and performance, the Camaro is a great choice for anyone looking for a fast and fun car.
4. 2016 Dodge Charger

- Price: $17,500
- Powertrain: 3.6-liter V6
- Horsepower: 370 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 3.5 Second
- Top Speed: 155 MPH
With its muscular exterior, spacious interior, and powerful V8 engine, the 2016 Charger is the perfect choice for those who want to experience the power and performance of a luxury car without paying a hefty price tag.
The V8 engine produces 370 hp and 395 lb-ft of torque, offering impressive performance at an affordable price. It also has an 8-speed automatic transmission that ensures smooth and effortless shifting. The interior of the 2016 Charger is comfortable and spacious, with plenty of legroom and headroom.
The standard infotainment system includes a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port, giving you access to all the features you need. There are plenty of safety features too, including airbags, lane departure warnings, and adaptive cruise control.
5. 2014 Dodge Challenger

- Price: $13,990
- Powertrain: 3.6-liter V6
- Horsepower: 305 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 6.3 Second
- Top Speed: 154 MPH
The 2014 Dodge Challenger is an automotive icon that has been around for decades. It’s a classic muscle car that still has a lot going for it today. The 2014 Challenger is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 305 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque.
This car can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 154 mph. This is also surprisingly economical, getting up to 25 mpg on the highway. If you’re looking for the fastest turbo car under 20k, the 2014 Challenger is one of the best options out there.
Also, this car has a host of features like air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, and keyless entry. This makes it not only ideal for everyday use, but also for weekend trips or track days.
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As a bonus, many pre-owned models of Challenger are available from dealers or private sellers who can offer significant savings compared to buying new ones.
6. 2018 Hyundai Elantra

- Price: $11,550
- Powertrain: 2.0-liter Inline-4
- Horsepower: 147 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 8.4 Second
- Top Speed: 124 MPH
The 2018 Hyundai Elantra is the latest version of Hyundai’s popular compact sedan. It comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. It takes 8.4 seconds to reach a speed of 0-60 MPH.
And it’s mated to either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Elantra offers a surprisingly sporty ride and handling with a suspension that offers firm body control and responsive steering.
Inside, the Elantra is spacious and comfortable and comes with an impressive list of standard features, including an 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, wireless charging, and more.
It also offers a long list of advanced driver assistance technologies, such as a collision avoidance assistant, and a lane departure warning system.
7. 2019 Ford Maverick

- Price: $17,500
- Powertrain: 2.0-liter Inline-4
- Horsepower: 191 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 7.6 Second
- Top Speed: 110 MPH
The 2019 Ford Maverick is one of the most sought-after fastest cars under 20k to hit the used car market right now. With its sleek design, powerful powertrain, and impressive value for money, it’s no wonder the Maverick has aroused such enthusiasm.
The Maverick is powered by a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine that produces 250 hp and 277 pound-feet of torque. Also, it takes 7.6 seconds to cover the speed of 0-60MPG. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive is available as an option.
The interior of the Maverick is comfortable and luxurious, with a simple but modern design. The car features leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a 10-inch touchscreen that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In terms of safety, the Maverick comes with standard driver-assist technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
8. 2018 Kia Forte

- Price: $12,995
- Powertrain: 2.0-liter Inline-4
- Horsepower: 147 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 8.2 Second
- Top Speed: 120 MPH
The 2018 Forte is completely redesigned for this model year, coming with a sporty appearance and an impressive equipment list. It’s powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that produces an impressive 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque.
That’s enough to accelerate the Forte from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 8 seconds. The 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission provides smooth shifting and quick acceleration, while Sport mode offers a more aggressive driving experience.
The interior of this Kia Forte is equipped with the latest technology, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. It also comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, a power sunroof, and dual-zone climate control.
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The Kia Forte also comes standard with a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, making it an even more attractive option. With powerful performance, sleek looks, and advanced technology, the 2018 Kia Forte is one of the fastest used cars you can get for under $20,000 in 2023.
Whether you’re looking for a daily commuter or a weekend runner, the Forte is sure to please you.
9. 2017 Nissan Versa

- Price: $9,915
- Powertrain: 1.6-liter Inline-4
- Horsepower: 122 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 7.3 Second
- Top Speed: 110 MPH
The 2017 Nissan Versa is a five-door hatchback that offers a surprisingly spacious interior and plenty of cargo space, making it ideal for small families or those who just need a little extra storage.
It’s powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 hp and 114 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough for everyday use. The Versa is also equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that gives you smooth shifting and good fuel economy.
Additionally, the car has several advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. And with these nice features, the Nissan Versa is the most demanded fast car under 20k on the list.
10. 2019 Hyundai Accent

- Price: $15,990
- Powertrain: 1.6-liter Inline-4
- Horsepower: 132 HP
- 0-60 MPH: 8.1 Second
- Top Speed: 117 MPH
If you are looking for an affordable yet reliable fast car, look no further than the 2019 Hyundai Accent. The Accent offers a unique combination of style, comfort, performance, and efficiency at an extremely attractive price.
This compact sedan is equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission that produces up to 132 hp and 119 lb-ft of torque. The Accent also has a roomy interior with room for five passengers, as well as ample cargo space in the trunk.
In addition, the vehicle is offered in hatchback and sedan body styles. The 2019 Hyundai Accent offers the best value for money when it comes to speed and acceleration. With its engine delivering up to 132 hp, the Accent can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds and has a top speed of 187 mph.
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Moreover, the Accent offers excellent fuel economy with an EPA-rated 32 mpg city/45 mpg highway. Safety features like seven airbags, a reversing camera, blind spot detection, and lane departure warning are also standard on the Accent. And for techies, the Accent comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
FAQs Related Fastest Turbo Cars Under 20k
What is the fastest car you can get under 20k?
You can find some used fast cars or performance models that are in this price range of 20k. Please note that car availability and prices may vary by location and state. Some examples of used cars that fall within this price range and can be considered fast cars are::
- Honda S2000 (2012-2014)
- Mazda MX-5 Miata (2012-2016)
- Ford Mustang (2012-2016)
- Chevrolet Camaro (2015-2018)
- Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (2012-2017)
- Subaru Impreza WRX (2015-2018)
- Nissan 350Z (2010-2014)
- Audi A4 (2010-2014)
What is the fastest SUV under 20k?
Volkswagen Touareg V8, The Volkswagen Touareg V8 is a high-performance version of the Touareg SUV that was available from 2004 to 2010. The V8 model is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine that produces 310 hp and 302 lb-ft. the foot produces the torque.
According to Volkswagen, the V8 Touareg accelerates from 0 to 60 mp/h in around 6.8 seconds. This is considered a fast time for an SUV in this price and weight range, but it’s worth noting that performance is affected by each vehicle’s mileage, general condition, and service history.
What are the fastest AWD cars under 20k?
It can be hard to find an AWD car that’s fast and costs less than $20,000. Many power or sports cars come with AWD, but they often come with a higher price tag. However, some examples of used cars that may meet this criterion are the Subaru Impreza WRX, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, and the Audi S4.
These are all older models that will likely have high mileage and may need repairs, so it’s important to inspect them thoroughly before purchasing.
Is a Ford Mustang a good fast car?
Yes, it’s known for its powerful engines and sporty performance, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts. The Mustang has come with a variety of engine options over the years, including V6 and V8 options, which have produced varying levels of power and performance.
The latest models come with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 450 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, capable of propelling the car from 0-60 mph in under 4 seconds.
How much does it cost to make a car faster?
The cost of making a car faster can vary depending on the specific modifications and upgrades that are made. Simple upgrades like a cold air intake or performance exhaust can cost a few hundred dollars, while more extensive modifications like upgrading the engine or installing a turbocharger can cost several thousand dollars.
Do fast cars use more fuel?
Fast cars generally use more fuel than slower cars because they have more powerful engines that require more fuel to run. In addition, high-performance driving, such. driving fast, accelerating, and braking hard, consume more fuel.
In addition, some performance modifications, such as forced induction, can increase the fuel consumption of the engine. A car that is driven aggressively and at high speed will use more fuel than a car that is driven more moderately, even if both cars have similar engines and power changes.
Final Thought
Whether you’re looking for a sports car, luxury sedan, or practical hatchback, there are plenty of fast cars under $20,000 that offer excellent value for money. With so many options available, you shouldn’t have a problem finding the perfect car for your needs and budget.
The 10 cars listed above represent some of the fastest cars you can buy in 2023. Do your research to ensure you get the best bang for your buck, and remember to test drive each car before making your final decision.