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If an affordable used sports car is your heart’s desire, consider a second-hand Subaru WRX or a pre-owned Ford Mustang.
Shoppers looking for used sports cars have plenty of options, which can make choosing one a daunting task.
Buying a used sports car can come with a unique set of considerations and caveats you should know about. Based on years of real-world testing and research, here are the two sports cars I most often recommend to readers, friends and family—plus a few pointers to help you find the best used sports car you can for your dollar.
Few affordable sports cars can match the recognition and clout of the WRX. For decades, this speedy version of Subaru’s small sedan, the Impreza, has been built around a high-performing engine and the latest Subaru all-wheel drive (AWD) tech.
The result is a highly proven sports car whose driving experience is intended to excite and inspire confidence, regardless of the weather and road conditions. This sports car is designed for year-round use, and it isn’t afraid of snow and ice.
With standard AWD for SUV-like traction, as well as sharper handling in fair weather, the WRX is a sports car that can spend more time on the road and less time in storage—and that means a better return on your investment.
The last-generation Subaru WRX covered model-years 2015 to 2021. Point your search towards a 2018 or newer model to take advantage of various updates and enhancements applied mid-cycle, including updated interiors, updated exteriors, a new instrument cluster, new lighting safety features, and retuned steering, clutch, suspension and shifter to improve overall feel.
Considering a used WRX for year-round performance motoring? Steer clear of any model that’s been modified using non-factory parts and software, even if those have been removed. Some modifications can cause wear or damage that’s not covered by the remaining warranty and could result in unpleasant surprises for your wallet.
Assume the used WRX you’re considering needs new tires and brakes, until you’ve got proof to the contrary.
Both manual and automatic (CVT) options were available in this generation WRX, and while most owners haven’t reported powertrain trouble, test-driving shoppers should be on the lookout for unwanted sounds or vibrations from the clutch on manual-equipped models, which can be a sign of trouble.
If you’re going with an automatic, be triple-sure all transmission servicing and maintenance is up to date. Skipped or stretched servicing and inspection intervals can shorten the life of this component and cost you money.
You’ll pay more for fuel and insurance with a WRX than the more conventional Impreza model on which it’s based, but dollar-for-dollar, the WRX’s year-round capability and eye-widening traction make it tough to beat.
Auto insurance quotes are based on several factors, including your age, location and more. Here’s the estimated monthly cost to insure a 2020 Subaru WRX 4DR AWD for these driver profiles:
Quotes provided by Ratehub*. (Ratehub and MoneySense are both owned by Ratehub Inc.) Policies include $1 million liability coverage, $1,000 collision deductible and $1,000 comprehensive deductible, with discounts for bundling and UBI.
For some, driving a sports car is best left for special occasions, on nice days, and after hours of meticulous detailing and waxing beneath the summer sun.
If you’re looking for a used sports car that you can pamper, fuss over and store indoors when the weather isn’t sports-car-friendly, then chances are you’ve heard of the Ford Mustang.
The sixth-generation Mustang marked a significant leap forward from its predecessors. It arrived for model-year 2015 and remained on sale through 2023. It was replaced by an all-new, seventh-generation Mustang for model-year 2024.
If you’re a former owner feeling the itch to take the wheel again years later, you’ll find that the sixth-generation Mustang offers this car’s best-yet performance. If a sixth-generation Mustang will be your first sports car, you’ll find a selection of models from mild to wild, and options to perfectly match your desired blend of performance, efficiency and even top-down motoring.
Both coupe and convertible options are available, as well as powerful EcoBoost turbo four-cylinder engines with a high-efficiency punch. The Coyote 5-litre V8 is a gem, with four variable cams and a free-breathing exhaust that keeps the party going to 7,000 RPM when you keep your foot down.
The slick, quick, six-speed stick and heavy-but-precise clutch pedal action help draw enthusiast drivers into the experience, roof optional.
Manual or automatic? Coupe or convertible? Four cylinders or eight? Shoppers love choices, and the sixth-generation Mustang offers plenty.
It’s also backed by one of the widest-reaching dealer networks in the country for servicing and support. This generation Mustang comes with the backing of previous Motor Trend Car of the Year awards, as well as the 2023 Best Value in America award in the sports car segment from Vincentric, which reports that the Mustang outperformed a half-dozen competitors by coming in below expected operating costs by over 7%.
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For the best possible experience with your new-to-you Mustang, seek out a factory-stock model that’s never been modified with non-factory software or parts, which could void remaining warranty.
Have a professional determine where the tires, brakes, battery and fluids (including engine oil and filter) lie within their useful life, budgeting for replacements if necessary.
Carefully inspect the top on convertible models for signs of rips, tears, abrasion, wear or rubbing. If you notice any, the roof assembly and hinges may require adjustment in a dealer setting. Open and close the motorized roof several times on your test drive, checking the owner’s manual for instructions. If the roof fails to complete its range of motion, or if you notice any error messages or unwanted sounds, have a professional investigate.
Be sure to maintain the battery in your used Mustang with a trickle charger if you won’t be driving it for extended periods, as this can prevent headaches and extend the lifespan of the battery, saving you money.
A healthy used Ford Mustang from later in this generation will put some of the industry’s most desirable performance technologies at your fingertips, as well as a high-performance, high-efficiency punch for a package that returns maximum excitement for both your purchase dollars and your fuel dollars.
Auto insurance quotes are based on several factors, including your age, location and more. Here’s the estimated monthly cost to insure a 2020 Ford Mustang 2DR for these driver profiles:
Quotes provided by Ratehub*. (Ratehub and MoneySense are both owned by Ratehub Inc.) Policies include $1 million liability coverage, $1,000 collision deductible and $1,000 comprehensive deductible, with discounts for bundling and UBI.
Affiliate (monetized) links can sometimes result in a payment to MoneySense (owned by Ratehub Inc.), which helps our website stay free to our users. If a link has an asterisk (*) or is labelled as “Featured,” it is an affiliate link. If a link is labelled as “Sponsored,” it is a paid placement, which may or may not have an affiliate link. Our editorial content will never be influenced by these links. We are committed to looking at all available products in the market. Where a product ranks in our article, and whether or not it’s included in the first place, is never driven by compensation. For more details, read our MoneySense Monetization policy.
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