For those looking to save money, a used car can be a fantastic option as it offers superb value for money. However, finding a reliable used car in excellent condition for a reasonable price can be challenging. These 15 cars have proven their worth to the original owners and are ready to serve the next buyer just as well. Ahead are some excellent options, one even priced as low as $1500, based on US price guides from mid-September 2023.

BMW 330Ci ($3000-$25,000)

Compared to other M cars, the 330Ci is relatively affordable on the used market for those who want sporty coupes. It has a 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 225 HP when paired with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic. However, you should note that BMW has discontinued this model, so you might need help finding a well-maintained car.

Jeep Grand Cherokee ($3500-$18,000)

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size vehicle with outstanding off-road capability and on-road performance. Models have a standard 3.6L Pentastar V6, a 5.7L HEMI V8, or a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a plug-in hybrid option. Buyers love this SUV because it can also be considered a classy luxury car, in addition to its power.

Infiniti FX ($5000-$25,000)

Nissan produced the FX under Infiniti, a division dedicated to luxury vehicles. The base trim FX35 of this mid-size crossover SUV has a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 280 HP, while the high-performance FX45 has a V8 producing 330 HP. They have a sleek look and comfortable interior with leather seats, a sunroof, and a Bose audio system. They also have navigation and rear-seat entertainment systems, with heated and cooled seats.

Jaguar XJ ($1500-$15,000)

Jaguar Land Rover released the last generation of XJs in 2009 with several powerful engines, including a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 producing 340 HP, a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 with 510 HP, and an XJR version with a V8 engine generating 550 HP. This variety of choices, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, increases its demand in the used market. Ensure you look out for rust in the steel subframes and places where panels join. 

Honda CR-Z ($7500-$19,000)

The CR-Z (Compact Renaissance-Zero) has a 1.5-liter gasoline engine and an electric motor generating 130 HP. This two-seater made up for its low power as a fuel-saving sports car with a relatively affordable price tag. Besides handling and a lightweight design, the electric CR-Z is an excellent used car due to its continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and front-wheel drive.

Ford Fiesta ST ($9500-$20,000)

This hot hatchback leverages the success of the 2008-2017 Fiesta. Although Ford discontinued the Fiesta ST in 2019, the car appears often on the used market for its powerful engines, sleek designs, and impressive handling. While the modified models are more than standard trims in the market, you can still find the latter among tuned cars that are back in stock.

Chevrolet Corvette ($10,000-$60,000)

General Motors has manufactured and marketed this two-door, two-seater sports car under the Chevrolet marque since 1953. The C8, which is the current generation, debuted in the 2020 model year with a mid-engine layout for the first time in Corvette history. The base trim level Stingray has a V8 engine that produces 490 HP, while the Z06 and E-Ray trims generate 670 and 655 HP, respectively. 

BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé ($11,000-$70,000)

This four-door combines the looks of a coupe with the functions of a sedan. When BMW released it in 2012, buyers could choose the 3L turbocharged inline-six generating 315 HP or the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 445 HP. When buying a used 6 Series Gran Coupé, don’t focus only on the high-quality leather or Alcantara in its luxurious interior. Check out the air conditions, warning lights, and other electrical features.

Kia Stinger ($20,000-$42,000)

The Stinger is for people who choose features, performance, and value over established brand names. Regarding power, it has a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 300 HP or a 3.3L twin-turbocharged V6 engine with 368 HP. It has an 8-speed automatic transmission and an optional all-wheel or rear-wheel drive. It also has a touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof (on some trims), and driver-assistance features like blind-spot monitoring.

Audi RS4 ($22,000-$50,000)

The RS4 is the fastest, most sports-focused car based on the A4’s “B” automobile platform. The latest models have a 2.9 TFSI V6 twin-turbo engine, an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, and Quattro all-wheel drive generating 450 HP. Its spacious interior and large cargo area make it the best choice for those who want a family car that can also handle track day.

Maserati Granturismo ($22,000-$85,000)

Even after a few years of use, the Maserati GranTurismo is one of few cars that stays elegant and sophisticated while retaining the power under its hood. The car is a two-door, four-seater coupe with a spacious interior for the front passengers and a smaller rear seat that can provide extra storage. Buyers can choose the Modena engine with 483 HP, the Trofeo with 542 HP, or the triple-motor electric version with 750 HP.

Lexus IS F ($25,000-$50,000)

Lexus designed the IS F model in 2008 as a high-performance sports sedan to compete with established German models like the BMW M3. They gave it a unique blend of power, luxury, and Japanese reliability to beat the existing competition. It had a powerful 5.0L naturally-aspirated V8 engine pumping out 416 HP, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and a rear-wheel drive with comfortable bolstered seats.

BMW M2 ($37,000-$120,000)

The BMW M2 is a high-performance luxury car with thrilling acceleration, sharp handling, and an affordable price tag compared to other vehicles. Regarding power, this rear-wheel drive car has a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 453 HP. Buyers can choose from the less common six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic according to preference. The M2 is on this list because owners’ reviews have tagged it as depreciation-proof.

Ferrari 360 Modena ($90,000-$320,000)

Ferrari released this stunning mid-engine sports car in 1999. It had a powerful V8 with terrific handling, an automated clutch transmission, or a rarer manual. The price of a used 360 Modena in excellent condition can vary significantly depending on model year, mileage, condition, and features. The recent versions are cheaper, those with lower mileage cost more, and special features increase the price.

Lamborghini Gallardo ($95,000-$220,000)

The Gallardo has a roaring V10 engine with horsepower ranging from 400 to 570, depending on the model year and variant. This feature makes this Italian speedster the dream car for many car enthusiasts. Rather than buying an exorbitant $233,000, you can snatch up a used version for up to half the price. Still, remember to check for troubles like clocking, track abuse, and cover-ups from crashes.