Just because your budget is tight doesn’t mean you can find yourself in a fast, fun car. In fact, $20,000 is all you need to snag a serious contender like the Dodge Challenger SRT8 or Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator. Here are four of the fastest used muscle cars under $20,000 that will have you melting tires in no time. 

• Dodge Challenger SRT8
• 2004 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator
• 2014 Ford Mustang GT (S197)
• 2015 Chevrolet Camaro SS

Is the Dodge Challenger SRT8 one of the fastest used muscle cars under $20,000?

The Dodge Challenger SRT8 gave way to the SRT 392 and R/T Scat Pack in 2015. However, before it did so, it made colossal power and established itself as one of the fastest used muscle cars you can get today for under $20,000. Specifically, the SRT8 packed a 6.4L Hemi V8 and produced 470 horsepower and the same figure in torque. That’s enough to motivate the 4,160-lb brute to 60 mph in around 4.3 seconds. 

Unlike the newer R/T Scat Packs, the SRT8 is a bargain; Kelley Blue Book (KBB) says that the modern muscle car has a value of around $20,000 with average mileage. 

How much horsepower does a Cobra Terminator have?

The 2003 and 2004 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator are fast, powerful SN-95s with supercharged 4.6L V8s and a sinister fascia. Better yet, the Cobra Terminators packed 390 horsepower. That’s not bad for a Mustang from 2003. It’s not just tire-shredding pantomime; TopSpeed says the 390-horsepower Terminator could hit 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. 

Moreover, savvy shoppers can find a Cobra Terminator in good condition with average mileage for around $18,933. Of course, if you want an example with lower mileage on the clock, you’ll have to spend more. 

Is a 2014 Mustang GT fast?

The 2014 Ford Mustang GT is the last model year in the S197 generation and is one of the fastest used muscle cars under $20,000. Specifically, KBB says a 2014 Ford Mustang GT with average mileage has a fair purchase price of around $19,921. In terms of performance, the GT doesn’t disappoint; it produces 420 horsepower from its 5.0L Coyote V8. 

In Car and Driver’s testing, a 2013 Ford Mustang GT managed to hit 60 mph from a standstill in just 4.5 seconds. Moreover, the Coyote engine is a willing recipient of bolt-on and forced-induction upgrades to swell horsepower figures. Of course, you’ll have to stretch if you want the sharpened, collectible, and track-ready Boss 302. 

Is the Camaro SS one of the fastest used muscle cars under $20,000?

While the most recent Chevrolet Camaro SS’ looks are controversial, its performance is above debate. However, you’ll have to look at older models to get one for around $20,000. Specifically, the 2015 Chevy Camaro SS is a performance bargain with 426 horsepower courtesy of a 6.2L V8 mill. Moreover, the 1LE-equipped cars hit 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds in Car and Driver’s testing, making them as fast as a comparable Mustang GT. 

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