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Most people have no clue how fast exotic cars depreciate. That means if you drive around in a 15-year-old luxury sports car, they’ll just assume you’re loaded. Jokes on them, you can buy these three exotics for less than a used V8 muscle car.

  • Maserati GranTurismo (2007–2019, First Generation)
  • Jaguar XK (X150, 2007–2015 in the U.S.)
  • Mercedes-Benz SL (R230, 2001–2011)

Doug DeMuro has been reviewing cars for years. Today, he also runs the Cars & Bids auction site so he keeps careful tabs on how fast various enthusiast cars are depreciation. Here’s his pick for cheap exotics that will make you look rich.

Maserati GranTurismo (2007–2019, First Generation)

The first-generation Maserati GranTurismo is a true exotic car. Built from 2007 to 2019, is a grand tourer with super car looks that has aged incredibly well. It was available as both a coupe and GranCabrio convertible, powered by Ferrari-derived 4.2-liter and 4.7-liter V8 engines, making as much as 454 horsepower in later models. Doug DeMuro points out that these cars now sell for $15,000 to $20,000, a fraction of their original six-figure price tags. Despite the bargain cost, the design is still nearly indistinguishable from the latest GranTurismo, giving owners a way to look like they spent far more than they did.

DeMuro highlights the timeless good looks of early GranTurismos: “It still looks basically identical to the Maserati GranTurismo that was being sold in 08, 09. And so 95% of people driving around don’t even really know you have an older car. And 99.7% of people don’t know you’re driving a $15,000 car.”

I’d add that this Maseratis, especially the four-door Quattroporte is such a popular budget flex that you try to roll up to a Cars and Coffee meet in yours and someone might laugh in your face. DeMuro does admit that a used 2009 sports car can have issues. “The early ones at that price point have probably been milled up. They probably have been neglected. They’re probably not that great to drive.”

Curious what’s for sale right now? Check out used Maserati listings near you.

Jaguar XK (X150, 2007–2015 in the U.S.)

The second-generation Jaguar XK, known internally as the X150, ran from 2006 to 2014 globally, with sales continuing in the United States through 2015. Offered as both a sleek coupe and a convertible, it came with 4.2-liter and 5.0-liter V8 engines, including the supercharged XKR for those who wanted extra punch. These Jags regularly sell for $10,000 to $15,000, putting a classically styled luxury grand tourer within reach for almost anyone. While the tech and outright performance may lag behind modern sports cars, its elegant design and reputation still project the image of wealth and sophistication. Less flashy super car and more exotic grand tourer.

DeMuro feels the looks are timeless. “It is still a shockingly good buy if your main goal is to just get something cheap that makes you look rich.” He adds, “It is a beautiful car. It has aged well.” I would argue that the XK’s looks haven’t aged as well as the Maserati Gran Turismo or an Aston Martin Vantage. But you might look like someone who just bought their dream Jag for a ton of money ten years ago and who is still driving it. So this one is more stealth wealth than flexing.

Though they have a cheap entry-price, these Jaguars might cost you in the long run. “It is an irrational car. It is probably unreliable and problematic. I know from experience that V8 can be tricky.”

Want to know more? See used Jaguar listings nearby.

Mercedes-Benz SL (R230, 2001–2011)

The fifth-generation Mercedes-Benz SL, known as the R230, was built from 2001 through 2011, including the early 2000s models that now represent the best bargains. Sold exclusively as a two-seat convertible with a power-retractable hardtop, the SL offered everything from a reliable SL500 with a 5.0-liter V8 to high-performance AMG models like the SL55, SL63, and SL65. Early R230s can now be had for just $7,000 to $10,000, roughly the same price as a used Jaguar XK. When kept stock and in tasteful colors like silver, gold, or black, the SL still looks like a luxury status symbol.

DeMuro feels this can put off stealth wealth vibes with this one too. “If you buy the rich guy specs…a silver, a gold, maybe a black on the stock wheels, it is a d— good purchase for $8,000 that it may even be reliable.” I’ve long called the supercharged SL the German Hellcat. The AMG is a true exotic car and its depreciation makes it one of the best options around. The only downside is Uber drivers also own Mercedes. So this isn’t a car to buy if you want to flex, it’s a car that signals you have taste.

An old Mercedes also isn’t without its issue. “Now, I don’t want to sit here and say the Mercedes was a reliable car. They have other issues, like the body control suspension, etc., that will make them expensive to own.”

Ready to find your reliable drop top? See used Mercedes SL listings near you.

You can see DeMuro’s original video embedded below:

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Staff Writer

Henry Cesari

Henry Cesari is a MotorBiscuit Staff Writer who brings his deep interest in vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles to the site. Henry covers Ford models daily, including the F-150. Having restored his first classic car at just 16 years old, Henry has wrenched on everything from overland campers to Japanese motorcycles and even pre-war Bugattis. He’s an avid attendee at local car shows and genuinely enjoys connecting with fellow auto enthusiasts. Henry earned a Bachelor’s in Anthropology and English from the University of Vermont.

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