Some performance cars never get the spotlight they deserve. Maybe they were overshadowed by flashier rivals, misunderstood when they launched, or simply ahead of their time. Whatever the reason, these cars deliver serious thrills without the collector price tag.
In this list, we’re diving into 14 performance cars that are criminally undervalued. We’re looking at their power, handling, rarity, and why they deserve more respect than their price tags suggest. If you love finding overlooked automotive treasures, this one’s for you.
Aston Martin DB9
- It might seem odd to include an Aston Martin on this list, but the DB9 is a fantastic grand tourer that’s also surprisingly affordable, considering that it is an Aston Martin, after all. The DB9 is possibly the most fabulous Aston Martin of the modern era, thanks to its incredible design and the 5.9-liter V12 engine under the hood, producing 450 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque.
The V12 sounded amazing, and it’s still one of the best engines Aston Martin’s ever had. Plus, the DB9 had a beautiful interior that stayed comfortable, even during long drives. Despite their rarity and prowess, the average value of a DB9, according to Classic.com, is around $51,000, with the lowest sale figure of around $25,000.
2015 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1
With so many choices on the market, finding the perfect muscle car isn’t easy, but the 2015 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 deserves a serious look. Somehow, this beast has flown under the radar, making it one of the most underrated performance cars out there. With a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 cranking out 580 horsepower and 556 lb-ft of torque, it delivers the kind of raw power that muscle car fans crave. But it’s not just about brute force — the ZL1 brings handling, comfort, and modern tech to the table, making it a true performance bargain.
Car and Driver shares that it has a top speed of 181 mph and a 0-60 time of just 4.1 seconds, the 2015 ZL1 is no slouch. Its exterior design has aged well, still looking just as aggressive as the latest Camaro models. Plus, it’s not expensive either. Classic.com states that the average value is $48,841, but we found one that sells for less.
2017 Chevrolet C7 Corvette Z06
With all the buzz around the current Chevrolet Corvette Z06, it’s easy to overlook just how impressive past versions are. The 2017 C7 Corvette Z06 is a true gem. Under the hood, a massive 6.2-liter supercharged V8 delivers 650 hp and 637 lb-ft of torque.
The eight-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth, seamless shifts. With a top speed of 205 mph and a blistering 0-60 time of just 2.95 seconds, the C7 Z06 remains just as sleek, modern, and aggressive as it was at launch. Plus, it comes with plenty of tech, such as a Bose audio system and Apple and Android connectivity.
First-Generation Audi R8
The Audi R8 has now left the Audi lineup for good, but the first generation is, in our opinion, still the best. Thanks to market values, it won’t cost an arm and a leg on the used market. The R8 originally came with Audi’s 4.2-liter FSI V8 from the RS4, but Audi later introduced a version with the 5.2-liter V10 borrowed from the Lamborghini Gallardo.
The V10 might steal the spotlight, but don’t overlook the V8. It brought 414 horsepower to the table and delivered one of the most intoxicating exhaust notes Audi has ever produced. It wasn’t just about raw power; this engine had character, blending precision engineering with a soundtrack that made every drive feel special.
Ferrari 612 Scaglietti
The Top Gear race when Jeremy Clarkson drove the Ferrari 612 Scalgietti showed us how good the Ferrari four-seater could be. Replacing the 456, the 612 debuted in 2004 with a powerful 5.8-liter V12 under the hood. However, its design didn’t quite capture the same appeal as the 456.
But as Clarkson showed us, that all changed once you got behind the wheel of the 612. Even with its longer wheelbase, this Ferrari handled with precision, making it an ideal grand tourer for long-distance drives. Its unconventional styling kept it from winning universal praise, but that just means it’s a hidden gem. With prices dipping below $100,000, it’s one of the best performance bargains out there.
2015 Ford Mustang GT
Some generations of the Ford Mustang are a bit hit-and-miss, although the 2024 model might be one of the best yet. However, the 2015 Mustang GT is an excellent choice for those on a more budget thanks to the 5.0-liter V8 with 435 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.
According to Carsales.com the average value of Mustang GT ranges from $38,000 to $45,000 for coupes and $44,500 to $47,900 for convertibles as of March 2025. which is extremely good for a V8 muscle car producing over 400 hp. In our opinion, the 2015 Mustang is one of the best-looking models Ford has ever designed, making it even more tempting to grab a deal on the current generation while prices are still within reach.
Ferrari 348TB
Surprisingly, there’s another Ferrari that can be had for under $100,000: the 348TB. When it first hit the scene, it didn’t get the warmest welcome. Rivals from Lamborghini and even Chevrolet outpaced it in raw speed and power, leaving the 348TB somewhat overlooked. But over time, enthusiasts have started to see it in a new light.
Its 3.4-liter V8 may “only” produce 296 horsepower, but it delivers an unforgettable soundtrack, and the driving experience is pure Ferrari. Power is sent through a transverse manual transmission—a design inspired by the legendary Ferrari 312T Formula 1 car. Meanwhile, its sleek, wedge-like proportions are gaining appreciation, helping the 348 find its place among classic Ferraris. With average prices still hovering around $70,000, according to Classic.com, this might just be one of the best-kept secrets in the Ferrari world.
Lotus Elan M100
Later versions of the Lotus Elan are regularly overlooked due to the iconic status earlier examples attained. Yet the Elan M100 is easily one of the best, and, with its modernized design and superb handling, it might be the best Elan of the lot.
Under the hood sat an Isuzu engine. This may not be the first name that comes to mind for performance, but this was no ordinary powerplant. It was a twin-cam, turbocharged gem that cranked out 165 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. In a lightweight chassis, that was more than enough to make this car an absolute riot in the corners. Its independent suspension at both the front and rear only added to the fun, delivering sharp handling and a truly engaging drive.
Nissan 370Z
With the arrival of the 2024 Nissan Z, some of its predecessors are starting to fade into the background, including the underrated 370Z. A solid step up from the 350Z, the 370Z packed a 3.7-liter VQ37 V6 under the hood, producing 332 horsepower. Buyers had a choice between a seven-speed automatic with a torque converter or the enthusiast-favorite six-speed manual.
While it may not grab headlines like the latest Z, the 370Z still offers a raw, engaging driving experience that’s getting harder to find in modern sports cars.
Despite one or two flaws, the 370Z remains a sports car bargain. On average, you may only pay around $25,000 for one in good condition. You can expect to pay slightly more for a manual version because they are more desirable.
Third-Generation Dodge Viper
The early versions of the Dodge Viper were monsters and often lacked crucial driving aids such as ABS and even airbags. By the time the third generation came around, Dodge had calmed down. The Viper was still a raw sports car, but it tried to look after the driver instead of killing them.
The ZB I generation underwent a massive redesign, with updated styling modernizing the Viper. Under the hood of the RoadstRoadster 500 hp 8.3-liter Viper V10 engine, which increased to 510 hp in the coupe version. According to Classic.com, you can pick up a third-generation Viper for around $61,000, with the lowest recorded sale of $33,000.
2004 Porsche 911 Carrera
Nearly every generation of the Porsche 911 is a winner, but the 2004 911 Carrera often falls into the shadows thanks to the more modern versions. Under the hood of the 2004 Carrera is a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 325 hp and some of the smoothest power delivery of any sports car. It’s one of the cleanest designs of any Porsche 911, with soft lines and uncluttered bodywork letting it pop.
Depending on the version of the 2004 911, you can pay different amounts. The cheapest is the 4S Cabriolet, which can sell for around $16,900, while the most affordable you would pay for a Carrera coupe is roughly $27,000.
2006 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class SL 55 AMG
While most famous for its luxury sedans, Mercedes also knows a thing or two about performance. From 2001 to 2011, it produced the SL-Class, which was a luxury grand tourer with a massive V8 under the hood. Thanks to AMG tuning, this stunning roadster 500 hp.
The speed figures are impressive, too. 0-60 mph takes just 4.3 seconds, while the top speed of the SL 55 AMG is 155 mph. An electronically adjustable rear spoiler aids in creating downforce, and for those summer days, the Mercedes also comes with an optional panoramic sunroof.
