Underdog Speed: 10 Used Sports Cars Hiding In Plain Sight

In the bustling world of automotive enthusiasts, finding a hidden gem among used sports cars can be a thrilling adventure. These underdog speedsters blend performance with subtlety, offering exhilarating drives without drawing excessive attention. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a passionate driver looking for value, these ten used sports cars deserve a closer look.

Stealthy Performance: The Chevrolet SS and Pontiac GTO

2017 Chevrolet SS: A Sleeper Sedan with V8 Power

The 2017 Chevrolet SS stands out in the used sports car market with its unassuming four-door sedan design. Underneath its bland exterior lies a formidable 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 415 horsepower. This powertrain propels the SS from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, offering a thrilling drive without the flashy looks of typical supercars.

• Pros:
  • Four-door sleeper sedan
  • Spacious cabin
  • Exclusive model
• Cons:
  • Bland styling
  • Outdated interior
  • Poor fuel economy

2006 Pontiac GTO: A Legendary V8 Muscle

The 2006 Pontiac GTO brings back the glory of classic American muscle with a modern twist. Equipped with a 6.0-liter V8 engine delivering 400 horsepower, the GTO accelerates to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 178 mph. Its understated design hides a potent performance machine, making it a prized find for enthusiasts.

• Pros:
  • Powerful V8 engine
  • Comfortable daily driver
  • High-quality interior materials
• Cons:
  • Soft suspension
  • Long shifter throws
  • Small trunk

Luxury Meets Sport: Lexus and Chrysler Models

Lexus GS460: Reliable Powerhouse

The 2008 Lexus GS460 offers a perfect blend of luxury and performance. With a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 342 horsepower, it sprints from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. Priced around $27,000, the GS460 provides a smooth and powerful driving experience wrapped in Lexus’s signature comfort and reliability.

2006 Chrysler 300C SRT8: Muscle in Disguise

The 2006 Chrysler 300C SRT8 is another excellent example of a sleeper sports car. Its 6.1-liter V8 engine generates 425 horsepower, allowing it to reach 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds. Despite its heavy and bulky appearance, the 300C SRT8 offers impressive performance and a spacious interior, making it a unique choice in the used sports car market.

• Pros:
  • Powerful V8 engine
  • Comfortable ride
  • Feature-rich interior
• Cons:
  • Spongy brake pedal
  • Heavy vehicle
  • Cramped cabin space

Hidden Gems: Hyundai, Lexus, and More

2014 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 R Spec: Unexpected Power

The 2014 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 R Spec surprises many with its robust 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 429 horsepower. Capable of reaching 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, this model combines everyday practicality with sports car performance. Priced around $19,000, the Genesis 5.0 R Spec is an excellent option for those seeking a powerful yet affordable ride.

2013 Lexus IS350: Smooth and Powerful

The 2013 Lexus IS350 is a testament to Lexus’s ability to blend luxury with performance. Its 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers 306 horsepower, allowing the sedan to sprint to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. With an average price of $15,500, the IS350 offers a refined driving experience with a powerful engine, making it a standout in the used sports car category.

• Pros:
  • Smooth, powerful V6
  • Excellent ride quality
  • High-quality interior
• Cons:
  • Limited backseat space
  • Tight headroom

Versatile and Powerful: SUVs and Sedans

2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer SS: SUV with Muscle

The 2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer SS breaks the mold by offering SUV practicality with sports car performance. Its 6.0-liter V8 engine produces 390 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of just over 5 seconds. Priced around $15,000, the Trailblazer SS provides ample cabin space and towing capacity, making it a versatile choice for those needing both performance and utility.

• Pros:
  • Powerful V8 engine
  • High towing capacity
  • Spacious cabin
• Cons:
  • Sub-par build quality
  • Iffy ride quality
  • Poor fuel economy

2004 Infiniti M45: Rare and Capable

The 2004 Infiniti M45 is a rare find in the used sports car market. With a 4.5-liter V8 engine generating 340 horsepower, it accelerates to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. Despite its quirky styling and limited production years, the M45 offers solid performance and a comfortable ride, making it a hidden gem worth considering.

• Pros:
  • Powerful V8 engine
  • Capable handling
  • Feature-rich interior
• Cons:
  • Limited rear-seat space
  • Cramped trunk

Compact Powerhouses: Volvo and Ford

2004 Volvo V70R: Wagon with Speed

The 2004 Volvo V70R is an unexpected contender in the sports car segment. Its 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine delivers 300 horsepower, allowing it to reach 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. Combining the practicality of a wagon with impressive performance, the V70R is priced around $10,000, making it an affordable option for those seeking speed without sacrificing utility.

• Pros:
  • Balanced ride and handling
  • Comfortable front seats
  • Comprehensive safety features
• Cons:
  • Cramped rear seats
  • Noticeable turbo lag

2013 Ford Taurus SHO: Performance Sedan

Rounding out the list is the 2013 Ford Taurus SHO, a performance-oriented sedan that packs a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 365 horsepower. It accelerates to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds and boasts a top speed of 155 mph. At an average price of $10,000, the Taurus SHO offers a powerful drive combined with the practicality of a full-size sedan.

• Pros:
  • Excellent feature set
  • Comfortable ride
  • Strong engine performance
• Cons:
  • Feels heavy on the move
  • Cramped cabin

These ten used sports cars may not always grab the spotlight, but they offer exceptional performance and value for those willing to look beyond the obvious choices. From powerful sedans to versatile SUVs, each model brings something unique to the table, making them worthy contenders in the used sports car market of 2024.