You’ve Earned It!
The midlife crisis car is a tired trope that doesn’t really describe what’s actually happening here. It’s usually later in life that people have the funds needed to finally buy the car they’ve been dreaming about since they were young. If you’re tired of waiting around and are ready to treat yourself as well, here are 20 cars that are as gorgeous as they are affordable. So go ahead, have a “midlife crisis.”
1. Pontiac Firebird
This classic American muscle car is the perfect thing to perk up your midlife years. It comes with that coveted V8 engine and has bold styling that will help you stand out. Plus, depending on which year you buy, used ones can run you as little as $15,000, while more expensive ones are reasonable at $50,000 to $70,000.
2. Chevrolet Corvette
This car screams sleek and stylish and is surprisingly aerodynamic with its wide stance and exotic look. It also has that V8 engine and was built for sharp handling and speed in mind. Buying a brand new one can easily get you into $100,000 territory, so consider buying a used one instead. Either way, the Corvette is considered America’s quintessential sports car.
3. Porsche 718 Cayman
A Porsche is a classic European design that many people treat themselves with later in life. It’s best known for its luxurious interior but can still provide high speeds with sharp handling. This one can also reach the $70,000 point if you choose to buy new, so consider used instead.
4. Chevrolet Camaro
The Camaro is both classic and affordable and is a top muscle car pick for many. It simply looks tough, with an aggressive build and a design to match. Plus, you can get a newer one for as little as $30,000, but you can still pay extra for something a bit fancier. Either way, this car has some history to it and will heighten your street presence.
5. Lexus RC F
If you want a bold and stylish car, consider Lexus. The RC F has a beautiful design, with a luxury interior and that iconic V8 engine. It runs around $70,000 to $80,000, but that’s a relatively fair price for a brand-new luxury car.
6. Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
The CT4-V is known as a sleeper sports sedan, and it has a lot to offer. From its speedy engine to its performance brakes to its high-end interior, there’s a lot to like. Plus, it has all the sporty touches you’ll want, making it a solid pick at around $60,000.
7. BMW 4-Series
For some people, a BMW is as fancy as it gets. This upscale coupe has everything from a long hood to a tech-heavy interior. It ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 but feels and performs as luxuriously as it looks.
8. Porsche 911
If you have your heart set on a Porsche but want a different model, consider the 911. It’s quite recognizable thanks to its coupe profile and round headlights, but that stylish flair can cost you. While newer ones easily go above $100,000, you can buy yourself something used for cheaper.
9. Jaguar F-Type
Jaguar is also known for its stylish and sleek design, and it has everything from long hoods to sculpted sides. You can get one with a V8 engine, too, with the addition of a premium interior and a wide front grille. Either way, this beauty can cost you a pretty penny at around $80,000, but it certainly feels exotic.
10. Chevrolet Monte Carlo
The Monte Carlo is an older classic car, which means you can pay much less if you decide to buy it used. The most iconic models hail from the 70s and 80s, so expect to pay around $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the state of the car. Either way, this is the choice for the nostalgic buyer.
11. Aston Martin Vantage
This sleek and stylish car can come in a convertible or coupe form. Either way, it’s known for its elegant British roots and boasts a luxurious interior with advanced driving modes. Since it is the pinnacle of luxury British sports cars, be ready to pay around $150,000. But hey, it’s not like it’s a million-dollar Lamborghini.
12. Audi TT
If you enjoy the minimalist and modern designs of Audi, then the TT Quattro is the pick for you. Since it’s been discontinued, you’ll have to buy used, which can still run up in price. Regardless, this car feels very design-forward with a futuristic interior you’re sure to love.
13. Alfa Romeo Spider
This classic Italian roadster has been around for a while, so you can treat yourself to a vintage model. The price for used models depends on the year and condition, but ranges from $10,000 to $40,000. Despite the age, it still looks quite exotic and timeless, and you get to take advantage of those Italian engines.
14. Ford Mustang
Ford is best known for its All-American cars. Well, the Mustang delivers on these fronts with a bold, aggressive, and somewhat retro design. It has the usual V8 engine and is considered an icon at the affordable price of around $30,000.
Hans-Jürgen Neubert on Wikimedia
15. Porsche Boxster
This sporty roadster can cost you a pretty penny at around $70,000, but it may just be worth it. It’s more affordable than the 911 and comes with a compact and clean design. It’s also got very precise handling, which can be a perk for driving enthusiasts.
16. BMW Z4
Another BMW worth considering is the Z4, which is a two-seat roadster with an attention-grabbing design. You can choose all-wheel drive and take advantage of its plush interior and touchscreen tech. Plus, this luxury car is relatively affordable, starting off at $55,000 for a newer model.
17. Mazda MX-5
Mazda’s MX-5 is also known for its small and lightweight design. It feels a bit playful while still paying homage to the classic roadster look. And in terms of price, a new model is very affordable at only around $30,000.
18. Mercedes-Benz SL
Mercedes-Benz has been the pinnacle of luxury for ages, and it’s easy to see why. Their SL comes with a turbocharged inline-six engine or the usual V8. It’s also comfortable and has that iconic, mature, and refined look some drivers crave. It is on the pricier end, though, starting at around $115,000.
19. Audi R8
Another Audi worth contemplating is the R8, which is low, wide, and well-designed. It has a V10 engine and lightning-fast acceleration, making it a fun pick for speed demons. It’s a supercar that can make your daily drives far more fun, but it’s quite pricey. You’ll likely have to get a used model, but even that can run you more than $150,000.
20. Lotus Evora
A lot of mid-lifers choose Lotus for their car dreams, and it’s abundantly evident why. The Evora, in particular, is a lightweight coupe with a unique look and a subtle supercar vibe. The interior is minimalistic, with an emphasis placed on speed and performance. Just be ready to pay around $100,000 for a used one.
