20 Sports Cars From The 2000s Still Worth Buying Today

The 2000s were a decade of rapid technological advancements, one where flip phones turned into smartphones and laptops were finally making some gains on desktop computers. It was, arguably, the decade of the Fast And Furious franchise, and one could even argue that it was the rise of tuning culture across most of the United States. Above all, though, it was the decade of the electronic uprising in our sporty cars. The first flappy paddles found their way into up-market supercars, and even the more mundane machinery came with a host of electronic aids to keep them in line.

Some enjoyed having their skills behind the wheel complimented by the electronic suspension, self-leveling dampers, four-wheeled steering, and other clever robotics that made driving fast a bit easier. The purists, however, did not like the rise of electronic aids and kept searching for those sports cars that kept true to the old-school setup of three pedals, a stick, and no help other than that given by your senses. The cars we’re going to discuss here today offer the perfect blend of rawness and electronic advancement from a time when we didn’t hear doomsday preachers announcing the end of the manual transmission.

Last Update October 31, 2023: To keep things fresh on this fantastic list of some of the best sports cars from the 2000s, we have removed one model and added 10 more.

Related: The Best Affordable Sports Cars

20 2004 – 2013 Porsche 911 Carrera

From $26,000

Porsche 911 is an all-time classic in the sports car genre, regardless of the generation. It’s safe to say that, over the years, Porsche engineers have mastered the art of putting the engine in the trunk. For many the 997 generation is the last old-school Porsche 911 (if water-cooled 911s can be considered old-school).

2004-2013 Porsche 911 Carrera Specs

$30,000 to $60,000 can get you a Porsche 997, but you have to limit yourself to the Carrera models as some of the high-performance variants like the GT3, GT2, and Turbo command six-figure price tags. Still, with 325 to 408 horsepower, the Porsche 997 Carrera lineup offers decent enough performance, with 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) happening in as little as 4.2 seconds. The 2008 facelift replaces the five-speed Tiptronic automatic with a seven-speed PDK. Your entry-level price point for a decent example of the 997 generation will set you back at least $26,000. Pristine 997.2 examples can easily go for over $40,000.

19 2004-2011 Mercedes SLK55 AMG

From $16,950

While many would argue that the Porsche Boxster is the best compact sports car, there are worthy alternatives to the mid-engine Porsche. One of them is the R171 Mercedes SLK55 AMG. The German pocket rocket is a very different animal than the mid-engine Porsche. If the Boxster is a scalpel, the SLK55 AMG is a sledgehammer. This psychotic pocket rocket packs a big V-8 in a compact body and sends power exclusively to the rear wheel.

2004-2011 Mercede SLK55 AMG Specs

When you step on the throttle, you better hold on because the twitchy roadster has an extreme appetite for rear tires. On the other hand, powering the SLK55 is the tried-and-tested M113 V-8, a smaller version of which powered the W124 Mercedes 500E – one of Porsche’s more unconventional partnerships. So, small size, big engine, and tire-shredding performance. What’s not to like?

18 2005-2013 Chevrolet C6 Corvette

From $13,950

The C6 Corvette was fairly revolutionary for the nameplate. Chevy released the C6 Corvette in 2005, but development started in 2000. The result was a car that brought many firsts. The most important change that came with the C6 is the fact that it was nearly five inches shorter than the C5 Corvette, yet it rode on a longer wheelbase – something that led to drastically improved handling. This along with the updated suspension also led to a ride quality never before seen in a Corvette.

2005-2013 Chevrolet Corvette C6 Specs

Early C6 Corvettes relied on a 6.0-liter, LS2 V-8 pushing out 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet (542 Nm). The mid-cycle refresh replaced that with a 6.2-liter LS3 that made 430 horsepower and 424 pound-feet (575 Nm), prompting a 4.0-second 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) sprint. You can also choose between soft-top convertible, Targa, and hardtop coupe body styles. Today, decent examples of the C6 Corvette can be had for $27,000.

Related: 10 Best American Sports Cars

17 2001-2004 Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06

From $12,995

The C5 Corvette may not be as refined as its successor, the C6, but the C5 Z06 is every bit the modern, American classic. Even non-Z06 C5 Corvettes featured a revolutionary for the time, hydro-formed, steel chassis, which resulted in five times the structural rigidity of the outgoing C4 Corvette. At 3,119 pounds (1,415 kg), the C5 Z06 is also featherweight, compared to most of its peers. The LS6 V-8 may feature the same displacement as the LS1 V-8, but it packs 60 more horsepower.

2001-2004 Chevrolet Corvette C5 Z06 Specs

At the same time, a Tremec T56 manual, routes power to the rear, allowing for a quarter-mile time of 11.9 seconds at 116 mph (187 km/h). The C5 Corvette, especially when equipped with a manual, is a stout platform, but cheap examples can hide expensive problems. You can find good examples from around $23,500, and they are not going to get any cheaper.

16 2007-2015 Mercedes C63 AMG

From $12,495

When it comes to German performance cars, the Mercedes C63 AMG is one of the most popular models. Thanks to being the brand’s most compact, rear-wheel-drive sedan and featuring a handcrafted, V-8 engine, the C63 AMG is, often, called a German Muscle car. The M156 engine is one of the most iconic, modern-day, Mercedes V-8s. It’s the first V-8 completely developed by AMG and Mercedes’ last naturally-aspirated V-8. The 204-series C63 has future classics written all over it and is available in a sedan (W204), coupe (C204), and wagon (S204).

2007–2015 Mercedes C63 AMG Specs

The M156 is orgasmic and, generally, bulletproof, but only if maintenance is religiously kept up with. Even the base C63 AMG packs 450 horsepower. Beware that the C63 also has an appetite for rear tires, matched only by its thirst for premium fuel. The cheapest C63 AMG we found costs $12,495, but if you’d like to avoid potential headaches, best prepare around double that.

15 2008-2016 Audi S5

From $12,000

The first-generation Audi S5 is a surprisingly underrated proposition. While not as sharp as the BMW M3 or as ludicrous as the C63 AMG from the same era, early S5 models could still get you a naturally aspirated V-8, paired with a six-speed manual, if you go for the coupe. You also get Quattro all-wheel drive as standard and in those days, the S5 was a bit more comfortable than its German competitors BMW and Mercedes. Facelift models forgo the option of a manual transmission and replace the six-speed automatic for a DSG unit.

2008-2011 Audi S5 Specs

The V-8 is also replaced by a supercharged V-6, which also happens to be one of the most underrated European V-6 engines. According to Copilotsearch, models from 2013 to 2015 are best avoided as they either pack less performance or are more problematic. As for the V-8 models are made from 2008 to 2011, and aside from occasional problems with the timing-chain tensioner, they are fairly reliable engines.

Related: Top 10 Best Practical Sports Cars Under $30,000

14 2006-2008 BMW Z4 M E85

From $11,990

The BMW E85 is a direct descendant of the BMW Z3, and like it, it was a parts-bin special. Despite that, it’s a fun alternative to the Mazda MX-5 and thanks to potent inline-six engines, it packs plenty of performance. This is most true for the Z4 M, which shares the E46 M3’s S54 inline-six. If you are willing to settle for the less practical, two-seater layout, the Z4 M provides slightly more performance than its bigger brother. The only transmission option for the Z4 M is a manual.

2006-2008 BMW Z4 M E85 Specs

The Z4 M Coupe is much rarer and has already been appreciated, but the roadster is still within the budget of most car enthusiasts. The S54 is like a Swiss watch and requires meticulous maintenance to work properly, otherwise, things can quickly get expensive. VANOS, water pump, and rod bearings are the main things to look out for as they can be, potentially, detrimental to your M-experience.

13 2004-2009 Honda S2000

From $11,950

The S2000 was Honda’s version of the Mazda MX-5 for those looking for a more visceral driving experience and more performance. The philosophy was the same – a lightweight, compact roadster, and a naturally-aspirated four-banger. Only in this case, the four-banger was an F20C unit that revved to 9,000 RPM. When it came out in 1998, it had the highest specific output of any naturally aspirated inline-four, producing 240 horsepower at 8,300 RPM and 153 pound-feet (208 Nm) at 7,500 RPM.

2004-2009 Honda S2000 Specs

From 2004 to 2009, the AP2 facelift was on offer. It came with less-punishing suspension and a 2.2-liter version of the same engine that made 242 horsepower and 163 pound-feet (221 Nm). The larger, F22 engine was available only for Japan and North America while EU-spec cars continued to be offered with the 9,000-RPM, F20 engine. The 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) took 5.8 seconds. The S2000 is a JDM icon so, if you want a good example, you have to spend at least $24,000.

12 2008-2012 Honda Accord Coupe

From $11,000

When you think of luxury sports coupe, there is a good chance you don’t think Honda Accord. In reality, the Japanese model has had a two-door version since 1994. We are talking about the model based on the eighth-generation Accord, and frankly, if you are looking for Japanese reliability and luxury in a two-door coupe that you plan on using daily, it doesn’t get much better than this. While high-mileage examples are cheaper, low-mileage examples are only about $2,500 more expensive, on average.

2008-2012 Honda Accord Coupe Specs

Both the K24 and J35 engines will last for many miles if you take care of them, but if you want more performance, try to find a V-6 manual. While generally reliable, the Accord can suffer from excessive oil consumption as the miles rack up. This is especially true for the V-6 engine’s cylinder deactivation system, which is known to cause trouble.

Related: 10 Best Japanese Sports Cars Of All Time

11 2009-2020 Nissan 370Z

From $10,990

The Nissan 370Z was produced from 2009 to 2020, which means the price varies quite a lot depending on the model year. Ideally, you want one that’s 2015 or newer as these models are more refined and most of the gremlins have been sorted out. But regardless of the year, the Nissan 370Z is a stout platform that has stood the test of time… and hooning.

2009-2020 Nissan 370Z Specs

The VQ37 engine is a stout platform and all publications have given the 370Z a very high-reliability rating of 4.3/5, but beware of examples that have been modified or have shady history, as those can be potential money pits. Although the Z34 chassis can trace its roots to 2001, the 370Z is a very balanced car, with the right amount of oversteer characteristics. Cheap examples are plentiful, but a good example with relatively low mileage will set you back around $19,500.

10 2000-2006 BMW M3 E46

From $10,950

Arguably the most popular generation of BMW’s M3, the E46 was offered in both coupe and cabriolet form and delivered “Joy Of Driving” by the buckets. By the early 2000s, an inline-six engine had become a staple in M-0cars, certainly in the M3. Moreover, the E46’s high-revving, 3.2-liter, S54 engine is the last naturally-aspirated straight-six put in an M-car. With 338 to 360 horsepower, depending on the market and version, the BMW M3 E46 could rocket to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.0 to 4.7 seconds.

2000-2006 BMW M3 E46 Specs

A six-speed manual was standard, but the range-topping M3 CSL only got the SMG, robotized manual. Luckily, conversions are available. The E46 M3 is available in both coupe and convertible. $13,000 can get you one, but beware of gremlins. A pristine example with history will set you back at least $30,000.

9 2001-2011 Mercedes SL500

From: $9,500

The R230-generation Mercedes SL is the one to introduce the iconic nameplate to modern times. The much sleeker design gave the SL sports car vibes, although its main purpose was still being a capable, long-distance cruiser. In the SL500 form, the M113 V-8 engine was carried over from the old, but desired SL500 R129, albeit modernized. From 2006 onwards, the SL500 receives the newer, M273 V-8, also known to be quite robust, albeit not as much as the M113. The R230 SL500 is also considered one of the last Mercedes models to be properly built to last.

2001-2011 Mercedes SL500 Specs

With that said, there are still a few things to look for. The various roof and trunk seals could let water into the boot, causing havoc with various electrical systems. Pre-2004 models are pre-galvanized so rust can be an issue with those. Aside from that, you can get a modern, German classic with an iconic name that if taken care of, can stand the test of time.

Related: 10 Best V-8 Sports Cars

8 2005-2014 Ford Mustang GT

From $9,000

The fifth generation or S197 of the Ford Mustang came at a time when the class that was defined by the Mustang way back in 1964 was looking like it would bloom again. Ford rode this wave just as the original was turning 40 and unveiled a retro-looking Mustang to replace the divisive SN95. It harkened back to the past without looking dated from birth.

2005-2014 Ford Mustang GT Specs

What we’re recommending, though, is the GT version with its 4.6-liter, SOHC, modular V-8 which, via its five-speed manual transmission, puts 300 horsepower to the ground. The 5.0-liter Coyote V-8 came with the 2010 update, as did the six-speed manual gearbox and a lot more performance. You’re looking at prices in the region of $9,000 for an early GT that has been well-maintained, and up to $24,000 for a pristine late S197 GT model.

7 2005-2012 Porsche 718 Boxster

From $8,995

The 987 Porsche Boxster was launched in the mid-2000s and reaped the rewards of the company-saving original while building on its formula. Following the line of the 997 generation of the 911, the Boxster also lost the “fried egg” headlights that enraged fans of the classic circular design of previous generations. Most of the 986’s kinks have been dealt with in the 987, making for a slightly more trouble-free ownership experience.

2005-2012 Porsche 987 Boxster Specs

The infamous, IMS bearing issue was still present, albeit on a much smaller percentage of vehicles. Even the base, 2.7-liter flat-six puts out a respectable 240 horsepower, but for the best results, you have to avoid the five-speed Tiptronic. The 2009 facelift is the first mid-engine Porsche to benefit from the PDK transmission. A good, base-model Porsche 987 Boxster can be had for $14,000.

6 2004-2006 Pontiac GTO

From $8,995

The last Pontiac GTO was, ultimately, a car that sold in poor numbers and had none of the raw masculinity of the original muscle car. Still, just because it was, a rebadged Holden Monaro from Australia doesn’t mean it lacks proper, Muscle car credentials. The Aussies have their fair share of V-8-powered performance machines and the Monaro/GTO already had a 5.7-liter, LS1 V-8 with 350 horsepower. In 2005, the GTO upgraded to the 6.0-liter, LS2 V-8, featured in early C6 Corvettes.

2004-2006 Pontiac GTO Specs

This meant 405 horsepower and 400 pound-feet (542 Nm), which was enough for a 4.4-second 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) time if equipped with the six-speed manual. The near-C6 Corvette performance was wrapped in a 2+2 coupe package and the best part is you can still get one for $15,000 to $25,000.

Related: 10 Cheap Sports Cars That Are Outrageously Reliable

5 2002-2009 Nissan 350Z

From $6,000

The Nissan 350Z was a bit of a savior for the Nissan brand. When the 350Z launched in 2002, the U.S. market hadn’t seen a Z car in six years. Like its predecessors, the 350Z was a true-to-life sports coupe, and at the time it offered a bigger bang for your buck than cars like the Mazda Miata or Toyota MR2.

2002-2009 Nissan 350Z Specs

The centerpiece of the Nissan 350Z was its 3.5-liter V-6, which developed 287 horsepower and 274 pound-feet (371 Nm). Facelift models got the VQ35HR version of the engine, which revved to 7,500 RPM and produced 313 horsepower. Facelift models are also much more trouble-free, especially about oil consumption. The 350Z was capable of 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.4 seconds on to a top speed of 156 mph (252 km/h). You can find early examples for as low as $9,000 with well-maintained and low-mileage models still selling for around $25,000.

4 2005-2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata NC

From $5,950

Mazda Miata is always the solution for affordable, compact, sports cars. Although there are alternatives in the form of the Toyota 86, any of the four generations of the MX-5 Miata will do the job. The third generation seems to be the black sheep of the family as it is the largest of all Miata generations. With that said, it’s also worth noting that, before the Miata ND facelift, the NC was the most powerful MX-5 you could get.

2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata Specs

In a 2.0-liter guise, the MX-5 packs up to 167 horsepower and 139 pound-feet (188 Nm). The NC could weigh as much as 2,568 pounds (1,165 kg), which was a bit heavy for a Miat, but still light enough to give more powerful sports cars a run for their money. Because it’s the least desired of all MX-5 generations, a decent NC Miata can be had for $9,000.

3 2009-2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe

From $5,895

The first, proper sports car from South Korea once bore the Genesis name (now Hyundai’s luxury brand), which is also dirt-cheap, but there are a few things you have to be aware of. First off, build quality, especially on early models meant for the North American market, isn’t the best, and most plastics will remind you of their existence through various squeaks and rattles. The engines are, generally, reliable, as long as they are properly maintained. Both, the 2.0 turbo-four and 3.8-liter V-6 are very particular about engine oil so, make sure you are using the correct specification to avoid catastrophic failure.

2010-2016 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Specs

If all is right, these engines can last a long time without serious issues. The Genesis Coupe is, often, compared with the Nissan 370Z, but Infiniti’s G37/Q60 is a more appropriate comparison since both cars are meant to be a balance between a long-distance cruiser and a sports coupe. Depending on the engine and model year, good examples with low mileage can be had from around $9,500. Early Hyundai Genesis Coupes, equipped with the 2.0-liter turbo-four and a five-speed automatic, offer the least performance.

Related: The Best Affordable Sports Cars On The Market Today

2 Toyota Celica GT-S

From $4,490

Toyota’s answer to the Acura Integra Type-R in the 1990s was the Celica GT-S. Like the Acura, Toyota’s compact sports car features economy-car underpinnings, albeit modified to fit the car’s sporty aspirations. In GT-S guise, the Celica trades its 1ZZ inline-four for a 2ZZ unit with the same displacement. The key difference is the Yamaha head, which allows the engine to rev to 8,500 RPM, before fuel cut-off. Euro-spec models, dubbed Celica TS, feature Lotus software, adding 10 more horsepower.

1999–2005 Toyota Celica GT-S Specs

These little Toyotas are still relatively underrated, which is why they are nowhere near the price of an Integra Type-R/ Type-S from the same period. The Celica GT-S is cheap to run, although pre-facelift models can suffer from oil starvation due to the lack of a baffled oil pan and the stock oil pump not being sufficient.

1 1999-2007 Toyota MR2 Spyder

From $3,990

The final generation of the Toyota MR2 had the unenviable task of picking up the torch from its SW20 predecessor. Gone were the turbocharged, 3S-GTE engines, and instead a 1.8-liter 1ZZ-FED was tasked with propulsion. With just 138 horsepower and 127 pound-feet (170 Nm), performance aspirations were not high, but the W30 MR2 weighed just 2,195 pounds (996 kg).

1999–2007 Toyota MR2 Spyder Specs

With a close-ratio, five-speed manual, the compact Toyota sports car could reach 60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.5 seconds. There was a six-speed sequential transmission, which took 1.2 seconds longer to 60 mph. The W30 Toyota MR2 can best be described as a cut-price Lotus Elise. Depeding on condition and mileage, you can pick one up for $4,000 to $11,000.

Sources: Cargurus.com,Cars.com, and CarEdge.com