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15 Affordable ‘Midlife Crisis’ Cars

Check out some fun vehicles that will make you feel young again without busting your wallet.

By Jenny Cohen

Edited by Chris Kissell

Updated May 15, 2025

Many people scoff at those who buy a "midlife crisis" car. After all, why blow money on a car simply because you are worried about getting old?

But buying a car at midlife can also be great fun. Now that you have advanced in your career or have more time to enjoy life, why not treat yourself?

Make some smart car owner moves by getting that cool car you have always wanted. Here are some affordable "midlife crisis" cars.

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Jaguar XF

The Jaguar XF gives you British luxury for under $50,000 — a new model comes with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $49,800.

The vehicle features a sleek exterior that will make you stand out without breaking the bank.

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Chevrolet Corvette

If you are looking for an American sports car, the Chevrolet Corvette should be near the top of your list.

Production on Chevy's first mid-engine Corvette, the Corvette C8, began in 2020. It currently has an MSRP of $68,300.

Older, used models still give you that Corvette cache without having to spend as much cash. For example, a 2010 model might run you around $30,000.

Ford Mustang

The Ford Mustang is another iconic American sports car with its legendary prancing horse on the grill.

The current-model Mustang starts at $31,920, but you can bump that cost higher depending on whether you want a special edition or extra add-ons.

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Jeep Wrangler

Pick up a Jeep Wrangler that you can use for off-roading if you love driving on dirt and getting out in nature.

The classic off-roading Wrangler starts at $31,995. You might want to set some extra cash aside for add-ons such as a winch to get out of tough spots, or spare tire covers to show off your Jeep's personality.

BMW 230i

One of the great things about getting a midlife crisis car is that you don't have to worry about packing a family into it.

That's why you might want to consider the two-door BMW 230i. It has a sleek design and an MSRP of around $40,000, depending on the model you choose.

Mercedes-Benz C 300

Mercedes-Benz is another luxury brand that offers a sedan that will make you feel classy.

You can own a Mercedes-Benz for under $50,000, with the C 300 coming in at an MSRP of $46,950. The sedan features driver assist as well as a huge touch-screen to help you navigate.

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Porsche Boxster

It's going to be practically impossible to find a new Porsche with an MSRP under $50,000, but there are still ways to get one of these cars in your driveway for under that price.

Take the Porsche Boxster, for example. You may have to do some searching, but you should be able to find older models at an affordable price. For example, you might find a 2015 Boxster for around $50,000.

Ford F-150

Your midlife crisis car might look more like a truck, complete with towing capacity for a boat or camper. Check out a pickup truck like the Ford F-150, with a starting MSRP of $36,965.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

Add some zip to your life with a new Mazda Miata in your driveway. The sporty two-door coupe has a starting MSRP of $37,010.

It includes safety features such as adaptive lighting and cruise control to protect you.

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Mini Countryman

A Mini may be a little car, but that also makes it a fun car. This can be the perfect vehicle if you are thinking about a midlife crisis splurge.

The Countryman is a four-door sedan, so you have some extra space. It has an MSRP of $38,900.

Chevrolet Camaro

If a Corvette is out of your price range, General Motors may still have an option for you with the Chevrolet Camaro.

The Camaro is more affordable, with a starting MSRP of $30,900.

Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 is another small car that offers a big amount of fun and lets you fulfill dreams of a European driving experience while staying stateside.

The Fiat 500 has a starting MSRP of $30,245 and offers plenty of great features, like a well-appointed interior.

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Audi A3

Engineering matches styling in the Audi A3, a four-door option that is a combination of sporty and luxury.

The A3 starts at an MSRP of $35,800 and includes features such as Audi's quattro all-wheel drive and adaptive cruise assist.

Volkswagen Golf GTI

The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a fun hatchback option if you don't want the typical sedan.

The hatchback can give you more storage space in the back and offers a sporty profile. It has an MSRP starting at $31,965.

Tesla Model Y

Maybe it's time to go electric with an all-electric Tesla Model Y.

The Model Y is a great crossover SUV option that is still affordable enough for you to feel comfortable when you buy it. It has an MSRP of $31,490.

Bottom line

A midlife crisis car lets you try something different and have some fun behind the wheel.

It's also important to shop around and compare quotes to save on car insurance. Getting a good deal on insurance will leave you with more gas money so you can take your fun new ride out on the open road.

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Author Details

Jenny Cohen

Jenny Cohen is a freelance writer who has covered a bit of everything, from finance to sports to her favorite TV shows. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and FoxSports.com.