9 of the Coolest Cars You Can Buy Used for Under $20,000

Being on a budget doesn't mean you can't drive a really cool car. There are plenty of used models that sell for under $20,000.

What counts as cool? There are loads of opinions, so we'll focus on exterior aesthetics and impressive performance. If you buy one of the models listed below, you'll get a great ride without going over budget — definitely one of the smarter car owner moves you can make.

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Price range: $14,599-$18,998

The 2014 Mazda MX-5 Miata has an exterior that makes it look like it came from a boutique designer in Italy rather than a large Japanese manufacturer. But Mazda knew exactly what it was doing when it gave this small roadster subtle curves and a convertible roof.

It isn't all looks with the MX-5 Miata, though. The precise steering and a 2.0-liter, inline four-cylinder engine will give you plenty of confidence and thrills on the road.

Price range: $11,500 - $33,998

If a luxury look is more your speed, you'll love the high-end appeal of the Chrysler 300. Its wide stance, sharp lines, and signature grille give it an unmistakable road presence. Chrysler designed it to blend classic American style with modern sophistication, and it shows.

But the 300 isn't just about looks. With available V6 or HEMI V8 power, a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, and an interior focused on comfort and technology, it delivers both strength and refinement.

Price range: $15,998-$46,590

Has the Mustang ever been anything less than cool? Ford gives every generation a new style, yet manages to set new standards for what muscle cars should look like. For 2019, the Mustang offers a body-heavy appearance with a big hood and minimized grille. And exposed tires have rarely looked so attractive.

To stay under $20,000, you should focus on coupe and convertible versions. The Bullitt trim level is tempting, but it will put you well above that price point. But no worries, the entry-level trims have plenty to offer.

The Mustang EcoBoost Coupe 2D is one of your most affordable options. Its 2.3-liter, four-cylinder engine churns out 310 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. That's a ton of power for such an affordable car.

Price range: $8,495-$52,990

The 2015 Dodge Challenger puts a modern twist on the '70s muscle car sports aesthetic that first made the Challenger popular. The designers did a fabulous job joining modern expectations with a retro style. If you're skeptical, just check out the Challenger's classic lines, grille, and headlights.

To keep the price low, look for the base SXT model that comes with a 3.6-liter, V6 engine. Sure, you could pay more for a bigger, badder engine, but this V6 gives you an impressive 305 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. That's plenty of power for the average driver.

Price range: $17,590 - $24,998

It's hard to deny that the Mercedes-Benz logo is a cultural icon that looks cool no matter the model. The 2014 E-Class features a minimized grille that really lets the logo shine, along with sculpted lines that convey speed and class. It's the kind of sedan that turns heads without ever trying too hard.

Of course, Mercedes engineered it for more than curb appeal. With a range of engines from an efficient four-cylinder to a powerful V8, plus a cabin lined with high-quality materials and advanced safety technology, the E-Class blends performance, comfort, and innovation.

Price range: $12,999-$25,990

Hyundai excels at producing great cars at affordable prices. If you're familiar with the brand, you won't be surprised to see the Veloster on this list. It has a unique, functional three-door body style that gives it a slick look. Plus, the big, decorative grille makes it stand out when viewed from the front. Other drivers will love the way you look from all angles as you zoom by them.

The 2020 Veloster comes standard with a 2-liter, four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower. That doesn't sound like much, but it's plenty for a lightweight couple. If you want more power, look for one with a 2-liter, four-cylinder turbo engine that creates 250 horsepower.

Price range: $16,9977-$39,990

With its attention-grabbing grille and refined curves, the 2017 Chevrolet Camaro 1LT has enough attitude to stand up to practically any other car on the road. Opt for a convertible or coupe, depending on which you think is cooler. After all, it's your car.

This Camaro gets top ratings for its driving performance. If you want to stay under $20,000, you'll likely need to opt for the V6 model, which produces 335 horsepower. If you happen to get a great deal on a V8 version, you'll get a whopping 455 horsepower.

Price range: $18,998 - $22,401

The 2018 Subaru BRZ is one of those cars that just begs to be driven. It's low, sleek, and sporty without being over the top, and you can tell at a glance that it was built with fun in mind.

With sports-car handling, the BRZ is built for winding roads thanks to its classic rear-wheel-drive balance. Powered by a 2-liter flat-4 engine, you might not have enough horsepower to speed around the track, but you'll certainly have fun taking it on a weekend spin.

Price range: $19,590-$26,990

A Corolla is one of the coolest cars? OK, hear us out. The 2021 Toyota Corolla has exceptional style…when you choose the hatchback version. It's aerodynamic and has an attention-grabbing grille. It's cool, it just isn't too flashy.

The Special Edition trim level gives you a sportier aesthetic, but it will also cost you more money.

Another bonus: the Corolla hatchback is fun to drive. In a world where automatic transmissions have become standard, the 2021 Corolla still has a manual option. That's a big deal for anyone who loves feeling connected to their car and the road.

Buying a used car gives you more options to look cool without spending more money than you can afford. Luckily, saving money doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the cool factor that makes owning a car fun.

That's a big deal in today's market, where the average new car sells for nearly $49,000. As prices keep going up, buying used is often the smart choice — and it can also help you save on car insurance, adding even more value to your purchase.