The legendary Ford Mustang is a car that needs no introduction. A firm favorite among gearheads for generations, the iconic pony car is now in its seventh generation and is the most well-rounded package it has ever been. In recent years, Ford has invested heavily in the Mustang and interior improvements along with other refinements have helped it compete with its European competitors. Today, the model enjoys global appeal and has even been produced in right-hand drive for markets such as the United Kingdom.
The 2023 Ford Mustang is fairly rapid even in its base model configuration. With a 310-hp 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine under the hood, even the base Mustang can sprint from 0-60 mph in under 5.1 seconds. The model attracts a $27,770 starting price, and while this is a pretty good bang for the buck, several cheap cars can rival its performance for a fraction of the cost.
10 2015 Volkswagen Golf R - $19,689 - 4.9 Seconds 0-60 MPH
The performance powerhouse Volkswagen Golf R sits proudly at the top of this popular hatchback line-up. The model was all-new for the 2015 model year and was 0.5 inches wider and 2.5 inches longer than its predecessor.
Under the hood, Volkswagen had kitted out the Golf R with a turbocharged 292-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder. Combined with a rapid shifting "DSG" automated dual-clutch gearbox, 0-60 mph took just 4.9 seconds. 2015 examples are currently worth just under $20,000 according to Kelley Blue Book (KBB).
9 2013 Audi RS5 - $24,681 - 4.3 Seconds 0-60 MPH
The sleek and powerful Audi RS5 made its North American debut for the 2013 model year. Under its hood, Audi had supplied a beastly 4.2-liter V8. Generating an enviable 450 hp, the RS5 could comfortably blast from 0-60 mph in just 4.3 seconds.
The model is far from a one-trick pony, combining all that power with a seriously well-appointed interior and making for a comfortable cruiser. Just like other "RS" Audis, the car is furnished generously with standard fitment items. According to KBB, you can now pick up this brute for just under $25,000.
8 2008 BMW M3 - $17,217- 4.3 Seconds 0-60 MPH
The BMW M3 is one of the most celebrated performance sedans in the automotive world. For those looking for something a bit sleeker, a coupe and a convertible version are also available. Once firmly out of reach for many gearheads, but incredibly you can now pick up a 2008 example for just $17,000.
Providing the power is a peachy 414-hp 4.0-liter V8. The unit is considerably more aggressive than its inline-six predecessor, putting out 24% more power and reaching 60 mph almost a full second faster than the Mustang.
7 2014 Jaguar F-Type - $30,614 - 5.1 Seconds 0-60 MPH
The achingly beautiful Jaguar F-Type was released back in 2014. In many ways, the F-Type can be considered a spiritual successor of the legendary E-Type. The car has aged like a fine wine, and early examples can now become yours for just $30,000.The base engine option is a glorious 340-hp 3.0-liter supercharged V6. With all that power, the 0-60 mph sprint takes just 5.1 seconds.
The car benefits from an aluminum-alloy chassis which is not only lightweight but helps significantly improve the F-Type's handling and performance credentials. For those desiring even more performance, a beastly 5.0-liter V8 version was also available. The larger displacement unit generated enough thrust to propel the car to 60 mph in an even faster 4.2 seconds, before topping out at a mighty 186 mph.
6 2015 Audi S3- $20,569 - 4.7 Seconds 0-60 MPH
The regular Audi A3 is a great all-rounder, combining a lot of the luxury and refinement found in Audi's larger models. For the 2015 model year, Audi launched an all-new sedan variant. The cabin is exceptionally well appointed, with a comprehensive list of standard fitment items. From leather-covered seats to bi-xenon headlights and even a panoramic sunroof, you get plenty of cool features without ticking a single option box.
The infotainment system is slick and simple to use, adding to the overall sense of satisfaction the S3 provides. Those who love their audio will be more than happy, a sublime 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen putting out a mighty 705 watts is available as an option. For those buyers looking for a sleeper, the powerhouse S3 has to be worthy of shortlisting. The model boasts an impressive 292 hp, enabling it to blast from 0-60 mph in only 4.7 seconds. 2015 examples are currently worth around $20,000 according to KBB.
5 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI S - $30,530 - 5.1 Seconds 0-60 MPH
If you don't fancy taking the risk on something used, the 2023 Volkswagen Golf GTI S could be right up your street. With a list price of $30,530, buyers are getting serious bang for their buck. The model features the latest Volkswagen styling, a fully connected infotainment system, and plenty of power. In the engine bay, a turbocharged 241-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder provides enough grunt to propel the GTI S from 0-60 mph in a Mustang-equaling 5.1 seconds.
Fans of the third pedal will be pleased to hear the GTI S comes with a manual gearbox as. the standard fitment option. However, for just under $1000 Volkswagen's slick "DSG" dual-clutch automatic can also be selected. The car retains the iconic heritage-inspired "Clark Plaid" seat cloth the GTI has sported for generations. This link back to the past makes the GTI feel extra special, helping differentiate it from other Golf trim levels. Compared to the previous version, the 2023 GTI S produces an additional 13 hp, a fairly impressive feat given its 2.0-liter four-cylinder was already generating serious power.
4 2019 Jaguar I-Pace $31,720 - 4.5 Seconds 0-60 MPH
While it might not spring to mind when thinking of Mustang rivaling cars, the Jaguar I-Pace is surprisingly rapid. Powered by a fully electric powertrain, the I-Pace generates an impressive 394 hp, enabling it to rocket from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.
The I-Pace was a new entrant into Jaguar's line-up for the 2019 model year, notably being the first EV produced by the brand. If you value practicality and performance, you will be pleased to learn an early example is now available for around $31,000. The cabin provides good levels of space for its occupants, and the rear trunk provides a solid 51.0 cubic feet of cargo space. The I-Pace is available with several features that help to make it feel sufficiently luxurious. From acoustic laminated glass to a heated soft grain leather steering wheel, and a vast fixed panoramic sunroof.
3 2023 Chevrolet Camaro LT1- $37,795 - 4.0 Seconds 0-60 MPH
Visually, the Chevrolet Camaro looks the most like the Ford Mustang out of all the cars on this list, sporting an identifiable muscle car silhouette. In LT1 specification, making the Camaro a seriously quick proposition. The variant features new 20-inch alloy wheels, helping to provide an imposing look.
Compared to the previous generation model, the cabin has been improved significantly. The overall design not only looks more modern but feels better put together. Under the hood, lies a thumping 455-hp small-block V8 providing enough grunt to shift the LT1 from 0-60 mph in just 4.0 seconds. The model can be yours for $37,795, making it a very tempting proposition indeed.
2 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8- $13,707- 4.8 Seconds 0-60 MPH
The borderline insane Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 was designed by the Chrysler's "Street and Racing Technology" division as its name indicates. The model sports a raft of exterior modifications, including imposing 20-inch alloy wheels, vast twin exhausts, and an oversized body kit.
However, the real changes lie under the hood. The SRT8 is supplied with a monstrous 420-hp 6.1-liter Hemi V8, enabling this hefty lump to blast to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. With a KBB fair purchase price valuation of just $13,707, the model now offers serious bang for the buck.
1 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class - $27,701 - 4.9 Seconds 0-60 MPH
Few sedans are as highly regarded as the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Arguably the king of the luxobarge market, the model is celebrated for both its luxury and its technological innovation. 2014 saw the launch of an all-new version, which raised the bar even higher.
The model is seriously well-equipped as standard, including an array of safety sensors and even a top-notch 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Incredibly, you can now pick up a 2014 example for just under $28,000, and it's pretty rapid too. 0-60 mph takes just 4.9 seconds with the "entry-level" S550 powered by a 455-hp 4.6-liter V8.