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5 Sporting European Cars Under $30,000
If you’ve been forced to give up those four-egg omelets at Sunday brunch because they now cost $36, rest assured that some weekend pleasures are still well within reach. Like sporting European coupes and convertibles, for instance. There are thousands of models out there just begging to be driven, from slow cheap ones like the Triumph Mayflower and Renault Fuego to fast expensive ones like, well, I mean, Ferrari 250 GTOs are 12-egg omelets these days. They also fall slightly beyond the scope of this exercise, for which we’ve set a cap of $30,000, which seems a reasonable sum for an interesting, exciting car in #3 (good) driver-quality shape. The kind of car you wouldn’t be afraid to put some fun miles on, in other words. Here are five we took note of, which span not just the continent, but the decades, too.
1956–58 Austin-Healey 100-6 BN4
If you’ve got $30K budgeted for a small British sports car, the world is your oyster, because so many of them fall within this realm. Heck, the nicest square-body Sprite in the world won’t even set you back that much. But for $29,800 according to Hagerty Price Guide values, you can also get into a pretty nice 100-6, which still looks stupendous 70 years on and, as the name suggests, offers true 100-mph performance. Beyond the fact that the 100-6 is powered by a 2639-cc inline-six rather than the 2660-cc four found in the earlier 100-4 (which offered no real-world difference in performance), the later cars differ only slightly, with oval rather than trapezoidal grilles and a longer body to accommodate the six-cylinder engine. Parts availability and club support are top-notch, and few things put a bigger smile on your face than open-air motoring down twisty backroads on a lovely day.
1965–73 Lancia Fulvia 1.2 / 1.3 Coupe
The angular, upright 1963 Fulvia Berlina sedan succeeded the ponton-styled Appia in Lancia’s lineup and brought the Italian marque fully into the 1960s. It also gave Lancia something to compete with against the likes of the Fiat 1300 and Alfa Romeo Giulia. For 1965, an attractive three-box two-door coupe joined the line-up. Powered by a longitudinally mounted 45-degree DOHC V-4, the 1.2- and later 1.3-liter engine made between 80 and 87 horsepower and drove the front wheels, which translated to a spry, athletic ride. The high-performance “HF” model soon followed, and the radical Fulvia became a force to be reckoned with in rallying. Lancia always and an exceptional reputation for engineering, and the build quality of Fulvias is no exception. A good driver should provide reliable thrills for a long time, and comes in between $26K-$29K.
1981–87 Alfa Romeo GTV-6
Alfa Romeo had a hit on its hands when it debuted the Alfetta sedan in 1972. The two-door fastback Alfetta GT drawn up by Giogietto Giugiaro’s Italdesign followed for 1974, powered by twin-cam four-cylinder engines ranging from 1.6 to 2.0 liters. By 1980, the facelifted coupe was known simply as the GTV, and a year later, Alfa dropped a fuel-injected, all-aluminum, 154-hp 2.5-liter V-6 under the hood (with a big ol’ bulge to accommodate it) and renamed it the GTV-6. With front double wishbone suspension, a five-speed rear transaxle and inboard rear disc brakes, and a DeDion rear suspension, the car was incredibly balanced. Alfa produced some special editions for the U.S. market, and there was even a Callaway-modified twin-turbocharged GTV-6. But for the purposes of this endeavor, any standard GTV-6 in good shape should come in right around $25K and be a great driving machine that still looks like nothing else on the road.
1995–99 BMW M3 E36
Several fun BMWs fall below our $30K threshold at the moment, including the 8 Series (both V-8 and V-12), various 6 Series of the 1970s and ’80s, the endearing M Roadster, the Isetta, and a few different generations of M3. But it’s the E36 M3 we’re highlighting here. The follow-up to the groundbreaking E30 M3 was a far more useable road car, and its 240-horsepower straight-six will launch the handsome coupe (or convertible, or sedan) to 60 mph in under six seconds. These cars have fallen off the mainstream radar somewhat as successive and more powerful M3 generations have appeared, but they are still relatively simple cars that were built in large numbers, which means good ones are out there waiting to be found and enjoyed for smart money.
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1994–2004 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage Coupe or Convertible
There’s a lot to like about the DB7, from its Ian Callum styling to its luxury cockpit to its 007 sophistication. Then there’s that 420-hp 6.0-liter V-12, which in 1999 replaced the inline-six that had powered the car since its 1994 launch and gave it the Vantage moniker so synonymous with fast Astons of yore. This is a world-class GT capable of gobbling up the miles at high speeds and in great comfort, and the fact that the market makes no real distinction between closed and open versions is a win for everyone. These were handmade $150,000 cars when new, so the bang-for-buck factor here is high.
A DB7 for $30K? I immediately went to that haven of used cars, AutoTrader, and couldn’t find a thing. So I took the leap and cruised over to Hemmings where I found a few DB7s ranging from $35K to $290K(!). Granted, the $290K was for a Zagato, but prices were generally between $45-80K, except those with the price listed as “Inquire”. For me, “Inquire” means if you have to ask the price you can’t afford it.
So, barring any offerings from the always reliable BHCC, where can I buy a DB7 for under $30K?
Ebay has 3 of them right now.
I stand corrected, but why are these beauties so cheap? I love Corvettes, but an affordable Aston is almost too good to be true.
Decent repair shops are scarce and likely to be some distance away from you. Parts and labor are high.
That’s the problem with almost all European classics. Unless they’re into them, very few repair shops want anything to do with European cars. I suppose it’s like many mechanics who work on gas engines don’t want anything to do with diesels and vice versa. I don’t like working on European cars because to me most seem to be irrationally over engineered. I remember a customer wanted me to replace the rusted brake lines on his 67 RR. “Whoa!” I said, this is way above my pay grade. If you don’t know what I mean look into RR’s systems.
“Irrationally over engineered” is a great statement. The hallmarks of good engineering are functionality, simplicity and reliability. Many carmakers never got the memo, especially BMW and Porsche.
I would slightly disagree, while I would say that the main Japanese producers have mastered the principals “functionality, simplicity and reliability”, well bought and maintained European cars can be very reliable. We have two BMW’s as DDs and four Porsches in the fun fleet, and they have been very reliable. To single Porsche out, they use very high quality components and while subject to normal repair and maintenance needs, when things are fixed, they tend to stay fixed.
My exact sentiment. Beautiful cars as are Jaguars.
I test drove one and was very interested but they are ridiculously expensive to fix. There is a computer that is sometimes necessary to replace that costs about $10k. I was scared off by the maintenance costs.
No Ashton is “cheap.” Purchase price may be “low” but maintenance will bring you to tears. Buy a 996 generation 911.
They used to have a saying here in UK if you were thinking of buying an Aston Martin, “You had better have deep pockets full of cash AFTER having bought the car as you are going to need every penny”!
for a poorly assembled car that leaks from the windshield I will not give a copec
Look at BaT. They are in relative abundance.
And on my short list!
Anything on BaT is ridiculously overpriced. There are no good deals on that site…
Rubbish !!
20k-Mile 2002 Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage Volante, SOLD $23,500
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/2002-aston-martin-db7-v12-vantage-volante-8/
39K-2000 Aston Martin DB7 V12 Vantage Volante 6-Speed, SOLD $22,222
https://bringatrailer.com/listing/2000-aston-martin-db7-v12-vantage-volante-2-2/
Also, I suspect that if you bought DB7 for $30K, you could easily blaze through another $100K in the first year of ownership.
I bought one at Barrett Jackson about 10 years ago for about $45K. In the brief time I owned it I spent another $10K on windows, brakes and lots of small stuff but it was a classy car to drive. Sold it for $40K and the new owner is still happy with it..
Absolutely correct. I’ve always wanted one but every time I researched them I can across the reality that maintenance will kill you. I have an 06 911 and while they’re well engineered and break down far less frequently, Porsche repair work will obliterate your checking account.
Not to mention that the Jaguar XK of 1997 to 2006 is a better car for only a fraction of the price. Reliability will also be much better IF the notorious plastic-tensioners have been replaced (as most were).
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In 1958 my father was in the Army, stationed in Germany. When my mother, sister and I returned stateside before her did, he took the opportunity to dump the family Nash Rambler for an AH 100-6. When he returned to the states a few months later, her shipped the car back and he, my grandfather, and the dog drove it from NY to LA. He had great stories about that drive. He sold the car in LA for more than twice what he paid for it despite my imploring that I would be able to drive it in just 5 years. I’ve always had a sweet spot for that car.
In the UK you can buy a DB7 starting from $20,000.
The Jaguar XK8/XKR should be on the list.
I agree. I wonder if an F-type has dropped that low in price. Probably not for a decent one. I am a hard pass on the BMW and the Lancia. If I were going to buy an Alfa, I would go for the classic convertible.
So should be the Mercedes SLK 350 which will outperform some of these dogs at a cost of $15000 for a good one.
and another 5-10K will get you a nice SLK55
SLK32 AMG
The Jaguar XK and even XJ series are a good substitute for Aston at less $. Might be a bit easier to find an Indy shop.
I own a ’86 GTV6 and I enjoy its sublime performance and the “nice noises” it makes.
Truly an analogue GT.
Great selection and I have owned a few. It would be a bit of a challenge to find a good, lower mileage e36 M3 for ~$30K but what great cars. I am sure folks here are aware, but while the cost of entry for many of these is reasonable, the costs and logistics of ownership may not be. Aftermarket parts support and brand forums, clubs, etc. all help but where is you local AM or Alfa indy? You could go to the Dealer, maybe. That said, these are all great choices, and the Alfa is my current pick!
All great cars, but keep in mind that they are all old now and will definitely give you trouble. Parts and service are expensive and often hard to find for cars like this, so keep in mind that the purchase price is just a “down payment” towards what you’ll be spending over time. Ask me how I know.
Great reply…. As you stated, the initial cost maybe affordable, but maintenance & parts may soon negate the purchase price.
I have two delightful under 30K European sports cars. A 1963 TR3 B , end of the line for early TRs and it comes with an all synchro gearbox and a TR4 engine. Also what I consider a great bargain, a 2001 BMW Z3 . it comes with a 3.0 liter engine. Power top, ac and heated seats. Sure it was built in NC, but you can’t hold that against it. Great back roads fun and can be driven without terror on the Interstates, unless you live in Massachusetts, where even driving a Mack truck on an Interstate is an exercise in terror.
My father owned a Z3 which he sold to my sister when she was deployed to Germany. He figured it would be a good car for her to own in Germany. LOL. I would like the M series of that car.
In ’96 my wife and I bought the first Z3 that arrived at the dealership, with the torquey 4-cylinder and a very sweet gearbox. As a long time sports car owner, it reminded me of what “sports car” used to mean, and the retro styling added to that. You had to be involved in driving, minding instruments, matching clutch work to speed and situation, like the MGs and Triumphs I’d owned. Later,when they went to a six-cylinder engine, that character changed. By the time Chris Bangle got his hands on the styling, all was lost…the Zs looked like cartoons.
I have a 1997 Z3 2.8 and love it. They’re dirt cheap, a good one for under 12000. The other real bargain is the 71 to 73 Alfa Spider with the small bumpers. They’re about 22 to 25000 for a very good strong 3.
My brother and I toured Bavaria in 1990. Our guide claimed that BMW stood for Bayerishe Mist Werke (Bavarian Manure Factory). At the time, Opel was the most respected car in Germany.
The E36 gen BMW’s would be my pick from the list.
I have owned a 1998 M3 sedan, 5 speed for some time. If you can work on it yourself, not too bad finding parts and doing repairs. If you have to rely on a BMW dealer I feel for you. Fun car to drive and would not think of selling.
I own a 98′ M3 that was my parents who have passed. Great car and only has 60k original miles and my family is only owner. Love the car and it doesnt have a scratch on it. Plan on sending some pics and my story into the Hagerty magazine. We shall see if they accept and publish. 🙂 This one is a bit rare. 4 door automatic which are hard to find as well. I live in DFW and have some great places around me that work on them for very reasonable cost. One is Texas Trackworks. Some good sites to buy from are turnermotorsports.com and bimmerworld.com for anybody reading this that needs some extra places to buy parts.
Scoop up the first three and also the BMW for your daily driver and that would be a terrific classic sports car collection right there. These are great picks.
The price can go much lower with some compromises. I have an E36 318i cabrio which I bought for $5000 (CDN!) with 109,000 km. Yes it’s a lot slower than an M3, but it has a manual transmission and makes a great summer cruiser. And the collector insurance and plates cost $156/year. I would gladly drive it anywhere. There is hope for the average person with limited funds to have some fun in this hobby!
Missing all the glorious Mercs? Plenty of awesome & enjoyable 90’s choices for under 30K! Let’s start with AMGs — C36, C43, CLK55s, E55, etc. And how about SL500’s? Sporty SLKs too. I guess it’s just our little secret.
Beware of the SL500. I was about to buy one, but it broke while stored in the garage, when the battery went dead. The top mechanism stopped working. The rough part of this was that Mercedes dealerships no longer have the means to diagnose this. Imagine being somewhere with the top down and unfixable. And it gets cold. And it rains. Another owner I met had the A/C stop working. The repair cost made him keel over. Years ago I had an SL350. Way better behaved and the top mechanism is different. [Both instances 1997 model year, one of the best for lack of repair expenses. More: Earlier SL350’s and possibly the other models in that group are prone to wiring harness failures. That fix makes the above-mentioned A/C looks like peanuts.
Add the original SLK230 Kompressor to the list of rides worth considering. Bought a 3 year old 1998 model off-lease with 30k in the year 2000. It reliably served as my wife’s daily driver and our summer weekend ice cream car for 17 years until it was totalled in a MASSIVE hail storm (one of the risks we run with three nice cars and a two car garage – a harsh lesson learned there).
B
It is to ponder though how much time and/or $$$ one will spend in upkeep…part of the “value” equation that one has to consider…
Porsche Boxster should be at the top of the list. 968 is also a great car but a bit more rare. Boxster’s are plentiful and IMHO the absolute best bang for the buck in any sportscar. Our 2001 Boxster S has 206k miles and is still running strong and pasting smiles on the driver’s face.
928 would be a great choice as well. And many can be had for $20,000 or less. Some less than $10,000 but you’d be back at $20,000 in a hurry sorting one out.
I’d love to have one.
5-speeds seem to go for more, I have been keeping my eye out too. I’ve seen a few really nice, well sorted automatics for 20K-ish or less.