V8 Power Without the Premium Price Tag
Buying a new car in today’s market often means sacrificing engine size and premium features. With a budget of around $24,250, the starting price of a new Honda Civic, drivers often find themselves settling. But what if you could have more power, more prestige, and more excitement?
The used car market offers a compelling alternative. For the same price as a brand-new compact car, you can own a full-size luxury or high-performance sedan boasting a powerful V8 engine. These vehicles, once flagships priced well over $70,000, have become surprisingly affordable due to depreciation.
Whether you dream of the refined elegance of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, the raw performance of a BMW M5, or the bold presence of a Chrysler 300 S, these cars deliver a premium experience without a premium price tag. Below are ten used V8 sedans you can buy today for the price of a new Honda Civic:
1. 2019 Genesis G90 5.0 Ultimate
The Genesis G90, Hyundai’s luxury flagship, comes with a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 420 horsepower. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, it offers a smooth, commanding driving experience. Unlike some older luxury sedans, the G90 features modern driver assistance systems, a high-quality infotainment system, and premium materials that rival its German competitors.
What sets the Genesis G90 apart is its focus on rear-seat comfort, making it a budget-friendly alternative to a brand-new Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Reliability is another strong suit, with lower-than-average repair bills, making it one of the best high-end V8 sedans for under $24,250.
- Engine: 5.0-liter V8
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Horsepower: 420 hp
- Torque: 383 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 155 mph
2. 2014 Audi S6 4.0T Prestige
The 2014 Audi S6 combines German engineering with exhilarating performance, sporting a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that delivers 420 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. This setup enables a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 4.5 seconds, making it one of the quickest sedans on this list. The S6 also features Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent grip and stability in all weather conditions.
Inside, the S6 Prestige trim has premium leather upholstery, carbon fiber accents, and Audi’s MMI infotainment system. The optional Bang & Olufsen sound system delivers an immersive audio experience. Adaptive air suspension ensures a comfortable ride while allowing drivers to stiffen the setup for sportier handling. Despite its impressive performance, the S6 is an underrated option in the used market.
- Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8
- Drivetrain: AWD
- Horsepower: 420 hp
- Torque: 406 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 4.1 seconds
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
- Top Speed: 155 mph
3. 2014 Mercedes-Benz S550
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has long been the gold standard for luxury sedans, and the 2014 S550 continues that tradition. Under the hood, a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 generates 449 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, propelling this full-size sedan to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds. It delivers effortless acceleration and one of the smoothest rides in its segment.
The S550 boasts a tech-laden cabin with a dual-screen setup for infotainment and instrumentation. High-quality leather, wood, and aluminum adorn the interior, enhancing the luxury experience. Mercedes’ AIRMATIC adaptive suspension guarantees a cloud-like ride. While maintenance costs can be high, the S-Class remains one of the most comfortable and prestigious V8 sedans available for under $24,250.
- Engine: 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Horsepower: 449 hp
- Torque: 516 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 155 mph
4. 2015 Jaguar XJ
The 2015 Jaguar XJ offers British luxury with a performance twist, due to its 5.0-liter V8 producing 470 horsepower. This lightweight aluminum-bodied sedan is more agile than its size suggests, providing sharp handling that rivals smaller sports sedans. It also boasts a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds, making it one of the quicker luxury sedans in its class.
Inside, the XJ exudes old-school charm with quilted leather seats, wood trim, and a panoramic sunroof. Its infotainment system, while dated, still includes navigation and smartphone connectivity. Rear passengers enjoy executive-level comfort, with ample legroom and available entertainment options. One potential drawback of the Jaguar XJ is its reputation for reliability challenges. If you find one with a well-documented service history, it can be a stylish and powerful option.
- Engine: 5.0-liter supercharged V8
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Horsepower: 470 hp
- Torque: 424 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 155 mph
5. 2015 Dodge Charger R/T
For those preferring American muscle in a sedan, the 2015 Dodge Charger R/T is an excellent choice. Its 5.7-liter HEMI V8 cranks out 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, offering an aggressive driving experience. The Charger R/T features rear-wheel drive and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The spacious interior includes an intuitive Uconnect infotainment system, a powerful sound system, and comfortable seating for five. Compared to luxury brands, maintenance costs are relatively low, and parts are readily available.
- Engine: 5.7-liter V8
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Horsepower: 370 hp
- Torque: 395 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 5.2 seconds
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 135 mph
6. 2013 BMW M5
The 2013 BMW M5 merges luxury with track-ready capability. Its twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 produces 560 horsepower, making it the most powerful sedan on this list. Its advanced seven-speed dual-clutch transmission enables a blistering 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds. The M5 provides high-end materials, a driver-focused cockpit, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system. Adjustable suspension settings allow for customization of the ride. It requires meticulous servicing, but for enthusiasts, it’s one of the best bargains.
- Engine: 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Horsepower: 560 hp
- Torque: 502 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 4.0 seconds
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
- Top Speed: 155 mph
7. 2013 Lexus LS 460
The 2013 Lexus LS 460 is the most reliable option, equipped with a naturally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 producing 386 horsepower. Lexus’s focus on build quality means even higher-mileage examples still feel luxurious. The cabin includes soft leather, real wood trim, and a user-friendly infotainment system. The LS 460 can surpass 250,000 miles without significant problems.
- Engine: 4.6-liter V8
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Horsepower: 386 hp
- Torque: 367 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 5.4 seconds
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 130 mph
8. 2015 BMW 750i
The 2015 BMW 750i combines German engineering with V8 power. The twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 generates 445 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph acceleration in just 4.6 seconds. Inside, the 750i boasts soft leather upholstery, real wood trim, and a sophisticated iDrive infotainment system. The long-wheelbase version (750Li) provides extra rear-seat legroom. Despite potential maintenance costs, the 750i offers speed, luxury, and prestige at a lower cost.
- Engine: 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Horsepower: 445 hp
- Torque: 480 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 155 mph
9. 2017 Chrysler 300 S
The Chrysler 300 S blends bold design with a powerful 5.7-liter HEMI V8, producing 363 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. The interior offers premium leather upholstery and an 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system. Maintenance costs are relatively low, and parts are readily available. The 300 S offers performance, comfort, and affordability making it a great value on the used market.
- Engine: 5.7-liter V8
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Horsepower: 363 hp
- Torque: 394 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 131 mph
10. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 550 with its coupe-like roofline, looks far more expensive than its current used price. Power comes from a 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 402 horsepower and 443 pound-feet of torque. The interior boasts high-quality materials and advanced technology. The CLS 550’s reliability depends on maintenance history.
- Engine: 4.7-liter twin-turbo V8
- Drivetrain: RWD
- Horsepower: 402 hp
- Torque: 443 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds
- Transmission: 7-speed automatic
- Top Speed: 155 mph
By exploring the used car market, you can get a powerful V8 sedan with luxury features at an affordable price, avoiding the compromises often associated with new car purchases. These ten options provide excellent performance and style without breaking the bank.
