10 Cars With 500 Horsepower Under $50K That Feel Illegal to Drive

These vehicles offer nice handling performance at an attractive price tag. These days, shoppers can procure a 500 horsepower performance car for under half a million dollars. Remember, this affordability isn’t only applicable to performance. Besides recording excellent performance, these vehicles are surprisingly pocket-friendly compared to their competition.

Under the test, these vehicles always topped the horsepower figures given by the manufacturers. A light tap on the throttle will release a quick response, drawing smoke clouds into its wake, and its powerful sound and engine roar will amaze those around it. Whether you admire the forceful debut of a V8 or the elegance of a German limousine, or take pleasure in the rare mixture of comfort and athleticism in a supercar, this group is specially designed for you.

The best part? Apart from being compelling vehicles, they also have well-presented engines and high-end interiors, which allow owners to customize their exhausts based on their style preference. If you don’t want to spend a fortune but still want to enjoy traditional looks, you will find several interesting options here.

Our list comprises ten vehicles under $50,000, all with engines rated over 500 horsepower, all of which are included in this list. Further down the list, you’ll find cars that combine genuine design with powerful performance, creating a unique and undying driving experience for those who understand it.

These cars come with high-quality engine performance and a reasonable price (anyone looking for fun on the road).

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#1. 2020 Ford Mustang GT500 (Used)

Horsepower: 760 hp
Engine: 5.2L Supercharged V8
Torque: 625 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 3.3 seconds
Used Price Range: $48,000–$50,000

What drives the Mustang GT500 is that with the assistance of a supercharged 5.2-liter V8, it can produce 760 horsepower and 625 lb-ft of torque, respectively. With a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission to its credit, the GT500, which takes just 3.3 seconds to achieve 0-60 mph, has no rival. The GT500 enjoys remarkable design both inside and out, not to mention the excellent handling that makes every drive so pleasurable because of its distinctive bullhorn exhaust.

Though new GT500 models begin at around $48000 to $50,000 getting behind the wheel of a GT500 is more than just that. It arouses this glaring sense of crossing and stretching boundaries, heightening with the raw magnitude that lies under your fingertips.

#2. 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 (Used)

Horsepower: 650 hp
Engine: 6.2L Supercharged V8
Torque: 650 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 3.5 seconds
Used Price Range: $44,000–$49,000

Despite all this investment in advanced magnetic ride control, Brembo brakes, and aerodynamics, Chevrolet invests those resources in the Camaro ZL1’s incredible agility and dynamism. Used ZL1 models will usually go for $44,000 – $49,000, a reasonable price for a car with sharp lines, distinctive exhaust sound, and aerodynamic belligerence, which the ZL1 delivers when you twist the throttle.

#3. 2016 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat (Used)

Horsepower: 707 hp
Engine: 6.2L Supercharged HEMI V8
Torque: 650 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 3.6 seconds
Used Price Range: $40,000–$48,000

Powered by a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine, the Charger SRT Hellcat gets an impressive 0-60 mph of 3.6 seconds, giving the driver genuine sports car thrills on any road. Advanced suspension adjustments are advantageous in the Charging Hellcat, improving its comfort and dynamic handling attributes.

Fitted with its potent powertrain, latest technology, comfortable interiors, and spacious cabin, the Charger Hellcat is an everyday vehicle that can keep up with high performance. If you’re interested in a performance sedan and looking for a good deal, consider focusing on second-hand Hellcats priced between $40,000 and $48,000.

#4. 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat (Used)

Horsepower: 707 hp
Engine: 6.2L Supercharged V8
Torque: 650 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 3.4 seconds
Used Price Range: $42,000–$50,000

To hardcore fans, the 2016 Dodge Challenger isn’t a surprise—quick, it accelerates to 60 mph, because of its intense exhaust noise that promotes the thrilling drive. New refined performance upgrades ensure that the Challenger SRT Hellcat retains agility and stability in every case, which is maintained with excellent traction. Challenger SRT Hellcat flaunts a special classic design, which is supported by a reputable visual style that makes it a true maverick anywhere it is.

Remember that your expenses for this model will vary from $42,000 to $50,000. Its renowned American background somewhat devalues the car’s capabilities, although it has an impressive list of specifications. Prepare to witness an absolute dedication to straight performance out there in America.

#5. 2014 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S 4MATIC (Used)

Horsepower: 577 hp
Engine: 5.5L Biturbo V8
Torque: 590 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 3.5 seconds
Used Price Range: $35,000–$45,000

Posed with an uncompromising combination of elegance, speed, and nimble maneuverability, the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S 4MATIC gives the driver an impressive driving experience. The E63 comes with its 5.5-liter turbo V8 engine and delivers 577 horsepower. The M5 F10 impresses drivers with its outstanding ability to handle curves, and much of this is provided by advanced 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and faster acceleration than many other sports cars.

The E63 provides amazing value for used buyers and is within the price range of $35K to $45K, with Mercedes quality and better handling than many rivals. The AMG distinguishes itself from the market by being a singular combination of advanced refinement in perfect blend, truly invigorating road dynamics.

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#6. 2013 BMW M5 F10 (Used)

Horsepower: 560 hp
Engine: 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8
Torque: 500 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 3.7 seconds
Used Price Range: $25,000–$38,000

The BMW M5 F10 is an exceptional combination of executive sedans’ versatility and high-quality driving characteristics characteristic of sports cars. Simple and modern, the CTS-V’s stylish appearance hides a highly valued engine at its core. Inside this sedan is the high-performance BMW M5 F10.

The price for the maximum horsepower for the F 10 M5 will be under $ 25,000 to $ 38,000, and that is an incredible value for a car. It hides an astonishing amount of power behind its understated exterior, and the CTS-V’s ability to pass her unnoticed amongst the ranks of executive sedans is both blunt and raw. F10 M5 achieves the perfect anticipation of people lusting for refined, luxurious, and standout driving ability, adding up to a standout in its class.

#7. 2015 Cadillac CTS-V (Used)

Horsepower: 640 hp
Engine: 6.2L Supercharged V8
Torque: 630 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 3.6 seconds
Used Price Range: $40,000–$50,000

Though the Cadillac CTS-V is relatively low on luxury and even lower on horsepower, it is a serious driver’s car. Underneath the hood on the Cadillac CTS-V, there lies a 6. With the classy 4-door configuration and aerodynamic appearance inside, the CTS-V achieves a 3.6-second 0-60.

The Magnetic Ride Control of the CTS-V makes it easy to handle through tight turns, while still providing a comfortable ride and mixing luxurious comfort and spirited performance for daily driving and track use. You hardly see such power and extravagance for less than $40,000; an old CTS-V car can be purchased for about $50,000. The CTS-V demonstrates the possibility that a luxury sedan could have excellent performance. Yet with its performance advantage, it offers the grace and refinement unique to premium executive cars.

#8. 2014 Jaguar XFR-S (Used)

Horsepower: 550 hp
Engine: 5.0L Supercharged V8
Torque: 502 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 4.3 seconds
Used Price Range: $35,000–$45,000

The Jaguar XFR-S is a highly engineered British car with an indelible driving experience. With a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine under the hood, the XFR-S delivers 550 horsepower. The XFR-S has at its heart the brand’s reputation for excellent handling, a plush cabin, and its distinct engine sound. Passing its production and limited supply, the XFR-S is a model of a kind in Jaguar’s high-performance catalog.

The XFR-S is available for as little as $50,000 used and will allow you to take home impressive driving fun and luxurious accommodations. With the XFR-S coming, Jaguar hoped to provide luxury with a refined experience entwined with raw power to those customers who want a different product in the market.

#9. 2016 Tesla Model S P90D (Used)

Horsepower: 503 hp( Front & Rear Combined)
Torque: Instant torque
0–60 mph: 2.8 seconds (Ludicrous Mode)
Used Price Range: $40,000–$48,000

A scandal came in 2016 with the Tesla Model S P90D; its performance was unexpected in the range: excellent acceleration and eco driving. As a result of the use of dual electric motors and the pleasantness of Tesla Ludicrous Mode, all the P90D Standard is populated with a glossy touchscreen interface and minimalist interior.

For anyone looking for cheap electric performance, there is the Model S P90D, which may be found in a second-hand state within the range of $40,000 to $48,000.

#10. 2013 Audi RS7 (Used)

Horsepower: 560 hp
Engine: 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8
Torque: 516 lb-ft
0–60 mph: 3.7 seconds
Used Price Range: $35,000–$47,000

Although the design of the Audi RS 7 hints at a high-end coupe, it is a well-thought-out performance sedan. Underneath the RS7’s striking performance-oriented exterior is the high performance of the RS7. Thanks to its expensive and contemporary cabin, the RS7 offers both excellent performance and everyday comfort, and thus it is an attractive model for both racing enthusiasts and regular commuters.

The RS7 line comprises several versions, none exceeding $35,000-$47,000. Functionally, each RS7 model is an outstanding value for its money. Among the defining characteristics of the RS7 is how it performs much better and is cost-effective.

Conclusion

500 Horsepower for under $50K (let alone towing a trailer with an SUV) used to be nothing more than a far-fetched fantasy just a few years ago – the domain mainly of old car owner-builders or performance car gatherers. The availability of used performance cars today paints a very different picture. An expanded marketplace for high-performance ride, which includes new muscle, luxury, and EVs, allows us to have a trackable ride for a fraction of what it used to cost.

From the untamed power of a Dodge Hellcat, to the refined drive of a BMW M5, Audi RS7, or instant kick off from Tesla Model S P90D, these cars offer supercar thrills for much more than the tagline’s name. The luxurious and reliable construction make them as suitable for daily use in the great for quality as they are impressive in their performance. Keep in mind: having a car with high horsepower going is not only about reaching the top speed – it’s about mastering its power. Use the power wisely, enjoy your experiences, and always prioritize safety.