Today we’re going to look at the top 19 highest horsepower cars under $50k on the market! Prepare yourself because some of these are so powerful they can bring you to tears.
Therefore, don’t forget to leave a comment about your favorite. And feel free to suggest any other supercars we should check out in the comments section below.
1. 2018 Volkswagen GTI
- Price:$24,995
- Horsepower: 220 Hp
The 2018 Volkswagen GTI is a compact performance car. It has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard, but a six-speed dual-clutch automatic can also be ordered.
However, the GTI comes in four trim levels: SE, SEL, Autobahn, and R Autobahn. Pricing ranges from $24,995 for the SE to $34,995 for the R Autobahn trim level, with destination fees included in those prices. And it’s one of the highest horsepower cars under $50k.
2. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X
- Price: $38,815
- Horsepower: 291 Hp
The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X is a car that offers all the power you need. It may not be a luxury vehicle, but it does offer an exhilarating driving experience. That is, for those who want to feel the road beneath their feet.
Moreso, the Lancer Evolution X comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 291 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.
With this kind of power, you can get to 60 mph in just five seconds and reach speeds up to 150 miles/hr!
3. 2017 Cadillac ATS-V
- Price: $40,000
- Horsepower: 445 Hp
For those who want a cheap and relatively powerful car, the 2017 Cadillac ATS-V is a great option. With 455 HP and 445 lb-ft torque, it outperforms many other sports cars in its price range.
This model has won several awards, including Motor Trend’s Best Driver’s Car for 2016. this goes for $40000.
Also, the ATS-V comes with a lightweight aluminum frame, four-piston Brembo brakes, and adaptive suspension, which makes it one of the most well-equipped vehicles in its class. And also one of the highest horsepower cars under $50k.
4. 2020 BMW 228i
- Price: $33,800
- Horsepower: 230 Hp
The 2020 BMW 228i is one of the most powerful and luxurious cars you can get for under five thousand dollars. This car has a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 230 horsepower and 258 lb-ft torque.
Besides, the 2020 BMW 228i is an all-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive sport. Then, a coupe with a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic transmission option.
Some additional features on the 2020 BMW 228i include heated seats, power seats, and voice control. Fortunately, this costs just $33800.
5. 2016 Ford Focus RS
- Price: $37,000
- Horsepower: 350 Hp
The Ford Focus RS is the latest car to take on the family name, and it’s a blast to drive. With 350 hp, this car can outrun some high-end sports cars. The handling is tight and responsive but still comfortable enough for daily driving.
Also, it has a long list of standard features that you normally have to pay extra for in other makes and models.
Add in all-wheel drive, Brembo brakes, and Recaro seats. And you’ve got a pretty serious machine that won’t break the bank with just $37000.
6. 2020 BMW M235i
- Price: $46,150
- Horsepower: 240 Hp
The 2020 BMW M235i is one of the most powerful vehicles on the market for its price. And it’s one of the highest horsepower cars under $50k.
It has a twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder engine and delivers 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This amazing car goes for $46,150.
In fact, the M235i can go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. This BMW vehicle is also great because it offers all-wheel drive to help with stability during adverse weather conditions.
7. 2018 Audi A7
- Price: $42,500
- Horsepower: 340 Hp
This Audi A7 is a four-door sedan that has a 7-speed automatic transmission. It seats five passengers and has a 5.2L V8 engine.
The power is transferred from the engine to the front wheels. Through an 8-speed Tiptronic system with steering wheel mounted shift paddles.
Moreso, this car can reach up to 155 miles per hour. And it has a top speed of 160 miles per hour with average fuel consumption of 19 mpg. With just $42,500, you can get this.
8. 2016 Infiniti Q50S
- Price: $51,300
- Horsepower: 350 Hp
The Infiniti Q50S is a luxury car with 350 horsepower and one of the highest horsepower cars under $50k.
The 2016 model comes with a 3.7-liter V6 engine and all-wheel drive. It is equipped with four-piston front brake calipers and six-piston rear calipers.
Moreover, the Q50S is available in seven exterior colors, six interior colors, and three-wheel options. The 2016 Audi S4 starts at $51,300 for the Premium Plus trim level, producing 333 hp.
Additionally, the 2017 Audi S4 comes with an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. Then, turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine with 400 hp, standard Quattro all-wheel drive system, and sports suspension system.
9. 2018 Volkswagen Golf R
- Price: $38,995
- Horsepower: 292 Hp
The 2018 Volkswagen Golf R is unique in its performance and price point. And also among the highest horsepower cars under $50k.
It’s the most expensive on this list, but it is still one of the most affordable high-performance coupes.
Moreso, it offers an impressive 292 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. That is, from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Also, its only downfall is that it’s not available with all-wheel drive, which may make it less appealing to those living in snowy climates.
10. Subaru WRX STI
- Price: $34,695
- Horsepower: 305 Hp
The Subaru WRX STI is a four-door, all-wheel drive sedan with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. This vehicle can get from zero to sixty in 4.6 seconds and has 305 horsepower.
Nevertheless, the trunk space is small, but it is perfect for those who like to go off-roading. Or those that just want the thrill of a high-performance car.
The next one on the list is the BMW M3 with 328 horsepower and 0-60 in 4.4 seconds for about $34695.
11. Hyundai Genesis Coupe
- Price: $36,740
- Horsepower: 290 Hp
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a two-door, four-passenger sports car. That offers the best combination of driving excitement and fuel efficiency in its class.
Its powerful 3.8L V6 engine produces 290HP with 275 lb-ft torque for about $36740. Also, the new rear-wheel drive coupe has an independent suspension with five different ride settings.
And 18-inch alloy wheels for greater grip on the road. The Genesis Coupe is available in six exterior colors: black, blue, red, silver, gold, and white.
12. Dodge Challenger SRT 392
- Price: $49,195
- Horsepower: 475 Hp
The Dodge Challenger SRT 392 is a muscle car that was redesigned in 2011 with a 392-cubic-inch engine.
This type of engine has not been used on a Challenger since the 1970s and features an eight-cylinder design.
The 2015 Challenger has been designed to deliver up to 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque for about $49195.
In fact, it can go from zero to sixty mph in 4.2 seconds with the six-speed manual transmission. And 4.4 seconds with the automatic transmission. The top speed is 199 mph, which is achieved by both transmissions as well.
13. 2020 Nissan 370Z Nismo
- Price: $45,490
- Horsepower: 710 Hp
If you want a used car, but want something with some power, here are the highest horsepower cars under $50k.
The 2020 Nissan 370Z Nismo is our top pick at 710 hp. This can go from 0-60 in 3.1 seconds and has a top speed of 196 mph for about $45490.
Moreso, it features an aluminum body that makes it weigh 1,300 pounds less than its predecessor. And the three-piece Torsen limited-slip differential helps reduce torque steer when accelerating out of corners.
14. 2022 Mercedes AMG CLA45
- Price: $48,950
- Horsepower: 355 Hp
With a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the CLA45 produces 355 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm.
The AMG features an AMG Speedshift DCT seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. And that can achieve 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph.
However, the CLA45 comes standard with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive system that is electronically controlled. And to split torque between the front and rear axles for maximum traction on wet, snowy, or dry roads.
Therefore, the Mercedes CLA45 will satisfy those looking for a stylish car with plenty of power for just $48950. And also want performance to match that won’t break the bank.
15. 2016 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350
- Price: $47,795
- Horsepower: 526 Hp
The 2016 Ford Shelby Mustang GT350 is an excellent option for those who want a car with a high amount of power. The car costs about 47,795 dollars, which is relatively inexpensive for a vehicle with such great specs.
Moreso, this car has 526 hp, and it can go from 0-60 mph in 3 seconds! Plus, this car can go on the track with no problem.
16. 2021 Chevy Camaro SS
- Price: $38,895
- Horsepower: 426 Hp
The 2021 Chevy Camaro SS is a top-notch muscle car that delivers power and style at an affordable price. It’s also part of one of the highest horsepower cars under $50k.
The Camaro SS will have a 6.2-liter V8 engine with 426 hp and 420 lb.-ft. Of torque. As well as a 10-speed automatic transmission for quick gear changes and lightning acceleration.
This beast can go 0 to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars on this list with just $38895.
17. 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-Ec
- Price: $43,895
- Horsepower: 710 Hp
If you want to get the most power for your money, a Mustang is a great choice. The Ford Mustang Mach-E has a 710 HP engine, costing just $43895. But be careful: this car can be expensive to finance if you don’t have the cash.
Therefore, if you want to get even more power, there are two Mustang options with a 1000 HP engine. But they cost over $100k, so they might not be worth it unless you’re a die-hard car enthusiast.
Also, if you decide to go with one of these higher-power Mustangs, make sure your bank account is well stocked! Of course, if you can’t afford that much power, there are other ways to improve your vehicle’s performance.
18. Tesla Model 3
- Price: $46,990
- Horsepower: 441 Hp
The Tesla Model 3 is the newest electric car on the market and one of the highest horsepower cars under $50k. And it has a 215-mile range, which puts it at the top of this list.
The new car also has an estimated 0-60 time of 5.1 seconds and can go from 0-100 mph in 4.2 seconds.
Nevertheless, it’s slower than other models but significantly cheaper than most others on this list at just $46990. And also makes up for that with great efficiency.
Also, the Tesla Model 3 is available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. And making it one of the fastest cars available for purchase today.
19. Alfa Romeo Stelvio
- Price: $45,500
- Horsepower: 290 Hp
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio is a high-performance SUV with a gorgeous design and tons of power. And it’s one of the highest horsepower cars under $50k with just $45500.
The Stelvio makes 290 horsepower from its 2.0 liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Basically, it’s easy to drive thanks to its responsive steering, strong brakes, and well-tuned suspension.
Alfa Romeo has created an impressive all-wheel drive machine that handles like it’s on rails. And it looks like it belongs on the showroom floor at the dealership.
Conclusion
As the world’s population grows increasingly aware of the dangers of carbon emissions. Car companies are responding with more environmentally-friendly vehicles.
However, these hybrid cars can be used in gas and electric versions. But they aren’t exactly known for their high horsepower ratings. If you want to make your heart race in your next car, try this list of highest horsepower cars under $50k!
