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Just imagine this: a fast car that can go from 0 to 60 mph in seconds flat, but won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Well, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten most thrilling cars with 400 hp for under 30k.
From sleek sports cars to powerful muscle cars, these affordable rides will get your heart racing and leave you itching to hit the road.
Why You Should Care About Horsepower:
Horsepower Is Key to Car Performance:
When it comes to how well a car will perform on the road – its horsepower matters. More of it means more speed; a stronger engine and a faster pace. However, for many people who enjoy driving this is not only about going fast.
Why Horsepower Matters:
Quick Acceleration: A vehicle with 400 horsepower can really pick up speed quickly. Every drive becomes an adventure as it feels like your heart is racing along with your foot on the pedal.
Better Performance: Responding better thanks to high horsepower these cars handle both straight roads or curves exceptionally well offering an unmatched driving experience.
A Mark of Quality: High horsepower demonstrates the superior engineering that went into making such cars. It shows how well they are built and hints at what kind of driving no other vehicle could offer.
15 Best 400 HP Cars Under 30k:
Powerful vehicles do not always need necessarily to be expensive too! Here are our picks for the top 15 cars with 400 hp under $30k each:
2005 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG:
Price: $14,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 5.4L V8 Supercharged
- 0-60 MPH: 4.5 seconds
- Transmission: 5-speed shiftable automatic
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 13/19 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 15 MPG
2005 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG – Originally representing luxury & performance now available as low as $14k; used ‘05 models feature supercharged V8 engines producing 469hp enabling them to achieve 0-60 times within 4.5sec range before topping out electronically governed maximum speeds around one fifty-five miles per hour still great option any individual searching 400 hp sedan cars under 30k.
2007 Cadillac CTS-V:
Price: $15,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 6.0L V8 Engine
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- 0-60 MPH: 4.6 seconds
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 14/22 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 16 MPG
2007 Cadillac CTS-V – Combining luxuriousness & performance; powered by a 6.0L V8 generating 400hp mated exclusively to six-speed manual transmissions this sedan can compete against BMWs or Mercedes’ AMGs costing twice as much while providing more space inside for passengers who desire comfort too.
2009 Jaguar XF Supercharged:
Price: $16,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 4.2L V8 Supercharged
- 0-60 MPH: 5.1 seconds
- Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 15/23 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 17 MPG
2009 Jaguar XF Supercharged – Mixing British luxury with strong acceleration thanks in part due its supercharger which forces air into the cylinders thereby increasing combustion rates and resulting in an output of around 420 Hp.
Coupled with a rear-wheel drive system it is one of few affordable four-door cars that can beat most two-seat sports cars off the line but keep in mind maintenance costs may be higher than average so consider buying an extended warranty if possible.
2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8:
Price: Around $18,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 6.1L HEMI V
- 0-60 MPH: 4.8 seconds
- Transmission: 5-speed shiftable automatic
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 14/22 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 16 MPG
2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8 – Inspired by classic muscle design cues like muscular haunches over wide rear tires; powered through life via 6.1L HEMI V-8 providing 425 hp mated only with choice between ‘AutoStick’ automatic or Tremec T6060 six-speed manual gearbox sends power out backside via limited slip differential onto fat rubber while featuring retro styled interiors.
All these things should make you want one even more unless all that matters is having the latest infotainment gadgets at which point stop reading now and go buy something else instead.
2010 Audi S6:
Price: $15,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 5.2L V10
- 0-60 MPH: 5.7 seconds
- Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 14/19 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 16 MPG
Audi’s 2010 s6 is a leading luxury sports sedan. It includes a 435-horsepower, 5.2-liter V-10 engine that offers an exciting driving experience.
Costing less than $30,000 and having more than 400 horsepower, this car has all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission with a stylish interior as well.
Although maintenance can be costly for this vehicle, it still provides excellent value in terms of both luxury and performance.
2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged:
Price: $9,500
Key Features:
- Engine: 5.0L V8 Supercharged
- 0-60 MPH: 5.1 seconds
- Transmission: 6-speed shiftable automatic
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 12/17 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 14 MPG
The only choice if what you want is power plus off-road capability would be the Land Rover Range Rover Sport supercharged from the year 2010.
For those who don’t know, let me tell them that this thing has got a five-liter v8 which gives out five hundred ten horses so it could go on rough roads or highways easily.
Priced at around $9500 providing luxury with muscles thus becoming one of the most popular affordable cars featuring cheap cars with 400 hp under 10k.
2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS:
Price: $15,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 6.2L V8
- 0-60 MPH: 4.5 seconds
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 16/24 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 19 MPG
Strong and fun to drive is what defines the 2014 Chevy Camaro SS which boasts of being one of GM’s best cars. With its corvette-derived 426 hp/torque producing LS3 V8 engines coupled with either a speed manual transmission or automatic option.
It offers similar power output as Corvette but costs less making these good deals for anyone looking for cheap cars under 10k with 400 hp even though they might not handle quite so well as their counterparts from Bowling Green.
Since cheaper materials were used throughout the construction process however still offer practicality alongside a great bang-for-the-buck factor.
2014 Ford Mustang GT:
Price: $15,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 5.0L V8
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or automatic
- 0-60 MPH: 4.8 seconds
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 15/26 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 19 MPG
It seems like everything about the 2014 Ford Mustang GT has changed except for one thing: its size category (small). Packed into this agile muscle car is a powerful 420 HP 5.0L V8 engine that rivals Chevy’s Camaro in terms of torque and power output.
The Mustang GT offers roomy space for passengers whereas the Camaro provides a smoother ride; priced similarly to Chevrolet’s model but with better handling dynamics – it’s no wonder why these are among the most popular cars under 30k featuring 400 hp.
2014 Infiniti Q70:
Price: $10,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 3.7-liter V-6
- Transmission: 7-speed shiftable automatic
- 0-60 MPH: 5.5 seconds
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 18/26 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 21 MPG
2014 Infiniti Q70 5.6 is an elegant combination between performance and luxury. It has a 3.7-liter V-6 engine with 330 horsepower, which also delivers good fuel efficiency numbers considering its weight class.
Plus cheap running costs as compared to European counterparts. Comfortable, well-made, and agile describe this car best while it may not be very popular finding one could prove difficult.
However still worth considering especially for those on tight budgets looking at used sedans with 400 horsepower.
2015 Hyundai Genesis:
Price: $15,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 5.0L V8
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- 0-60 MPH: 4.5 seconds
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 15/23 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 18 MPG
A 2015 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 was added to the luxury line of Hyundai’s car. The engine of this particular sedan is a V8, 5.0-liter one having power output equal to 420 horsepower and torque of about 383 lb-ft which combines power with style as well.
It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission that offers a smooth driving experience. Genesis 5.0 is a very good option for those looking for an extravagant sports saloon under $30000 with the 400 horsepowers in it priced at less than $15000.
2015 Kia K900:
Price: $14,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 5.0L V8
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- 0-60 MPH: 5.5 Seconds
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 15/23 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 18 MPG
I think the 2015 Kia K900 is a bit like the Hyundai Genesis because it has a liter v8 engine. But this car is different from other luxury sedans as it reminds you of the classic Lincoln town car with its rich rear-seat features.
Though not too sporty when driven around corners, still gives a very smooth and calm ride all along if comfort matters more than speed then here we are talking about one of the nicest 400hp cars under 30k.
2013 BMW 750i (BMW with over 400 HP):
Price: $13,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8
- Transmission: 8-spd auto w/OD Transmission
- 0-60 MPH: 4.8 seconds
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 16/24 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 19 MPG
This BMW with 400 hp is known for its power and luxury in the category of full-size sedans. It packs a strong engine of 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 which produces 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft torque that will give you a thrilling driving experience.
It’s priced under $15k, so not only does the car have good handling but also has a spacious backseat area where you can relax comfortably during long trips.
While interior design as well as technology may not be up-to-date compared with newer models, this vehicle is focused on providing a fun behind-wheels feeling differentiating it from other latest 7 Series editions.
2006 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG:
Price: $17,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 6.0L V12 Bi-Turbo
- Transmission: 5-speed shiftable automatic
- 0-60 MPH: 4.4 seconds
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 11/18 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 14 MPG
A very powerful option indeed; The 2006 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG boasts a whopping 604 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque produced by its bi-turbocharged V12 engine displacing six liters!
With an approximate price tag of around $17k (which makes it one of the more expensive cars on this list), not only does such a machine offer tremendous amounts of power but also luxuriousness.
However, potential buyers will need deep pockets for maintenance costs associated with owning any high-end luxury automobile including those made by Mercedes Benz themselves!
If you want powerful 400 horsepower sedans then look no further than the quick yet comfortable riding S65 AMG.
2005 Maserati Quattroporte:
Price: $12,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 4.2L V-8 Engine
- Transmission: 6-speed automated manual
- 0-60 MPH: 5.2 seconds
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 11/14 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 12 MPG
You can have yourself an Italian sports car today if you are interested in the 2005 Maserati Quattroporte. This car isn’t just about looks though because it has a Ferrari-built v8 engine displacing just over four liters and producing almost four hundred horses which sounds incredible too!
At current prices hovering around twelve thousand dollars ($12k), one could argue that there is no better way to get into Italian supercar ownership without spending much money…
Even though this particular model may lack some of those ponies we crave from other versions, I still think that people who love Maserati’s unique sound and style would find it hard not to fall in love with Quattroporte.
2005 Chrysler 300 SRT8:
Price: $8,000
Key Features:
- Engine: 6.1L HEMI V8
- Transmission: 5-speed shiftable automatic
- 0-60 MPH: 4.7 seconds
- EPA city/highway (MPG): 13/18 MPG
- EPA combined (MPG): 15 MPG
With a 6.1-liter HEMI V8 engine producing 425 horsepower and 420 lb-ft torque under the hood, the 2005 Chrysler 300 SRT8 is one powerful budget-friendly muscle car – all this for less than ten thousand dollars!
What sets this vehicle apart from other affordable cars with four hundred hp are its aggressive looks combined with strong performance.
Therefore attracting those penny-pinching automobile enthusiasts looking to stand out on roadways… In addition, such a model offers not only great power but also luxury at low prices!
So if you want your next sedan to have lots of horses but don’t want to break the bank doing so then look no further than Chrysler’s class series!
Factors To Consider Buying a 400 HP Car Under $30K:
Vehicle History:
Look at car history. A clean record implies that the vehicle has not been involved in a major accident or required any significant repairs, which usually means that it has been well taken care of.
Mileage and Usage:
Check the mileage on the car and how it has been driven. Higher-performance cars may wear out faster, so aim for lower mileage if possible.
Maintenance Records:
Make sure that regular servicing has been done by checking the maintenance records of the car. This is especially important for high-performance engines to last long.
Professional Inspection:
Have a mechanic look over it professionally. Sometimes there could be hidden problems that may not surface during test drives.
Warranty and After-Sales Support:
Check whether there is an existing warranty for this vehicle or if you can get one extended. Having good after-sales support can save money on future repairs.
Insurance Costs:
The premiums of insurance are often higher on high-performance cars. Get insurance quotes before knowing the cost completely.
Fuel Efficiency:
Long-term running costs should be considered concerning fuel consumption per increased horsepower ratio.
Resale Value:
Consider potential resale value as some high-performance vehicles hold their value better than others which is beneficial when selling later on.
Financing Options:
Investigate financing options available and understand terms such as interest rates and loan duration since they could significantly affect the overall cost of buying a vehicle.
Availability of Parts and Repairs:
Confirm availability both parts-wise as well as repair service-wise for the chosen model else incur longer downtimes during repairs besides higher maintenance costs too
FAQs (400 hp cars under 30k):
What car has the most horsepower for under $30K?
From its 6.0L V12 bi-turbo engine, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG boasts a whopping 604 HP making it the most powerful car for less than 30 grand.
It’s a luxurious sedan that combines power with class and can be found at a price of below $30,000.
What cars have around 400 horsepower?
Some cars with around 400 horsepower include:
The 2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS
The 2014 Ford Mustang GT
The 2013 BMW 750i
These cars are great options for those who want performance without breaking the bank.
Is 400 HP suitable for a car?
Yes, 400 horsepower is indeed quite powerful. With that much power under your hood, you’ll get quick acceleration and high speeds which can make driving on highways or racetracks fun.
Is 400 BHP really fast?
Absolutely, 400 BHP (brake horsepower) is fast. It provides strong acceleration and high top speeds for an exhilarating driving experience.
Which car has stock 500 HP?
The Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged (2010) comes with a whopping five hundred and ten HP. Other sports cars like certain variants of the Chevrolet Corvette or Dodge Charger also have natural figures exceeding five hundred horsepower.
Is 300 HP enough for a car?
Yes! Three hundred horsepower packs quite the punch in some cases. It gives your average passenger vehicle strong performance ability when it comes to quick accelerations and spirited drives while still being manageable as daily transport.
What is the fastest car under $30K?
The undisputed king in this category is none other than the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG from year two thousand six which tops sixty miles per hour in just four seconds thanks to its six hundred and four horsepower engine
Conclusion:
400 horsepower cars can be found for less than thirty thousand dollars.
These could be the 2013 BMW 750i, the 2006 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, the 2014 Chevrolet Camaro SS, or even a 2014 Ford Mustang GT and more.
Great value is offered by them due to their powerful engines, quick acceleration times as well as being luxurious yet practical at once.
In case one desires top speed and driving fun without spending much money then my top picks represent an amazing choice because they deliver just that!