Buying a car that commands respect usually costs hundreds of thousands of dollars, but it doesn’t have to be this way. We’ve listed 17 brands recognized for their highest prestige that make you look like you’re wealthy, even though they’re actually quite affordable!
Porsche
The Porsche brand has maintained its timeless design over the past 70 years, and it’s now instantly recognizable, regardless of the line you choose to drive. Many Porsches are undeniably expensive, but you can choose the earlier versions of the Porsche Cayman S for a balance between luxury and affordability.
Corvette
Known as America’s sports car by CNBC and every car lover, the Corvette is an iconic brand perfect for those who need speed without breaking the bank. While the Chevy and Stingray models are awesome, Corvette ZR1s from the early 2000s are good-looking, budget-friendly alternatives.
Jaguar
Whether it’s a sedan or a top-end SUV, Jaguars are statements of class that have provided us with luxury commuting since 2022. The brand is known for its sports line of cars with massive engines and awesome performance. And for a budget-friendly Jaguar car, you can go for the sleek-looking Jaguar XKR.
Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeos have been engaged in sports racing alongside Ferraris and Mercedes since 1911, so it’s no surprise that they get as much prestige as some of the most popular exotic cars in the market. Models easily cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, but the Alfa Romeo 4C offers an enticing price point.
Rolls-Royce
Rolls-Royce has some of the most expensive cars on the market. In fact, the company’s engineering is so good that Reuters says it makes enormous profits from making commercial aircraft engines, too! Thankfully, you can opt for the older, vintage versions, like the Rolls Royce Silver Spirit, for an affordable option.
Maserati
One brand that comes with a subtle build but is instantly recognizable as high-class is Maserati. This Italian manufacturer has given us revered coupes and four-door sedans like the Spyder and GranTurismo. Today, some of the best deals you’ll get are on the Maserati Ghibli and Quattroporte.
Aston Martin
Aston Martin is an ultra-luxury British brand that gives you as much exclusivity as Porsches without sacrificing design or comfort. James Bond’s popular choice of car was the Aston Martin DB5, and while this could set you back a million dollars, earlier versions of the Vantage Roadster are way more affordable options.
Audi
Everyone knows Audis are built with the highest-quality materials and the latest automotive technology, starting with Type A Sport-Phaeton and continuing to the S5 coupes we have today. The best part about them is that new models still come at price points that won’t cost you a house.
Bentley
Bentley cars have been simply extraordinary in craftsmanship since 1919. Forbes calls some of its latest issues “ultra-five-diamond” automobiles that are both explosively fast and comfortable. It’s no wonder Bentleys are some of the most expensive on our list. Nonetheless, you can get one through entry-level models like the Bentayga SUV.
BMW
BMWs have been one of the most popular luxury vehicles in the world for decades now, coming with a minimalistic ergonomic design to supplement their high performance. If you’re looking for luxury vehicles with superior resale value, the BMW M2 comes at the perfect price point.
Mercedes Benz
Not much needs to be said about Mercedes-Benz; Mercedes built the first car with an internal combustion engine, and since then, we’ve had the G Wagons, Maybachs, and S-Class models. For affordability, the CLA and GLA classes are optimal, as they have sleek modern designs and cost below $40,000.
Lotus Elise
One brand name you hardly hear flying around is the Lotus Elise. However, if you’re looking for cars with futuristic designs that are cheaper than Porsches and Bentleys, you’ve hit the jackpot here. Lotus Elise is a British brand that offers a range of two-seater speedsters brand new for $50,000.
Range Rover
If you want an amazing, luxury off-road brand, look no further than the Range Rover. The brand is known for its great build quality and amenities. When it comes to balancing affordable and luxury design, the older, supercharged Range Rover Sport SVRs are your best bet.
Cadillac
Cadillac is known to produce cars with fashionable, precise finishes, and no other models hold more prestige than the Celestiq and Escalade. Despite the brand’s status as ultra-luxury, you can still demand respect and look wealthy on a budget with cheaper models like the CT4 and XT5.
Volkswagen
Volkswagen has promised quality and style for decades, and the brand hasn’t failed in its promises since it was established in 1946. Any Volkswagen will provide you with comfort, but when it comes to appearance, there’s no better budget option than the Volkswagen Arteon, which US News calls “handsome both outside and inside.”
Fiat
Fiats are exotic cars known for their sporty speeds and sleek, comfortable designs. The brand owns other brands like Maserati and Alfa Romeo, and for a luxurious look, you can go for very affordable Fiat convertibles like the Fiat 124 Spider.
Tesla
Last but not least, how could we wrap up without leaving you with a luxury electric car? Elon Musk’s premium car brand offers us some of the most future-proof features you’ll find in cars today, with some cutting-edge models, such as an entry-level Model 3 being priced at just over $40,000.
Up Next: 17 Phrases Older People Use That No One Else Gets
Each and every generation has its own phrases and sayings that separate it from the rest, and the boomers certainly have plenty. Discover 17 popular boomer phrases that aren’t often used today and what they mean. Maybe you’ll want to bring some of them back!
17 Phrases Older People Use That No One Else Gets
People Who Don’t Show Empathy Usually Have These 18 Traits
The world would be a better place if everyone had a little more empathy. But sadly, in reality, some people show much less empathy than we’d like. Here are 18 traits of people who don’t show empathy.
People Who Don’t Show Empathy Usually Have These 18 Traits
The 17 Unhappiest States in America
The US has hit an all-time low position in the World Happiness Index, tumbling to 23rd in 2024. However, it’s important to remember that location is an important factor; many US states are very happy, unlike the following 17 US states that appear to be the most unhappy.