A final thought on getting something fast and frugal: Luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benzwill always command a price premium that puts their wares just out of reach for someone looking to save money. The BMW 1-Series coupe would have made our list when it was first introduced, but recent price increases have bumped the base price of a 128i to $30,950. And buying one for even that price is unlikely, Edmunds says.
The cars come so loaded with upgrades and extras that paying even $35,000 would be a lucky deal.
The Fastest Cars Under $30,000
 Ford Mustang GT |
Ford Mustang GT
Engine: 5.0L V8
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Zero-to-60 mph: 4.8 seconds
Price: $29,145
 Subaru Impreza WRX |
Subaru Impreza WRX
Engine: 2.5L H4 turbo
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Zero-to-60 mph: 5.2 seconds
Price: $25,495
 Ford Mustang Coupe |
Ford Mustang Coupe
Engine: 3.7L V6
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Zero-to-60 mph: 5.6 seconds
Price: $22,145
 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart |
Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart
Engine: 2.0L L4 turbo
Transmission: 6-speed automated manual
Zero-to-60 mph: 5.8 seconds
