Supercars are expensive; there’s no denying that. In fact, these dedicated speed machines are so pricey, the mere notion of owning and maintaining one can send bank accounts into a state of terror. So, what to do when you find yourself on a bit of a budget? Shop for a pre-loved supercar of course.
We recently trawled South Africa’s leading online classifieds to find the best pre-owned supercars for under R1 million. The criteria for our online shopping spree were simple: each car had to cost under R1 million, it had to be in proper working condition and had to have a respectable 100 km/h sprint time.
While the following cars are not necessarily the most affordable in their respective model line-ups, we have opted to take a series of elements into consideration, ranging from price to odometer reading, and even the possibility of future classic status.
THIS IS DRIVEN’S TOP 5 SUPERCARS UNDER A BAR:
5. 2009 Maserati Gran Turismo Sport
A Maserati isn’t built for outright speed. Nor is it designed to mirror the acceleration sprint performance that usually goes hand-in-hand with Italian howlers — well not really. See, if there’s one thing Maserati is particularly good at, it is creating that thrilling sensation that draws a smile on your face when you make the daily milk run, or that appreciative tap you give the steering wheel when you steer out of a tight corner. That is what this carmaker is really good at.
BEST DEAL: R699,900
4. 2009 Aston Martin Vantage
This is the gentleman’s weekend racer. The Aston Martin V8 Vantage is classy and cultured, but when push comes to shove, it can take off its gloves and give the best of ‘em a jolly good thrashing. Dishing out this hiding is partly made possible thanks to the increased power and engine capacity of the MY2009 Vantage. It boasts 0.4-litres more than the previous model with an 11% power increase.
BEST DEAL: R850,000
3. 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS
The bloodline of the Porsche 911 can be traced all the way back to the classic air-cooled Volkswagen Beetle. Today, though, the 911 is a favourite amongst driving enthusiasts who enjoy the well-mannered nature in which this supercar conducts itself. The recipe of the 911’s success has largely been unchanged throughout the years: bolt the engine into the back, partly to aid traction, squeeze as much power from the engine as possible and voila!
BEST DEAL: R995,000
2. 2012 Audi R8 4.2 FSI Quattro R-Tronic
The Audi R8 is regarded by many as the best all-round supercar. It has rip-roaring performance, excellent handling characteristics — thanks to the Quattro all-wheel-drive system — and an element of Audi’s renowned reliability. This specific car is powered by Audi’s V8 4.2 FSI engine, as opposed to its bigger sibling that is endowed with a V10 5.2-litre. Don’t underestimate it, though, if you poke it with a stick, it will bite.
BEST DEAL: R989,900
1. 2010 Nissan GT-R Black Edition
The Nissan GT-R35 is where supercar performance and practicality come together in an inexpensive (for a supercar) package. It’s powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine that delivers a 33 kW bump over that of the standard GT-R, and can even transport four passengers and their luggage in reasonable comfort. Also specific to the Black Edition is a set of 20” RAYS wheels, as well as a carbon fibre spoiler.
BEST DEAL: R879,899 (Driven’s best-buy)
Report by DEON VAN DER WALT ǀ Images © NETCARSHOW.COM
