Owning an M3 is a dream, but its price tag? Not so much. Luckily, plenty of cars deliver serious performance without costing as much. You can have turbocharged speed, V8 muscle, razor-sharp handling, or something else you crave with these ten alternatives to your BMW dream. For some models, you will only find them on the used market, where prices may vary.

Cadillac ATS-V ($68,000)

The sharp and aggressive ATS-V is always ready to impress and doesn’t play around. A twin-turbo V6 delivers 464 horsepower while its chassis stays glued to the pavement. In this car, you’ll enjoy speed and refinement and save yourself some money while at it.

Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE  ($45,000)

Not all Camaros are built for drag strips. The SS 1LE is a precision tool that flaunts magnetic ride control, track-tuned suspension, serious stopping power, and more. Its 455-horsepower V8 pushes past rivals, but its true strength lies in the way it grips corners—American engineering at its finest.

Lexus IS 500 F Sport ($62,000)

If you want muscle without the noise, this Lexus makes a strong case for itself. It doesn’t scream for attention, but the IS 500 F Sport has a secret. Underneath its refined design sits a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that serves an old-school driving experience in a modern package.

Nissan 370Z Nismo ($45,000)

Age may not be on the side of the 370Z Nismo, but it still delivers a purist’s experience. It’s vintage fun with a safe price tag. A naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V6 plus sharp six-speed manual and rear-wheel drive make every drive feel mechanical and raw. 

Genesis G70 3.3T ($44,000)

This car is a true underdog. To prove that performance doesn’t have to mean sacrifice, the Genesis G70 3.3T brings twin-turbo speed, a plush interior, sharp handling, and more—all for far less than the competition. Those who test it know it cannot be ignored.

Subaru WRX STI ($38,000)

When you have an all-wheel drive with turbo power and a manual transmission, what more could you ask for? The WRX STI’s rally-bred roots always shine through. Carving up a mountain road or launching from a stoplight? Its turbocharged flat-four and aggressive handling make every moment feel like an event.

Dodge Charger Scat Pack ($45,000)

Some cars whisper. Others shout. This car roars with 485 horsepower and a classic American muscle attitude. It may be bigger than the M3, but that doesn’t stop it. With rear-wheel drive and a sport-tuned suspension, it can dance when needed. A true powerhouse that will save you some money.

Volkswagen Golf R ($44,000)

Practicality meets performance in the Golf R. It may look like a hatchback, but under the hood sits a turbocharged engine sending power to all four wheels. The result? A car that accelerates like a rocket and handles like a dream. Everyday usability has never been this fun.

Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 ($56,000)

Infinity’s Q50 Red Sport 400 packs a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 pushing 400 horsepower, delivering serious speed. You may not see it in every enthusiast conversation, but it belongs there. It’s a sleeper that blends smooth luxury with unexpected punch. If you want under-the-radar power, take a second look here.

Toyota GR Supra ($54,000)

Here comes irony at its finest: a Toyota built with BMW’s engine. Toyota tuned the GR Supra to perfection. The turbocharged inline-six delivers instant acceleration, while its tight chassis makes every curve feel like an invitation. This is a sports car with heritage, reborn for a new generation.