For many people, their dream cars always seem just out of reach. From luxurious models to beauty-with-power performance machines, these vehicles often come with lofty price tags that make them inaccessible for most drivers’ budgets. But the truth is, you can partially empty your bank account if you want a classic dream car from the ’90s; many options are available. In fact, this post will look at eight surprisingly affordable 1990s dream cars. With powerful engines and plenty of styles, these are cars that any driver can turn into their ultimate ride!
Contents
- 1 What Makes 1990’s Cars So Great?
- 2 Affordable 1990s Dream Cars
- 3 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra
- 4 Mazda RX-7 (FD)
- 5 Nissan Skyline GT-R
- 6 Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 (C4)
- 7 Aston Martin DB7
- 8 Chevrolet Corvette (C5)
- 9 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
- 10 Lotus Esprit
- 11 Enjoy Driving One Of These Affordable 1990s Dream Cars!
What Makes 1990’s Cars So Great?
The 1990s saw a resurgence of classic car designs, with some iconic new models being released. These cars boasted impressive features such as more efficient engines with better gas mileage and plenty of power; sleek designs with modern touches such as straight lines and smooth surfaces; advanced features such as adjustable seats and steering wheels; and more reliable components than ever before.
Slick advertising campaigns helped popularize these cars further, increasing sales both domestically and internationally. All these factors combined to make the 1990s an excellent car era, providing a unique blend of classic style and modern convenience that customers were looking for.
Affordable 1990s Dream Cars
While some cars from the 1990s are now highly sought-after collector’s items, there are still plenty of affordable options for those who want a classic ride without breaking the bank. Here are some of the top picks:
Ford Mustang SVT Cobra

Regarding affordable 1990s muscle cars, the Ford Mustang SVT Cobra is hard to beat. This vehicle was built to compete with the Camaro SS and Firebird Trans Am and certainly held its own. The SVT Cobra was equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produced 240 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque. It also featured a sport-tuned suspension, performance brakes, and a limited-slip differential.
Today, you can find a 1990s Ford Mustang SVT Cobra for less than $15,000. While some models may require maintenance and repairs, many are still in excellent condition and offer a thrilling driving experience.
Mazda RX-7 (FD)

The Mazda RX-7 has always been a favorite among sports car enthusiasts, and the third-generation (FD) model is particularly desirable. The FD’s twin-turbocharged 1.3-liter rotary engine produced up to 237 horsepower. It also featured a sleek, aerodynamic body design and a well-balanced chassis.
While RX-7 prices have risen in recent years, it’s still possible to find a decent FD model for under $30,000. With its unique engine and stylish looks, the RX-7 is a standout choice for those looking for a 1990s dream car.
Nissan Skyline GT-R

The Nissan Skyline GT-R is an iconic Japanese sports car never officially sold in the United States. However, due to a law that allows vehicles 25 years or older to be imported without restrictions, the R32 model is now legal to own in America. The R32 GT-R was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 2.6-liter inline-six engine that produced 276 horsepower.
If you’re a fan of Japanese sports cars, the Skyline GT-R is a must-have for your collection. It also featured all-wheel drive and advanced handling technology, making it a dominant force in Japanese touring car racing. While pristine R32 GT-R models can fetch high prices, it’s possible to find a decent one for less than $25,000.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 (C4)

When it was first introduced in 1990, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 was one of the fastest and most expensive American sports cars ever made. The ZR-1 was equipped with a 5.7-liter V8 engine that produced 380 horsepower, making it capable of reaching 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. Not to mention, it had an aggressive body kit and a host of performance upgrades.
The C4 Corvette ZR-1 is now a timeless classic, but you can still find one at an affordable price of less than $20,000. So if your dream has always been to drive a thrilling sports car from the ’90s with unrivaled power and style, this is your chance!
Aston Martin DB7

Combining both form and function, the Aston Martin DB7 is a luxurious grand tourer that boasts a hand-crafted body design and an immaculate interior. With up to 335 horsepower coming from its 3.2-liter inline-six engine, this vehicle stands out among other sports cars of its time period from 1994 to 2004.
While the DB7 was once out of reach for most car enthusiasts, it’s now possible to find a decent one for under $30,000. While maintenance costs may be higher than other 1990s dream cars, the DB7’s timeless design and elegant driving experience make it a worthwhile investment.
Chevrolet Corvette (C5)

While the C4 Corvette was a standout sports car in the 1990s, the fifth-generation model (C5) took things to the next level. The C5 had a 5.7-liter LS1 V8 engine that produced up to 345 horsepower. It also featured a lightweight body design, advanced suspension technology, and a refined interior.
The C5 Corvette is the ideal 1990s dream car for those searching for a bargain. Offering unbeatable performance and timeless style, you can find one of these cars today at an astonishingly affordable price below $20,000!
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (or Evo) is a high-performance sports sedan introduced in 1992. The Evo was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced up to 244 horsepower. It also featured all-wheel drive and advanced handling technology, making it a popular choice among rally racers.
While some Evo models have become quite expensive due to their rarity and performance capabilities, it’s still possible to find a decent one for less than $30,000. With its thrilling driving experience and rally-inspired design, the Lancer Evolution is a great choice for those looking for a unique 1990s dream car.
Lotus Esprit

The Lotus Esprit is a classic British sports car that was produced from 1976 to 2004. It was equipped with a turbocharged 3.5-liter V8 engine, producing up to 612 horsepower. It also featured a lightweight body design, advanced handling technology, and a luxurious interior. The Esprit’s final generation, produced from 1996 to 2004, is particularly desirable.
And while a pristine Esprit can be expensive, it’s possible to find a decent one for less than $35,000. For a car that James Bond himself once drove, that’s a bargain! So why not add a bit of 007 mystique to your 1990s dream car collection?
Enjoy Driving One Of These Affordable 1990s Dream Cars!
The 1990s was an incredible decade for sports cars, and that’s evident in the sheer variety of dream cars on this list. From powerful muscle cars like the Corvette ZR-1 to luxurious grand tourers like the Aston Martin DB7 – there truly is something for everyone. So if you are thinking about getting some nostalgia in your garage, consider one of these affordable 1990s dream cars! It could be just the thing to bring back the fun of driving.