2017 Nissan 370Z NISMO
If a two-seater coupe is more your style, the 370Z NISMO fits the bill. Its 3.7-liter V-6 slings the car to a top speed of 160 miles per hour with 350 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque. It comes in at 4.9 seconds 0-60 mph which is still respectable considering the company it keeps. You choose – the 6-speed manual or the 7-speed auto. It’s NISMO-tuned suspension means you’re going to feel like you’re going fast because you’ll feel every bump. The 2017 Nissan 370Z NISMO is $41,990 with standard equipment.
2016 Audi S4
The Audi S4 looks like it’s all business. When it’s time to loosen your tie, it’s ready to play as well. Its V-6 is supercharged, making the German sedan wind up tightly when you lay into the throttle. What’s more, the S4 is equipped with Quattro all-wheel drive, so all that power makes its way to the pavement. The top speed is limited to 155 mph. It takes just five seconds to get from a full stop to 60 mph. It’s price tag also manages to come in under budget – barely – at $49,200 with the 6-speed manual. A strict $50K budget doesn’t allow for the upgrade to 7-speed S Tronic DCT automatic transmission, sorry.
2017 BMW M240i
Rounding out the top ten most powerful cars under $50,000 is the BMW M240i. It’s everything you expect in a Bimmer. The classic BMW design, sexy body lines, and a well-equipped interior. The M240i uses a Performance TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter V-6 with a thoroughly usable 335 horsepower. While not the one of the most powerful cars on the list, its curb weight is only 3,499 pounds with the six speed manual trans. That equalizes the power-to-weight ratio, compared to higher horsepower models that are also heavier. An 8-speed Sport Automatic gearbox with paddle shifters is also available. The combination of luxury and performance makes it noteworthy. Like the Audi S4, it’s electronically limited to 155 mph and speeds to 60 mph in around 5 seconds. The rear-wheel drive version is just $44,450. Or, you can get under the $50K threshold with the convertible at $49,050.
