Top ten bargain-price legendary cars

You’ve dreamed of them – they can be yours. On the second-hand market, these relatively recent models only cost a fraction of their original value. So, rather than buy a reliable German turbo sedan, why not plump for one of these titans?

Aston Martin DB9

After the sculptural but ageing DB7, Aston Martin fully embraced the modern era with its DB9, made entirely of aluminium. The V12 sings like a diva, the line is sculptural and the whole thing is – finally – homogenous. Sublime. Expect to pay about €50,000.

Audi R8

With its dreamlike line and menacing look, it charms young and old alike. If it is still in production, the first models go for €55,000 on the second-hand market. For that you will have a V8 from roughly 2008.

Ferrari 550 Maranello

The 550 Maranello is pretty much the ultimate Ferrari: V12 front engine, rear-wheel drive, electronics still in their infancy and, most importantly, a manual gearbox with the famous grille. A real connoisseur’s car, yours for a minimum of €50,000, which is nothing.

Rolls-Royce Silver Seraph

A little-known model, this sumptuous Roller (is there any other type?) already benefits from BMW’s expertise. Golden silence, opulent treatment and the prestigious emblem. €50,000 gets you this gem.

Lamborghini Murcielago

A symbol of the takeover of the brand by Audi, this Lamborghini combines the best of both worlds: a finish worthy of the price but with its Latin character perfectly preserved. The 580bhp V12 is supersonic. A real supercar, from €80,000.

Maserati Quattroporte

Italian prestige and a legendary name. Under the hood, the mechanics were developed with Ferrari – this may explain the enchanting sound. Prices have been severely slashed now, with some second-hand models at €25,000.

Porsche 911 (996) Turbo

For €35,000 you can treat yourself to one of the most effective sports cars. The turbo-boosted flat-six engine is capable of teasing Ferrari while the all-wheel drive keeps it firmly on the ground.

Corvette C6

The only true American sports car. While the seventh generation has recently been unveiled, the C6 goes for peanuts on the second-hand market. Jump on the opportunity: the 6-litre V8 engine delivers dragster-type performances. From approximately €25,000.

Mercedes S 600

This is the pinnacle of automotive technology. The S-Class is the benchmark in terms of luxury, equipment and comfort. As for the 600 engine, it sublimates all with minimum 500 horsepower V12 engine. A 2002 model could cost you as little as €20,000.

BMW M6

For a 2007 you would probably pay in the region of €35,000. Too much for a second-hand Beemer? Not really, considering the V10, the 500 horsepower (minimum), the F1 roar and the technology.