Once upon a time, the V8 engine ruled the sports car world with its meaty sound and powerful punch. Back in the day, more cylinders meant more power (and more fun), but nowadays, automakers can make that same V8 power with better efficiency out of a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. However, any V8 sports car purists that are still looking for the sweet sound of an eight-cylinder burble and the accompanying neck-snapping torque will be happy to know that they still exist. In fact, here is a shortlist of the cheapest V8 sports cars that you can still buy today.

2021 Chrysler 300S V8 – $42,825

If you like the sound of a V8 engine and would rather feel like you’re sitting in a living room as opposed to a jet fighter cockpit, then the Chrysler 300S V8 could be for you. Auto Guide points out that this large sedan has ample seating for up to five passengers and houses a large 5.7-liter V8 engine that produces 363 hp through its rear wheels. In essence, the Chrysler 300S V8 has plenty of tire-roasting fun for the whole family with excellent comfort to boot.

2022 Dodge Charger R/T – $38,125

If the stately and cushy Chrysler 300 is too plush for you then you can always go with its corporate cousin – the Dodge Charger R/T. The Charger R/T has the same 5.7-liter V8 engine and seating for five, but it also has a more aggressive aesthetic that is representative of its tremendous power. In fact, it even has seven more horsepower than the 300S – 370 hp – and costs a mere $4,700 less. 

2022 Ford Mustang GT – $36,285

Considering the Ford Mustang is America’s favorite muscle car, it’s only natural that it should be equipped with a V8 engine. Fortunately, for less than $40,000, you can pick up a Mustang GT with a 5.0-liter V8 that pumps out 460 hp through the rear wheels and is connected to a six-speed manual transmission. If you need more performance, then you can opt for a separate handling package, however, that will increase the price. Either way, the Mustang GT is a serious V8 sports car bargain.

2022 Dodge Challenger R/T – $36,180

Since V8 engines match well with big burly muscle cars, the Dodge Challenger R/T is a solid pick for a sports coupe. The Challenger R/T is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine (yes, the same V8 as the other two cars) that puts out 375 hp and can be mated to either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic. Of course, we would suggest the former for a proper V8 sportscar experience.

2022 Chevrolet Camaro LT1 – $35,195

Auto Guide notes that the Chevrolet Camaro is currently the cheapest V8-powered car that’s currently for sale and we must say that it’s a bargain. For less than $36,000, you can get an athletic-looking, rear-drive coupe with a large 6.2-liter engine that puts out 455 hp. What’s even better is that it’s available with a six-speed manual transmission and can be upgraded for track use for a little extra coin.

There’s nothing better than the sound of a V8 engine

Whether you need to cushiness of the Chrysler 300 or the rawness of a Chevy Camaro, you’ll get to experience the visceral feeling of stomping the throttle and hearing the sweet sounds of a V8 engine. Although turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines are up and coming, nothing can beat the feeling of eight cylinders being put to work. So if you’re interested in any of the aforementioned cars, you better act quickly before they’re all gone.