German automaker Audi is known for designing and making some of the world’s most impressive and high-performing vehicles. The S4 is Audi’s performance version of its popular A4 sedan, standing in the lineup as the A4’s zippier, wilder little brother. But affordability isn’t always what Audi cars are known for; unless you’re looking for one of the best used sports cars, that is.

Audi makes one of the best used sports cars you can buy for less than $20,000 

Research experts iSeeCars “analyzed over 6.1 million cars from model years 2011 and newer” to find the best used vehicles at the best bargains. Using factors like long-term reliability, safety ratings, and quality of purchase, iSeeCars narrowed down the best used vehicles by both segment and price. Each of the vehicles that made the “best used vehicle” list “can last at least 15 years if they are driven at the average annual mileage.” 

The sports car segment is known for being one of the more-expensive segments, with iSeeCar experts only finding three vehicles for its “Best Used Sports Cars Under $20,000” list.

While the two American-made sports cars found on the list are unsurprisingly affordable, a surprise sports car from Audi tops the list as one of the best used sports car choices. With an average price of $17,848, the 2012 Audi S4 allows used sports car shoppers to get the superiority Audi is known for, without spending top dollar for it.

Why the 2012 Audi S4 should top your used sports car list

The same findings from iSeeCars show that the 2012 Audi S4 is a true bargain. The data shows that “the average used car price for passenger cars is $18,404.” This means that used car shoppers can potentially spend less on an Audi sports car than they would for other less-sporty, lower-performing vehicles.

In fact, CarFax can even find used 2012 Audi S4 models for under $14,000. And don’t let the age fool you, as the 2012 Audi S4 turned out to be one of the best model years in its long history.

Even CarComplaints.com can’t find too much to complain about, stating that overall the Audi S4 sedan is “either not very popular, or it’s very, very good.” And as with all Audi sports cars, popularity isn’t an issue.

The 2012 model year, in particular, currently only has 12 complaints from owners on CarComplaints.com, proving exceptional reliability on a sports car that is nearly a decade old.

While the 2012 Audi S4 proves its reliable performance over time, as well as its tremendous value, the zippy sports car has a lot more to offer to used car shoppers than just a great price tag.

What to expect from the 2012 Audi S4 sports car

According to Edmunds, the 2012 Audi S4 comes with a sportier engine than its bigger brother, the A4. The 3.0-liter supercharged, six-cylinder engine can make an impressive 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. This supercharged power is sent to all the S4’s wheels, making use of Audi’s famous Quattro system.

The S4’s engine is paired to either a standard, manual transmission or an optional, seven-speed, dual-clutch automated manual. The manual Audi S4 can get to 60 miles per hour in a speedy 4.9 seconds and earns an estimated 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

The 2012 S4 has a more aggressive styling inside and out, befitting its sporty nature. The interior comes with all the creature comforts a sports car buyer desires, but owners note that the S4 is definitely geared toward performance.